Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 138

Essay Example The initiative was launched in 2004 for the companies who agree to follow minimum security procedures. As per this initiative, the companies need to allow audits to ensure that the security procedures are followed. The C-TPAT also enforces on importers that their vendors, suppliers and manufacturers are undertaking security audits on their businesses. The Container Security Initiative (CSI) is a Customs program initiated by the US government to inspect high-risk cargo at the foreign ports before shipping into the US. This necessitates on foreign ports to use tamper-free containers and screen all high-risk containers. Currently, 37 foreign ports follow CSI procedure of cargo security that constitute 60 percent of all the cargo shipped into the US each year. European Union cargo security rules did exist since 2003; however, the security rules and procedures have been further augmented making it effective from April 2010. The European Union has initiated air cargo security that aims at establishing the security control of consignments and securing supply chain. Accordingly, the cargo not handled by regulated authorities will be physically screened before its loading into aircraft. Various methods are used such as X-rays, physical checks, sniffer dogs or trace-detection. Every product must pass through customs where a multilayered risk management approach is applied that include an "Authorised Economic Operator" (AEO) program for traders. All members will have detailed monitoring system and regular checks on known consignors (European Commission, 2010). The secure supply chain in the European Union is identified as known freight forwarders that fall in the category of regulated agents. They are obligated to meet strict standards of controls such as background checks on staff, training aspects and legal compliance. This is to facilitate faster clearance without additional security controls such as screening. By end 2013,