Fact Sheet

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September 2002

The Smart Border Declaration

In the wake of the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, Canadian and U.S. government departments and agencies have worked in partnership to improve security and services on the shared border. Enhancing the security of the border, while facilitating the legitimate flow of people and goods, are objectives for both countries. Formal agreement on these mutual objectives came on December 12, 2001, with the signing of the Smart Border Declaration by Deputy Prime Minister John Manley and Tom Ridge, U.S. Homeland Security Director.

This blueprint-the Smart Border Declaration-outlines a set of initiatives called the 30-point Action Plan. Both Canada and the United States continue to work together on this Action Plan. The secure flow of people, the secure flow of goods, a secure infrastructure, and the co-ordination and sharing of information in the enforcement of these objectives have been and continue to be the foundation of the Smart Border. Having reached agreement in principle on each item, we are now designing and implementing joint programs.

The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency is working collaboratively with the United States Customs Service, the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service and Citizenship and Immigration Canada. The CCRA has the lead responsibility for eight of the initiatives outlined in the 30-point Action Plan. Making the following eight initiatives happen is a priority for the CCRA:

1. Single Alternative Inspection System
2. Air Pre-clearance
3. Advance Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record
4. Ferry Terminals Review
5. Harmonized Commercial Processing
6. Clearance Away from the Border
7. Customs Data Exchange
8. In-transit Container Targeting at Seaports

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