N.Z. Customs to introduce new secure container seal program
Legislative amendments passed by New Zealand’s parliament this week will allow the country’s customs administration to enhance its supply chain security strategy for container seals.
The agency will implement a new system to enable New Zealand exporters to place their goods under customs control from the point that goods are packed and secured using a agency-approved seal.
“It is a voluntary scheme, but participation will enable both the exporter and Customs to give an assurance to overseas authorities that the goods are protected from tampering,” said the New Zealand Customs Service in a statement Friday.
Use of the customs-approved seals will identify goods that are part of the agency’s “Secure Export Partnership” program.
“The seal provides physical evidence that the goods are secured and there has been no tampering from the point of packing through to the port of loading,” the agency said. “These goods will also carry a warning notice stating that they are under customs control and customs may be able to exercise certain enforcement powers in relation to them.”
Vehicles used to transport containerized cargo under customs control may be detained and searched, the agency added.