October 23, 2025

The Chamber joined regional stakeholders on meetings with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) leadership, including Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, Diane Sabatino & Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Trade, Susan Thomas. The first meeting with EAC Sabatino focused on border infrastructure, investment in technology, and pilot programs to continue to facilitate trade and travel across land ports of entry. The agency has invested over $600 million in biometrics and $7 million in hardware nationwide, integrating AI machine learning to help officers enhance inspection. The meeting with EAC Thomas provided an opportunity to dive into trade-specific issues including communication with customs brokers as we navigate constant changes in trade policy.

Staff had a follow up meeting with Sidney Aki, San Diego Director of Field Operations, on next steps for our region to lead a pilot program to expedite processing for cross-border students at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa pedestrian ports of entry. This program will allow students to submit their information in advance, similar to CBX, for facilitated security clearance and significantly reduce their waits every morning on their way to school. Staff connected CBP with UC San Diego, San Diego State University, and Southwestern College, aiming to get the pilot program started as soon as January 2026.