Washington — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has released its operational statistics for January 2026, marking one full year under President Donald J. Trump’s renewed border security policies. According to CBP leadership, the United States is now experiencing the most secure border environment in modern history.
CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott highlighted the unprecedented results achieved over the past nine months. “For the ninth consecutive month, CBP has delivered historic results—Border Patrol apprehensions are down 96% from the previous administration’s monthly average,” he said. “This historic reduction reflects the dedication of our agents and officers to securing our borders, protecting our communities, and upholding the rule of law.”
Historic Declines in Illegal Crossings
January 2026 recorded 34,626 total encounters nationwide, a figure 91% lower than the peak of 370,883 recorded during the Biden administration. Although encounters rose 13% from December 2025, they remain 58% below January 2025 levels. On average, CBP processed 1,117 encounters per day, compared to 2,628 per day a year earlier.
Along the southwest border, the impact of enforcement policies is even more pronounced. CBP reported 9,726 encounters, an 84% decrease from January 2025. Border Patrol agents apprehended 6,070 individuals, a number so low that it equals less than a week’s worth of apprehensions from January 2025. Daily apprehensions now average 196 per day, a dramatic 96% reduction from the previous administration’s daily average. For the ninth straight month, CBP reported zero parole releases, underscoring the administration’s commitment to ending mass-release practices.
Drug Interdictions Strengthen Public Safety
While illegal crossings have plummeted, CBP continues to intercept significant quantities of dangerous narcotics. In January alone, agents seized 785 pounds of fentanyl, preventing the deadly synthetic opioid from reaching American communities. Combined seizures of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana increased 15% compared to December.
Year-over-year comparisons show substantial gains in drug enforcement effectiveness. Cocaine seizures rose 7%, methamphetamine 35%, and marijuana 76% compared to January 2025. These increases reflect both enhanced detection capabilities and intensified pressure on smuggling networks.
Trade Enforcement and Economic Security
Beyond border security, CBP plays a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s economic interests. In January 2026, the agency processed $267 billion in imports and identified $27.8 billion in duties for collection. From January 20, 2025, through January 31, 2026, CBP assessed $253.3 billion in tariffs, taxes, and fees—reinforcing its role as one of the federal government’s largest revenue collectors.
Protecting Consumers and Supply Chains
CBP continues to target forced labor, counterfeit goods, and other threats to lawful commerce. In January, officers detained 530 shipments valued at nearly $30 million for potential forced labor violations. Additionally, CBP seized 2,190 shipments containing counterfeit products worth more than $355.7 million, preventing unsafe and fraudulent goods from entering U.S. markets.
Safeguarding American Agriculture
Agriculture specialists remain vigilant in protecting U.S. farms, livestock, and natural resources. In January,CBP issued 6,410 emergency action notifications for prohibited plant and animal products.Officers also conducted 102,070 positive passenger inspections and issued 786 civil penalties for undeclared agricultural items—critical steps in preventing the introduction of pests and diseases.