An on-terminal United States Customs and Border Protection office has opened at the Port of Wilmington. North Carolina Ports leaders welcomed CBP officials to celebrate the opening of the office which will support the agency’s efforts in the security of cargo movements through the Wilmington terminal.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the United States Customs and Border Protection office, held Jan. 28.
“We are excited to welcome Customs and Border Protection to its new home at the Port of Wilmington,” said Paul J. Cozza, executive director of North Carolina Ports. “CBP has long played an important role in the safety and security of our facilities. This new space puts CBP closer to their responsibilities and allows the agency to sufficiently fulfill its duties which are critically important as cargo volumes grow through North Carolina’s ports.”
“The completion of this project highlights the partnership between U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the North Carolina State Ports Authority,” added Scott J. Opalka, port director for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “We have a common interest in ensuring the security and economic prosperity of the United States and with the space provided by NC Ports.”
Customs and Border Protection provides border security including daily, port-specific operations like clearing cargo, collecting duties and other monies associated with imports, as well as enforcing import and export laws and regulations, and performing agricultural inspections to protect the United States from potential carriers of animal and plant pests or diseases.
The new offices also feature the necessary utilities, equipment, furnishings and security to support the Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team, which allows CBP to adequately provide port services.
