41 Facts About CBP (Customs And Border Protection)

What is CBP?

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a crucial agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It plays a significant role in safeguarding the United States' borders and facilitating lawful international trade and travel.

1. CBP was established in 2003 as part of the DHS, following the September 11 attacks.
2. It is the largest federal law enforcement agency in the United States.
3. CBP's mission includes preventing terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the country.
4. The agency also focuses on securing and facilitating trade and travel while enforcing hundreds of U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws.

CBP's Structure and Workforce

Understanding the structure and workforce of CBP helps in appreciating the scale and complexity of its operations.

5. CBP employs over 60,000 people, including officers, agents, and support staff.
6. The agency is divided into several key components: Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol, Air and Marine Operations (AMO), and Office of Trade.
7. OFO is responsible for securing U.S. ports of entry and facilitating lawful trade and travel.
8. The U.S. Border Patrol focuses on securing the borders between ports of entry.
9. AMO uses aircraft and marine vessels to patrol and secure the nation's borders.
10. The Office of Trade ensures compliance with trade laws and regulations.

CBP's Role in Trade

CBP plays a vital role in regulating and facilitating international trade, ensuring that goods entering the U.S. comply with all laws and regulations.

11. CBP processes nearly $2.4 trillion in imports annually.
12. The agency collects approximately $80 billion in duties, taxes, and fees each year.
13. CBP enforces trade laws to protect American businesses from unfair competition and intellectual property theft.
14. The agency also works to prevent the importation of counterfeit and unsafe goods.

CBP's Role in Immigration

Immigration enforcement is another critical function of CBP, ensuring that individuals entering the U.S. do so legally.

15. CBP officers inspect over 1 million travelers entering the U.S. each day.
16. The agency uses advanced technology and intelligence to identify potential threats among travelers.
17. CBP also processes asylum claims and works to prevent human trafficking.
18. The agency collaborates with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to enforce immigration laws.

Technology and Innovation in CBP

CBP leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance its capabilities in border security, trade facilitation, and immigration enforcement.

19. The agency uses biometric technology, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, to verify travelers' identities.
20. CBP employs non-intrusive inspection technology, like X-ray and gamma-ray imaging, to scan cargo and vehicles for contraband.
21. The agency uses unmanned aerial systems (drones) to monitor remote areas of the border.
22. CBP's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system streamlines the import and export process for businesses.

CBP's Efforts in Combating Drug Trafficking

CBP plays a significant role in the fight against drug trafficking, intercepting illegal drugs before they enter the U.S.

23. The agency seized over 1.5 million pounds of narcotics in 2020.
24. CBP collaborates with international partners to disrupt drug trafficking networks.
25. The agency uses canines trained to detect drugs, explosives, and other contraband.
26. CBP's Air and Marine Operations conduct aerial and maritime patrols to intercept drug shipments.

CBP's Community Engagement

CBP engages with communities to build trust and foster cooperation in its mission to protect the nation.

27. The agency conducts outreach programs to educate the public about its mission and operations.
28. CBP participates in community events and forums to address concerns and gather feedback.
29. The agency works with local businesses and trade organizations to facilitate lawful trade and travel.
30. CBP's Border Community Liaison Program aims to improve communication and collaboration with border communities.

Challenges Faced by CBP

Despite its critical role, CBP faces numerous challenges in fulfilling its mission.

31. The agency must balance security with the facilitation of lawful trade and travel.
32. CBP faces resource constraints, including staffing shortages and budget limitations.
33. The agency must adapt to evolving threats, such as cyber-attacks and emerging technologies used by criminals.
34. CBP's work can be physically and emotionally demanding, leading to high levels of stress among its workforce.

CBP's Training and Development

To effectively carry out its mission, CBP invests in the training and development of its personnel.

35. New CBP officers undergo rigorous training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC).
36. The agency offers ongoing training and professional development opportunities for its employees.
37. CBP's Leadership Institute provides advanced training for current and future leaders within the agency.
38. The agency emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and mental resilience for its workforce.

CBP's International Partnerships

CBP collaborates with international partners to enhance global security and facilitate lawful trade and travel.

39. The agency works with foreign governments to share intelligence and best practices.
40. CBP participates in international organizations, such as the World Customs Organization, to promote global trade security.
41. The agency provides training and technical assistance to foreign customs and border agencies.

Final Thoughts on CBP

CBP plays a crucial role in keeping our borders secure and facilitating lawful trade and travel. From its origins in 1789 to its current status as a key agency under the Department of Homeland Security, CBP has evolved to meet the challenges of a changing world. With over 60,000 employees, advanced technology, and a commitment to protecting the nation, CBP ensures the safety and security of the United States. Understanding these facts about CBP gives us a better appreciation of the agency's responsibilities and the hard work of its dedicated personnel. Whether it's intercepting illegal substances, preventing human trafficking, or facilitating international trade, CBP's mission is vital to the nation's well-being. So next time you travel or receive an international package, remember the important work CBP does behind the scenes.