What is the role of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)?

The role of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) primarily involves enforcing customs laws and regulations. This encompasses ensuring that imported goods adhere to U.S. laws and regulations, which includes inspecting shipments, collecting tariffs, and preventing illegal smuggling. CBP also plays a critical role in protecting the United States from threats such as terrorism and the trafficking of illicit drugs or goods. By enforcing these laws, CBP helps to maintain the integrity of the U.S. economy and protect public safety.

While promoting international trade, collecting consumer taxes, and facilitating travel between countries are related functions, they are not the core responsibility of CBP. Instead, CBP’s primary focus is on the enforcement of laws at the borders, making it essential to the regulation of cross-border commerce and personal travel. This enforcement job includes a wide range of activities aimed at ensuring compliance with applicable laws, thus upholding the security and economic interests of the United States.