CBP Updates FAQs on CEEs, Describes Broker Outreach Progress
CBP Updated its frequently asked questions for the Centers for Excellence and Expertise. Among the new information within the FAQs is an update on the agency's outreach with brokers to develop a defined role within the CEEs and plans for the opening of the recently announced CEEs scheduled to open in FY 2013.
(See ITT's Online Archives 12112719 for summary of the six new CEEs scheduled to open in FY 2013.)
Updated or new questions include:
What role will Brokers play in the Centers? CBP established a Broker Working Group (BWG) comprised of representatives from the brokerage community and CBP personnel in November 2012 to address brokers’ vital role in the Centers. The BWG will develop procedural guidance for the trade community, cultivate the roles and responsibilities of the brokers as they relate to processing trade in a virtual environment, and establish protocols for communications with the Centers. The BWG will have regular recurring meetings to address issues, promote operational efficiencies, and support sustained bi-directional education efforts between the Centers and the brokerage community. Brokers are essential partners not just for the Centers, but for all of CBP’s trade transformation efforts.
When will the FY 2013 Centers open? CBP is finalizing the schedule at this time, with the intention of opening the next Center in the early part of 2013. All of the six Centers will be open by the end of the Fiscal Year. CBP will publish a test notice in the Federal Register regarding the new Centers as soon as the information is available.
Will CBP open any additional Centers after FY 2013? Once the new Centers are open, CBP will have Centers that cover the full spectrum of imported products. At the conclusion of the implementation of the ten Centers, CBP will conduct a comprehensive review and seek recommendations for adjustments to the industry groups, and if necessary, for the possible creation of additional Centers.
(See ITT's Online Archives 12052328 for summary of the previous FAQs update.)