 | MEMORANDUM TO: IBM Suppliers
While security has always been a focus area within IBM, the continued threat of global terrorism necessitates that firms doing business with IBM, especially those shipping goods and providing services, increase security as assets move through the supply chain.
The United States Customs Service introduced new supply chain security measures and programs several months ago, including the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). C-TPAT is a joint government and trade initiative created with the intent to strengthen the physical security practices of the overall supply chain through cooperative measures. The World Customs Organization recently adopted a resolution calling on its 161 member-countries to develop a global strategy for safeguarding supply chains, thus making the effort and messages on security truly global.
C-TPAT efforts are underway today. IBM has pledged full cooperation with this initiative. As a C-TPAT participant, IBM is assessing its own security practices. As an IBM supplier, you also have a role to play in ensuring the security of the supply chain. We are asking IBM's suppliers to assess, and enhance if necessary, their security processes in the following areas recommended by U.S. Customs: Physical Security, Access Control, Procedural Security, Personnel Security, Education and Awareness Training. Guidelines for establishing, improving, or amending supply chain security procedures are available on the U.S. Customs Web site, under Security Recommendation. Adherence to the C-TPAT security recommendations is critical to strengthening security for all supply chain members. Your assistance in this endeavor is required.
Global Procurement, in conjunction with the IBM Import Compliance office, will be monitoring the supply chain security issue and will advise our suppliers of any new developments in this area. If you have any questions, please contact your procurement representative or Kay Ryan-Cade, at 303-924-8707 (kryan@us.ibm.com).
Thank you for your cooperation.
EDD/Original Signed By:
John M. Paterson
Chief Procurement Officer, Global Procurement
Route 100, M/D #2268
Somers, NY 10589
(914) 766-2750; 8-826-2750
John Paterson/Somers/IBM@IBMUS |
