CBP guidance seeks to address supply chain disruption resilience

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently issued new guidance to address bolstered supply chain disruption initiatives.

Cyber Incident Guidance for Customs Brokers would aid customs brokers in preparation, response, and recovery regarding cyberattacks, from proactively installing plans and preventative IT controls to resuming normal business operations upon system remediation.

“Preparing for a disaster means thinking about the worst things that could happen, or even things that are just disruptive, and having a plan in place to handle each of those scenarios,” Office of Trade Executive Assistant Commissioner AnnMarie R. Highsmith said. “The time for preparedness is now.”

The CPB supply chain resiliency focus targets establishing clear expectations for industry and government actors on processes, procedures, and responsibilities in the face of man-made supply chain disruptions.

CBP has cited recent events, which have resulted in significant commercial and consumer activity disruptions that include personal protective equipment shortages, baby formula, and other critical goods.

The guidance includes utilizing, updating, and validating the efficacy of IT controls; maintaining current Interconnection Security Agreements (ISA); protecting data; developing a plan for communicating with stakeholders about cybersecurity incidents; managing risk; and developing a plan to verify client’s Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements absent system access.