CBTS recently completed the first phase of a Borders of the Future study designed to examine the challenges and opportunities facing U.S. border management in light of post-9/11 security measures, globalization, and increasingly strained and extended supply chains. The Center partnered with MIT and the Migration Policy Institute (MPI) to gather information from port operators around the world about innovative strategies used to enhance the effectiveness of sea–, air-, and land-ports-of-entry operations while ensuring and even improving national security. In the process, the MIT/MPI study identified opportunities that could leverage advanced technologies, improved data sharing, and greater collaboration with the private sector to streamline cargo movement processes and increase compliance with ever-evolving trade regulations.
The study found that the challenge to find a balance between securing borders and facilitating lawful trade is universal. The U.S. is not alone in seeking to find this balance as other nations have acted to identify and implement effective risk management strategies through legislation and the adoption of innovative technologies. The study found that the future of border management around the world lies in the ability to use accurate data and advanced analytics. By using technology to gather and analyze information on shipments, customs officials can enhance their targeting capabilities and reduce inspection burdens on low-risk goods. However, product data alone is not sufficient, the rise in trade violations, including forced labor, and use of energy provided by sanctioned nations necessitates the use initiative-taking approaches that require gathering and verifying supply chain data from companies to ensure compliance.
The study also found that a more optimal balance in security and facilitation of commercial interests can be found through collaboration between federal agencies, private sector stakeholders, and foreign trade partners. Data-driven decision making depends on more collaborative approaches to border management. In particular, collaboration between government agencies and private sector firms is essential for effective border management.
The first phase of the MIT/MPI study underscored the importance of adapting to new challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing global landscape, suggesting that the future of border management hinges on a strategic, data-driven approach that engages all stakeholders effectively. However, even as data-driven approaches will help reduce congestion at borders, aging infrastructure will continue to present challenges. As technology evolves, the infrastructure at ports must adapt accordingly. Investing in systems and technologies that facilitate better data processing may be as crucial to our security as upgrading physical infrastructure. If you would like to learn more about the Borders of the Future study, please visit the homepage of CBTS website [https://cbts.tamu.edu/] where you will find a complete summary of the first phase is just a click away.