Canada Border Services Agency Signs Mutual Recognition Arrangements with Hong Kong and New Zealand

Shantel Harris -
W a s h i n g t o n ,   D C ,   U S A - 

Credit: Canada Border Services Agency

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) today announced the signing of two Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) with the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department and with the New Zealand Customs Service regarding their respective Trusted Trader programs.

The signings took place on the margins of the World Customs Organization Council Sessions in Brussels, Belgium.

Trusted Trader programs enhance the security and integrity of the global supply chain through the establishment of customs to business partnerships and by providing streamlined border processes to pre-approved, low-risk traders. MRAs not only enhance supply chain security, but strengthens Canada’s economic competitiveness by facilitating trade at the border.

Each MRA signifies that the CBSA’s Partners in Protection program members will be recognized by, and receive trade facilitation benefits from, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department’s Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme and the New Zealand Customs Service’s Secure Exports Scheme (SES) program, respectively. The CBSA will reciprocate by providing similar benefits to members of Hong Kong’s AEO programme and New Zealand’s SES program.

Credit: Canada Border Services Agency

Border management is a shared international responsibility. Threats and opportunities arising from global migration and trade are dealt with most effectively by working together. Expanding the international network of accredited low-risk companies allows customs administrations to focus on targeting shipments of higher or unknown risk.

John Ossowski, President of the Canada Border Services Agency said:

“The CBSA is a fully engaged member of the World Customs Organization, regularly sharing best practices and lessons learned with our international partners, such as Hong Kong and New Zealand. Putting in place Mutual Recognition Arrangements with international partners is a reflection of the great cooperation between customs administrations and represents a major component of the CBSA’s International Strategic Framework to advance global border management.”

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