Risk Identification, Partnerships with Trade Among DHS Focuses, Says Napolitano

The Department of Homeland Security must work closely with trade to develop innovate and efficient processes while ensuring the security of the global supply chain, said DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano Nov. 27, speaking at the CBP East Coast Trade Symposium. A better understanding and ability to identify risks in trade will facilitate the trade process, she said.

A better focus of time on the greatest security risks will improve the process overall, Napolitano said. The agency continues to work toward the goal of doubling exports by the end of 2014, said Napolitano. Effective trade processing and security aren't opposing values, and quality security practices reduce wait times and improve the global economy, she said. DHS is working closely with other governments to further expedite legitimate trade, and certifying strong security practices for cargo ends up saving the industry money, she said.

“Economic security and homeland security are inextricably linked,” said Napolitano. “DHS is committed to working with public and private sector partners, both in the U.S. and around the world, to secure the global trade and travel networks that are essential to our economy.”