The BTA’s work can be divided into three broad themes. The themes encompass all of the multi-faceted issues and challenges that face the policy staff, committees, and board of directors.

Balancing Security, Trade and Travel at the Border

In a time of heightened security concerns around the world, the BTA’s grassroots members actively engage top-level policymakers while seeking solutions for improving the security challenges for government while facilitating trade and travel across international borders. Our advocacy issues are among the most challenging issues for NAFTA countries today, including border security, C-TPAT, infrastructure and travel protocols. The BTA strives for policies that strike a balance between national and economic security.

Improving Quality of Life in Border Communities

Since 1986, the BTA has served as the voice of border communities along the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders. Improving the quality of life in border communities is a top priority for the BTA and we have consistently searched for solutions to address the many unique and diverse challenges created by the tremendous growth in commerce at our borders. The BTA has a strong record of promoting the concerns of border communities to federal policymakers.

Keeping NAFTA Competitive and Efficient in a Global Economy

Trade between Canada, Mexico and the United States has nearly tripled since the adoption of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Growing competition both within the NAFTA countries and globally pressure companies and governments to develop their effectiveness and meet the rising demands. Non-tariff barriers to trade such as delays at our ports of entry, caused by inadequate infrastructure or heightened security, cost our economies both jobs and money. The BTA is a leading advocate of solutions to solve the critical trade challenges facing NAFTA countries.