WESCCON 2023 brought together industry experts, government officials, and logistics professionals to discuss critical topics and challenges facing the world of international trade and supply chain management. The event featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, and open forums addressing issues such as the opioid crisis, forced labor, green trade initiatives, and more.
Troy Miller’s Keynote: Addressing the Opioid Crisis
Troy Miller, Acting CBP Commissioner, delivered a keynote address focusing on the opioid crisis. Key points from his presentation included:
- Opioid Overdose Deaths: Miller highlighted the staggering number of overdose deaths, with a significant portion attributed to fentanyl overdoses.
- Increase in Fentanyl Seizures: Since Fiscal Year 2017, there has been a drastic 900% increase in fentanyl seizures, reaching a staggering 27,000 pounds in FY2023 alone.
- Small Package E-commerce: Small package e-commerce has become a major entry point for the illegal distribution of pill machines and precursors, contributing to the opioid crisis.
- CBP’s Efforts: CBP has been actively involved in addressing these issues by clearing a substantial number of de minimis shipments at various ports, with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) clearing a significant percentage of these shipments.
- COAC De Minimis Working Group: CBP is working through the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) De Minimis Working Group to combat various issues, including intellectual property concerns, counterfeits, and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) matters.
- Forced Labor: The topic of forced labor was discussed, emphasizing the need for addressing this critical issue in international trade.
Green Trade Strategy Update
The green trade strategy update focused on environmental sustainability and included the following highlights:
- CBP’s Green Trade Initiative: CBP hosted the first Green Trade Innovation & Incentives Forum, initiating discussions on cross-sectoral opportunities for sustainable trade practices.
- Emissions Reduction: Notably, processing times have significantly decreased, with a reduction from 2 minutes to just 30 seconds for 99% of daily truck processing, contributing to reduced emissions.
- Continuing Education for Brokers: A final rule governing continuing education was discussed, requiring brokers to remain knowledgeable about laws and issues, earn 36 hours of continuing education every triennial period, and certify it as part of their status report. CBP plans to offer these educational opportunities at no cost.
Forced Labor Panel
The Forced Labor panel, featuring our own Vince Iacopella, Executive Vice President of Growth and Strategy, delved into the issue of forced labor in the global supply chain. Discussions highlighted the prevalence of forced labor, particularly in the apparel industry, and the challenges CBP faces in ensuring supply chain transparency. In the discussion CBP spoke about supply chain mapping and transparency counting toward the due diligence mandate in the UFLPA law. CBP discussed a potential Trusted Trader program for importers using tools that work toward due diligence.
Future of Logistics
The “Future of Logistics” panel discussed labor concerns, the aging workforce, and the impact of unforeseen events like natural disasters on the supply chain. The importance of cybersecurity and data sharing in the logistics industry was also a key topic.
Trucking Panel
The Trucking Panel focused on the challenges and opportunities in the trucking industry, particularly regarding clean fleets, regulation compliance, and the transition to zero emissions vehicles.
Attorney Panel
The Attorney Panel featured discussions on topics such as record-keeping, the power of attorney, data sharing, and the use of artificial intelligence in the legal field. The panel also highlighted the importance of a paper trail and responding to CBP’s requests for information effectively.
West Coast Port Panel
The West Coast Port Panel included representatives from various West Coast ports and industry associations discussing topics like port capacity, infrastructure investments, and the importance of data interoperability in improving the flow of goods through ports.
WESCCON 2023 provided a comprehensive platform for discussing critical issues in international trade and logistics. The event underscored the need for proactive measures in addressing challenges such as the opioid crisis, forced labor, and environmental sustainability, as well as the importance of collaboration among industry stakeholders and government agencies to ensure the efficiency and security of the global supply chain. Questions about the conference, the topics, or Alba Wheels Up, reach out to us today.
