CBP Wants to Incentivize Green Trade
CBP wants to develop incentives for green trade, possibly by reviewing authorized economic operator programs, and said that its initial green trade strategy, published June 28, is not the limit of its aspirations. "The goal is to identify incentives that aim to reduce carbon emissions, encourage the use of eco-friendly modes of transport, and support adoption of technologies and practices with positive environmental impacts. Incentives would encourage green trade practices while avoiding negative impacts on the flow of legitimate cargo," the strategy says.
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CBP said it will collaborate with the World Customs Organization and the EU, and plans on "engaging with our industry partners, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions to solicit ideas and perspectives."
It said it does not see the need for a new rulemaking now, but could in the future. "Examples provided in the Green Trade Strategy are illustrative starting points and should not be considered a comprehensive list or the limit of our aspirations," the strategy says.
CBP said it also will prioritize enforcement of environmental laws in conjunction with partner government agencies, including environmental provisions in trade agreements.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is negotiating with the EU on a mechanism that would disadvantage steel with higher embedded carbon levels.
The EU also is moving toward emphasizing the environment in its trade deals, Politico Europe reported, saying that the European Parliament has signaled "it would only sign off on future trade deals if the sustainable development provisions were strengthened."