Let’s look at a best practice involving interdiction and disruption. The Federal Government requires businesses that engage in international trade to submit import/export data. This helps law enforcement interdict illicit goods before they enter the United States, while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel.

Since 2006, some 48 agencies, led by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), have worked to build and implement the International Trade Data System, which establishes a single electronic platform for import/export data. By centralizing, automating, and integrating data-collection processes, the system allows for easier identification of items of concern, while reducing the reporting burden for industry.

At the same time, this system meets the critical task of interdicting conveyances, cargo, and persons associated with a potential threat or act.