September 23, 2020

The temporary restrictions on non-essential travel across shared ports of entry between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico have been extended to October 21. The Chamber recently met with U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Christopher Landau and shared concerns about the impact border restrictions and fluctuating border wait times have on our cross-border economy. The impact extends beyond economic as increased border waits pose a risk to public health through increased air pollution and now during the pandemic, creates a scenario of increased risk of exposure. If businesses can operate safely with strict health protocols, the border should as well. An effective way to mitigate the spread of this disease across our border is to implement a coordinated binational effort around social distancing and mask wearing.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reopened Trusted Traveler Program enrollment centers at the Otay Mesa and Calexico East Ports of Entry. Interviews for conditionally approved Global Entry, SENTRI, and FAST applicants are available by appointment only and must be scheduled online. For more information including enrollment center hours of operation, visit CBP’s website.

To help facilitate border crossings for our workforce, the Chamber is working with CBP to organize mobile enrollment events at work sites. Applications submitted at these events will be reviewed within a month and granted expedited interviews. If you are interested in offering this at your company, please contact the Chamber.