Costs for implementing United States ISO transportation security internationally, particularly in developing nations, could lead to a drop in worldwide trade flows of between 2% and 3%, according to an analysis of various maritime intermodal container security initiatives.
The analysis by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development was a result of an examination of the measures introduced by the United States after the terrorists attacks on New York City and Washington DC.
Released in April 2004, the analysis addresses the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, Container Security Initiative, 24-hour advanced manifest rule, and International Ship and Port Facility Security. Issues examined include implementation costs, delays and disruptions, difficulty in implementation of diverse and detailed requirements, and competitive imbalances and marginalization.