A recent article in the LA Times talks about how WalMart may be lobbying for reduced port security in order to keep profits up. The union blames WalMart for the lack of increased port security.

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (a lobbying group of which WalMart is one of the largest members) opposes smart containers, which have wireless sensors to monitor for signs of tampering, and electronic seals because the association claims that the technologies are not completely reliable. According to the article, the association fights a slew of other techniques, including adding additional inspections, to increase port security too.

The trade association cautioned Congress against requiring use of "smart containers" and electronic seals for cargo entering U.S. ports, fought efforts to require outside inspections of its members' supply-chain security claims and opposed container-handling fees to fund better port security, the report said.

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-walport6apr06,1,7249250.story?coll=la-headlines-business

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