The recent 2014-midterm elections have changed the political face of the U.S. Congress for the next two years while also creating opportunities for the forwarding community. The new year will likely bring a new attempt at providing Trade Promotion Authority to the president, allowing the administration to pursue two vital trade agreements, one with the U.S. and Asia-Pacific nations and the other with the U.S. and the European Union.
An updated Trade Promotion Authority agreement lets our trading partners know that U.S. negotiators have the support of Congress in reaching trade agreements. The pacts allow our country the ability to compete in the global economy while leveling the playing field between state-owned enterprises and our private firms. In addition to bringing jobs to the United States through more manufacturing opportunities, the agreements also will increase trade between nations. This trade activity will benefit the shipping community by increasing air and ocean cargo volumes.
As shipping activity between nations increases, so does the need for increased cargo security. The Airforwarders Association has been working with Customs and the Transportation Security Administration in developing advanced data programs for shipment risk targeting. Our work continues with the development of the Air Cargo Advanced Screening initiative as we continue to participate on federal advisory committees in consultation with the TSA, Customs and the Department of Commerce. Making sure advanced data regimes between countries are harmonized in accordance with World Customs Organization guidelines is essential in achieving a smooth flow of commerce and consistent targeting standards between nations.
The Airforwarders Association agenda for 2015 includes advocating for the use of private canines in screening cargo under the Certified Cargo Screening Program and working with the TSA in implementing its upcoming forwarder air cargo security program change. We are also focusing on trucking-related issues, including ways to improve our highway infrastructure and solving the driver shortage.
Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarders Association