Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino, a senior official with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), posted a series of updates on her Twitter account in early May 2026 addressing travel preparedness, agricultural inspection, and recent enforcement actions.
On May 6, 2026, Sabatino encouraged travelers arriving for the upcoming FIFA World Cup to prepare their documentation in advance. She stated: "Be the real MVP and have your documents ready for CBP when you arrive for the @FIFAWorldCup 2026. CBP is ready to ensure a safe, secure, and smooth entry process. Learn more: https://t.co/oAfWd0f5wl #CBPxFIFA2026 https://t.co/9dlcoq8UeD". The post highlights CBP's efforts to streamline entry procedures as the United States prepares to host an influx of international visitors for the tournament.
The following day, May 7, 2026, Sabatino emphasized the importance of proper wood packaging inspection to protect U.S. agriculture from invasive pests. She wrote: "Inspection of wood packaging is critical; untreated wood risks pests harming US ag. Recently, @DFOFlorida officers found a rubber ISPM-15 mark & stamp pad being used on wood pallets in a warehouse, requiring approval by @Nappo_org. Investigation ongoing for possible fraud. https://t.co/8YVYKxfwr4". This incident underscores regulatory requirements designed to prevent the introduction of foreign pests through imported materials.
On May 8, 2026, Sabatino shared details about a recent agricultural interception at Atlanta’s port of entry involving a canine detection unit. She reported: ".@DFOAtlanta K9 Taz recently alerted to a bag from Ecuador. The passenger declared having tomatoes, ice cream beans, mandarins, & avocados, but CBP ag specialists discovered several other prohibited items. All prohibited items were destroyed. https://t.co/FypMjAFrl2".
These messages reflect CBP’s dual mission of facilitating lawful trade and travel while safeguarding American agriculture and biosecurity interests through enforcement actions and public outreach.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines (https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/frequently-asked-questions), travelers are required to present valid documents upon arrival in the United States—a policy reinforced ahead of large international events such as the FIFA World Cup.
Wood packaging materials entering the United States must comply with International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM-15) regulations (https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry/cargo-security/agriculture/compliance/wpm), which aim to prevent pest introductions that could harm domestic crops or forests.
CBP regularly inspects agricultural products brought into the country to prevent prohibited fruits, vegetables, or plants from introducing harmful pests or diseases (https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/agriculture). Detection canines play a key role in these inspections by alerting officers to undeclared or banned items.
