Commissioner Bersin Addresses Exporter/Importer Conference

(CBP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Alan Bersin... spoke to members of the American Association of Exporters and Importers at their 89th annual conference, which was held in New York City.

Commissioner Bersin began his comments by noting that this was his first speech to this audience as commissioner and thanked all in attendance before discussing one of his early priorities. “This morning I would like to talk candidly with you about repairing and building our relationship together. That is why I promised to speak at this important event to demonstrate my commitment to you,” said Bersin.

While the security of the United States and its people are of primary concern, Bersin spoke of strong goal of promoting American economic competitiveness throughout the world, elevating the U.S. economy.

As he briefly described his background, Bersin noted that he had been out of the law enforcement arena for 10 years, but was reinvigorated to be part of this organization. He said that CBP is still in its infancy, but with an enormous responsibility to the American public, of securing the U. S. from terrorism and other that would do the nation harm while assuring the flow of trade and international travel.

Commissioner Bersin stressed the importance of participating and fully engaging in programs such as the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism and various trusted traveler and known shipper programs. He explained his “90/10” philosophy, saying that 90% of the problems are incurred by only 10% of the importers or exporters.