December 9, 2019 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently announced the signing of two Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) with Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department and with New Zealand Customs Service regarding their respective Trusted Trader programs.
Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) expand the international trade network of accredited low-risk companies. An MRA between the CBSA and other customs administrations regarding the Partners in Protection (PIP) and compatible customs-trade partnership programs means that:
- both countries apply similar security standards and site validation practices when approving companies for membership in their respective programs, and
- both countries recognize each other’s members and may grant them similar benefits.
MRAs allow government customs administrations to work together to improve their ability to target high risk shipments while expediting legitimate cargo. To enhance cross-border security, the CBSA has signed MRAs recognizing the compatibility of its PIP program with the foreign Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs.
Learn more on the PIP program and benefits of PIP Membership.