Strategy for Global Supply Chain Security
During the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland last week, US Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano revealed the US administration’s National Strategy for Global Supply Chain Security. This strategy for global supply chain security is aimed at strengthening the global supply chain in order to protect the welfare and interests of the American people and secure the nation’s economic prosperity. Part of this new strategy also pushes for trading partners in Europe and Asia to tighten security for cargo, including an agreement by all on inspection and information sharing for shipments moving in and out of each country.
According a press release issued by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), “the National Strategy for Global Supply Chain Security outlines clear goals to promote the efficient and secure movement of goods and foster a resilient supply chain system. It also provides guidance for the US government and crucial domestic, international, public and private stakeholders who share a common interest in the security and resiliency of the global supply chain.”
Within the National Strategy for Global Supply Chain Security, there are two main goals:
- Promote the efficient and secure movement of goods – the US Government will seek to resolve threats early, improve verification and detection capabilities, enhance security of infrastructure and conveyances, and maximize the flow of legitimate trade
- Foster a resilient supply chain – the US Government will seek to mitigate systemic vulnerability and promote trade resumption policies and practices
The Obama Administration is asking all federal agencies and departments to report back to him within one year on the progress of their efforts and plans for future initiatives. DHS and the US Department of State will be conducting a six month effort to collect feedback and specific recommendations on how to implement the Strategy in a cost effective and collaborative manner.
