Chamber Backs CBP Field Operations Strategy
The Chamber praised CBP's Office of Field Operations strategy for 2026–2030 and its focus on protecting lawful travel and trade. It noted that international visitors spent $181 billion in the U.S. in 2024 and that OFO processed $3.6 trillion in import cargo and 380 million traveler crossings in FY 2025. The Chamber urged CBP to use intelligence-based targeting and risk-based decisions while avoiding policies that delay legitimate travelers and traders.
The Chamber’s letter, signed by immigration policy vice president Patrick Shen and addressed to OFO’s executive assistant commissioner, Diane J. Sabatino, endorses CBP’s 2026–2030 field operations blueprint. It cites 2024 international visitor spending of $181 billion and a travel sector contributing almost $3 trillion in economic output.
In fiscal 2025, OFO handled $3.6 trillion in imported goods and 380 million traveler crossings, while intercepting 206,000 inadmissible people and over 504,000 pounds of illegal drugs. The Chamber asks CBP to direct resources through intelligence and risk assessment, expand partnerships, adopt automation, and standardize port operations.
The Chamber’s stance may influence how CBP balances security screening with travel and trade facilitation. If risk-informed screening is expanded, frequent business travelers, tourists, shippers, and port workers could see shorter waits and more predictable cargo processing. Conversely, any perception of uneven scrutiny may affect some travelers or importers. The broader public could benefit from stronger interdiction of illicit goods, though operational choices may determine whether economic and security goals reinforce each other.