Thursday, June 02, 2005

Mark this day if you care about supply chain security

June 23rd is going to mark a watershed event in the supply chain industry. The clever directors at the World Customs Organization are going to ratify a supply chain security framework for the global trade (actually 166 countries, representing 98% of global trade), but who's counting.

The WCO Framework is similar to that of the US constitutional amendments in that its requirements allow for interpretation and flexibility. This is the right approach. Each of the 166 member countries have domestic laws that also have to be considered. Plus, if a requirement required significant funding, some countries cannot afford to comply. So supply chain security is not a one size fits all solution, but this Framework at the very least makes sure everyone is trying on the same garment.

To take a look at the 17 standards go to: WCO Website

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