Simply Trade

Global Training Center
  • 4.6 (22)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Do you find yourself randomly classifying products… when you are not at work? Does the reason why you jump out of bed every morning have anything to do with validating your supply chain to insure trade compliance? Did you sit in your favorite chair with a glass of wine, paging through the latest regulations and thought to yourself, ‘what a great way to spend my free time’? If any of these apply to you, then you are very likely a ‘trade geek’… that is why we created Simply Trade just for you. Your hosts, Andy and Lalo have a combined 60+ years in the industry. Covering everything from logistics to technology. There is so much to learn with the ever-evolving world of trade. We’ve invited some friends over to our podcast to simply ’shoot the ship’ on all things trade. So join us every week as we discuss current and important trade topics with experts in their field who are passionate about helping you succeed! You’ll never run out of things to learn when it comes to trading goods across international borders. Let’s get to it!

  1. 2H AGO

    Cindy's Version: Congress, Not the President: Supreme Court Limits IEEPA Tariff Power

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: February 20, 2026 Length: ~18 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary “Tariff Friday” may go down as one of the most pivotal days in recent trade history. In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down the U.S. Supreme Court’s 6–3 decision ruling that IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. The Court found that the authority to levy taxes and tariffs belongs to Congress, and that the term “regulate” under IEEPA does not include the power to raise revenue. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Opalite, Cindy walks through what the ruling actually says, what it does not say, and what importers and customs brokers should do right now while awaiting further instruction from the Court of International Trade (CIT) and CBP. The decision may have brought sunlight—but operational clarity will take time. This Week in Trade (Before the Ruling) • Awaiting details on Taiwan 15% MFN (or higher) structure • Pending clarification on India IEEPA reciprocal adjustment (25% to 18%) • Indonesia agreement announced with 19% tariff and textile tariff-rate quota • No movement on elimination of First Sale • No further action on ending IEEPA on Canada • U.S. manufacturing indicators down; stock market up The Supreme Court Decision The Supreme Court issued a 6–3 opinion finding that IEEPA does not grant authority to impose tariffs. Key findings: • IEEPA contains nine enumerated action verbs — none include taxing or raising revenue • Congress alone holds the constitutional authority to levy tariffs • Specific delegated authorities (Sections 301, 232, 122, 338) include limitations and procedural controls • Because Congress created these specific tariff authorities, a broad IEEPA tariff authority cannot be implied • During peacetime, the President does not have independent tariff authority The Court remanded the case back to the lower court — likely the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) — which must now issue implementation instructions. What We Still Don’t Know • When the CIT will issue instructions • When (or if) CBP will suspend IEEPA tariff collection • Whether refunds will be automatic or require action • Whether de minimis is affected • Whether related trade agreements tied to IEEPA remain intact • Whether the administration pivots to Section 122 or 338 authorities What Importers Should Do Right Now Cindy’s recommendation is clear: Continue paying duties until formal CBP guidance is issued. Why? • Duties were in effect at time of entry • Monthly statement entries could otherwise be considered unpaid • CBP systems still contain IEEPA tariff numbers and edit checks • Programming updates will take time Stopping payment prematurely could create compliance risk. Refunds, when issued, will likely require formal action — potentially protests, post-summary corrections, or other ACE updates. Given the volume of entries involved, automatic refunds appear unlikely. Key Takeaways • IEEPA tariffs have been ruled unlawful for revenue purposes • Congress retains sole tariff authority • Operational changes will depend on CIT and CBP implementation • Continue paying duties until official guidance is issued • Refund mechanics remain unclear • Trade professionals must remain disciplined and patient Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • TradeForce Multiplier • U.S. Supreme Court Opinion (24-1287) Credits Host: • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn • TradeForce Multiplier Producer: • Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Subscribe & Follow New episodes every Friday. Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. • Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn • Global Training Center on LinkedIn • YouTube • Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Trade Geeks Community

    11 min

  2. 1D AGO

    Inside the Port: Infrastructure, Growth & the Future of New Orleans with Kristi App

    Episode: #444 Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo Solorzano Guest: Kristi App, Chief Commercial Officer, Port of New Orleans Published: February 2026 Length: ~35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center 🏗️ Episode Summary This week, Andy and Lalo shift gears from tariff talk and policy debates to something just as critical — port infrastructure and cargo flow. They sit down with Kristi App, newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer for the Port of New Orleans, to discuss her transition from a multi-generational family customs brokerage to one of the most important trade gateways in the United States. From Mardi Gras humor to multimodal logistics strategy, this conversation dives into: The economic impact of the Mississippi River complex Why the Port of New Orleans is uniquely positioned with all six Class I rail connections The realities of competing with Brazil and Argentina in agricultural exports Panama Canal water levels and their impact on Gulf trade Infrastructure challenges (including bridge air draft restrictions) And the future $2 billion container terminal expansion in Violet, Louisiana Kristi brings a rare perspective — someone who has worked export ops, import brokerage, business development, and trade advocacy — now sitting on the port side making strategic infrastructure decisions that shape supply chains. If you work in logistics, brokerage, importing, exporting, or trade policy, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how ports think — and how that thinking impacts your freight. 🚢 Key Takeaways The Lower Mississippi River complex feeds, fuels, and powers the world — over 60% of U.S. grain exports flow through it. The Port of New Orleans is the only deep-draft U.S. port connected to all six Class I railroads. Freight always has a choice — ports must remain competitive and multimodal. Brazil and Argentina have become serious competitors in global ag exports. The Panama Canal’s stabilization benefits the entire Gulf ecosystem. The Crescent City Connection bridge creates air draft limitations for larger container vessels. A new $2 billion container terminal (2 million TEU capacity) is in final permitting stages — a generational infrastructure project. Retain, repatriate, and grow cargo: the port’s commercial strategy in three words. 🌎 Why This Matters to Trade Professionals Kristi emphasizes something important: Ports are the nexus of trade — but they only work if infrastructure investments match market demand. For brokers and importers/exporters, that means: More routing options Multimodal flexibility (rail + river + interstate) Competitive Gulf Coast alternatives Future-ready capacity for larger vessels This episode is a reminder that policy debates are one thing — but infrastructure is what actually moves goods. 📍 Industry Events Mentioned TPM Conference – Long Beach Journal of Commerce Breakbulk Conference – New Orleans (April 20–22) 🔗 Resources & Mentions Kristi App – LinkedIn Port of New Orleans National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) Journal of Commerce U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Mississippi River Channel Management 🎧 Credits Hosts: Andy Shiles Lalo Solorzano Guest: Kristi App, Chief Commercial Officer, Port of New Orleans Produced & Presented by: Global Training Center 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community: LinkedIn – Andy Shiles LinkedIn – Lalo Solorzano LinkedIn – Global Training Center YouTube – Simply Trade Podcast Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Trade Geeks Community – https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

    36 min

  3. 2D AGO

    [TIPS] Learning as Infrastructure: Automating Trade Knowledge in Real Time

    Series 5 – Episode 5 Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels) Length: ~12 minutes Format: Simply Trade Tips Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie tackle a topic that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: learning. With trade rules shifting constantly — tariff changes, executive orders, enforcement priorities, and regulatory updates — relying on static training or tribal knowledge simply isn’t enough. Traditional “calendar training” (scheduled webinars, annual sessions, policy rollouts) still has value, but it’s disconnected from daily operations. The big idea? Learning must move from a side activity to core infrastructure. Renee and Julie introduce the concept of “inflow learning” — contextual, real-time training embedded directly into workflow systems. Instead of pausing work to learn, professionals access guidance at the exact moment they need it. This shift makes compliance more resilient, scalable, and defensible in today’s enforcement environment. Key Topics Covered Why static training creates operational gaps The difference between: Calendar training (scheduled sessions) Inflow training (embedded, contextual learning) How automation can trigger learning during: Origin determinations Classification decisions Filing processes Audit reviews Role-based learning paths for importers, exporters, and compliance teams Micro-learning triggered by real-time errors Using AI to generate contextual training from existing materials Why regulators expect documented training as part of “reasonable care” How embedded learning reduces repeat errors and improves confidence Why knowledge in trade is no longer theoretical — it impacts entries, exports, and balance sheets immediately Key Takeaways Learning must be integrated into daily workflow, not isolated from it Automation supports better decision-making without replacing expertise Real-time learning reduces repeat errors and strengthens defensibility Training documentation can become powerful evidence during audits Trade compliance in today’s environment requires resilience, not just proactivity This Episode’s FIO (Figure It Out) Take a moment to evaluate your current training model: Is your team relying mostly on scheduled sessions? Do your systems provide contextual, real-time learning prompts? Have you asked your software provider about embedded guidance tools? Have you explored advanced or hybrid learning models that combine live instruction with digital access? Dip your toe in. Explore what’s available. Demand better integration between learning and operations. Join the Conversation How is your organization approaching trade training in 2026? Are you relying on memory — or building infrastructure? Join us inside the Trade Geeks Community and share what you’re doing to make learning more resilient. Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎧 Subscribe & Follow New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect With Us Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn Global Training Center on LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community 💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📧 SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Twitter/X: @SimplyTradePod

    13 min

  4. 4D AGO

    [ROUNDUP] What Congress’s “Last Sale” Move Means for Importers with Mollie Sitkowski

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Mollie Sitkowski Published: February 2026 Length: ~25 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center First Sale Under Fire: What Importers Need to Know Now In this Simply Trade Roundup, Annik sits down with trade attorney Mollie Sitkowski to unpack one of the hottest topics in customs right now: first sale and the new Senate proposal that could effectively eliminate it. Recorded on President’s Day, this episode breaks down—in normal language—what first sale is, why it became a go‑to mitigation tool after 2018, and what it would mean for importers if Congress redefines “sold for exportation” to a strict last‑sale rule. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 2026 so far in trade Why January felt strangely calm, and how February “flipped the switch” back into high gear for the trade community. First sale 101 (plain English) How multi‑tier transactions work: manufacturer → middleman (e.g., Hong Kong parent) → U.S. importer. The valuation statute 19 USC 1401a (transaction value: price paid or payable when sold for exportation to the U.S.). The key question: is the sale “for exportation” at the manufacturer → middleman stage, or at the middleman → importer stage? The Nissho Iwai court decision (1990s) that allowed use of the manufacturer price as the dutiable value if: The goods were clearly destined for the U.S. (through waybills, U.S. labeling/marking, etc.). There was a bona fide sale between manufacturer and middleman (title/risk of loss, inventory, not just a flash pass‑through). Why first sale became so important Before 2018, first sale was mostly used in textiles with high duty rates. After the first round of Trump tariffs (301, 232, etc.), almost all of Mollie’s China import clients started using or exploring first sale—because you can’t control the HTS list or which country is targeted next, but you can control value. One client even called it “bulletproof mitigation” (with Mollie’s caveat: nothing is bulletproof in this environment). Global context and earlier attempts to limit first sale 2007–2008: WTO/GATT valuation guidance interpreting “sold for exportation” as the last sale before import, and how most countries followed that reading. U.S. Customs tried to adopt that approach; the trade community pushed back; Congress stepped in and reaffirmed both the statute and court precedent—Customs cannot unilaterally change 1401a. The new Senate bill: “last sale” language Senators Cassidy and Whitehouse have introduced a bill to amend 19 USC 1401a and define the sale for exportation in two ways: For a single sale: the price paid by the buyer in the U.S. to a foreign seller. For a series of sales: the last sale that introduces the merchandise into the U.S.(i.e., the middleman → U.S. importer transaction). Practical effect: if passed, first sale is gone; only the last sale price would be acceptable for transaction value. What this means for importers Loss of a key, long‑standing legal mitigation tool—importers still pay duties today under first sale; they just pay on a lower manufacturer value instead of the higher middleman price. Many middleman markups are 5% or more—significant when base duties are 20%+ on broad product ranges. Large operational effort: Reversing all the work done to implement first sale (data feeds, documentation, control processes). Changing what gets sent to brokers (switching from manufacturer invoices back to middleman/transfer price invoices). Reworking internal communication among customs, finance, accounting, tax, sourcing, and IT. Likely pressure to raise prices and/or re‑evaluate sourcing—but with the reminder that sourcing shifts are risky when tariff policy can change by tweet or Truth Social post. Why the government cares about eliminating first sale When headquarters/middlemen are outside the U.S. in low‑tax jurisdictions, profit resides offshore. First sale lets importers avoid paying customs duties on that offshore markup, so the U.S. loses both tax revenue and potential duty revenue. The bill’s stated goals: increase customs revenue, strengthen tariff enforcement, and “simplify” CBP oversight by avoiding upstream pricing debates. What you can do now This is a congressional process, not just an agency policy shift—your senators and representatives will vote. Mollie’s advice: Educate your leadership about how much you save through first sale and what losing it would cost (duties, margins, jobs, pricing). Reach out to congressional offices in your district/state and explain real‑world impacts on your business and employees. Use this moment like 2007–2008, when trade community pushback and congressional action kept first sale alive. Looking ahead If the bill passes, importers will have to: Stop using first sale and revert to last‑sale valuation. Rebuild systems and procedures to align with the new statute. Prepare for increased duty spend and strategy shifts (pricing, sourcing, cost absorption). If it doesn’t, expect continued scrutiny and heavy documentation requirements for anyone using first sale. Presented by: Global Training Center​ Listen & Subscribe Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com​ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690​ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq​ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade​ Connect with Simply Trade Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​ Join the Trade Geeks Community Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

    22 min

  5. FEB 13

    [Cindy's Version] Trade is in a State of Grace

    Host: Cindy Allen Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: February 13, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center State of Grace: Tariffs, First Sale Under Fire, and a Glimmer of Stability In this episode of Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, walks through another busy week in global trade and ties it to Taylor Swift’s “State of Grace”—focusing on the idea that, despite the shock of recent policy shifts, this is still a “worthwhile fight” for trade professionals. From new trade deals to challenges against tariff policy and first sale threats, Cindy explains what’s changing and where there are signs of hope.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode New trade deals and tariff shifts A U.S.–Taiwan deal capping total tariffs at 15% (either limiting MFN above 15% or applying 15% where MFN is lower). Details emerging on agreements with Guatemala, El Salvador, Argentina, and an India deal rolling back some reciprocal tariffs tied to India’s Russian oil purchases.​ Where to find official text and specifics: USTR’s website.​ Border infrastructure and electronic bonds The administration’s threat to block the opening of the long‑planned Gordie Howe Bridge between Detroit and Ontario over funding/ownership disputes, and why Canada and Michigan intend to proceed regardless. How this new public crossing will compete with the privately owned Ambassador Bridge for billions in daily cross‑border trade.​ CBP’s move to mandate electronic surety bond filing for all bonds, formalizing what many brokers, importers, and sureties already do—and why Cindy strongly supports it.​ Section 232 guidance softens (slightly) New CBP guidance on 232 tariffs for steel, aluminum, and copper, dialing back earlier aggressive interpretations. Trade groups have received written clarification allowing certain labor/overhead costs to be prorated into steel/aluminum values instead of fully loaded, even as petitioners continue to argue that none of those costs should be included. Why importers should review the latest guidance carefully, track affected entries, and monitor the ongoing Court of International Trade challenge.​ USMCA and IEPA signals from Capitol Hill Senate Finance Committee signaling support for extending USMCA, seeking stability before any renegotiation, while the administration is rumored to prefer separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico.​ The House vote to end IEPA duties on Canada for certain non‑USMCA goods—a positive step toward predictability, though the bill still must clear the Senate and avoid a presidential veto.​ First sale under threat Introduction of a bill to eliminate first sale, driven by some of the same groups that pushed to curtail de minimis and oppose duty‑reducing mechanisms generally. Why this is significant: many large importers rely on first sale, provide extensive upstream data to CBP, and enable deeper supply‑chain visibility and risk management. Trade associations have already begun weighing in to defend first sale; Cindy flags this as a fight to watch closely.​ EU deal conditions and a big auto bill The EU moving its U.S. tariff deal through lawmakers but adding elements like sunset deadlines and “security triggers” that go beyond earlier negotiating language.​ Ford announcing an expected 900 million dollar 232‑related tariff hit after previously anticipated automotive offsets were disallowed for several months—raising questions about how other automakers will fare and whether Ford might push back through protests or litigation.​ Global trade up, U.S. trade down Conference insights from Manifest: global trade volumes are rising overall, but trade into the U.S. is declining, as exporters pivot to other markets they perceive as less costly and less complex. This trend aligns with a surge in trade deals worldwide that do not include the U.S.​ Why “State of Grace”? Cindy connects the week’s developments to Taylor Swift’s “State of Grace,” highlighting the line: “I never saw you coming and I’ll never be the same. This is a state of grace, this is a worthwhile fight.” She uses this to frame: How studies now confirm what many suspected—U.S. consumers have already paid roughly 1,000 dollars more due to tariffs, with an additional 1,300 dollars expected in the coming year. How tariffs are hitting companies and rural communities: constrained exports for U.S. agriculture, rising small‑farm bankruptcies, and knock‑on impacts to local economies. Research showing that about 90% of tariff costs are passed from suppliers to U.S. importers, then to consumers, and even to manufacturers who never import directly but rely on tariff‑burdened inputs.​ Despite this, she sees reasons for cautious optimism: Companies challenging IEPA and 232 in court. Large players like Ford publicly quantifying tariff impacts. Congress beginning to reassert its constitutional role over tariffs and question security‑based justifications used as broad economic tools. Early, coordinated pushback against eliminating first sale—stronger than what was seen around de minimis.​ For Cindy, these developments suggest the industry may be entering a state of grace—a moment where data, legal challenges, and coordinated advocacy start to rebalance the conversation and make the fight for smarter trade policy worth it.​ Credits Host: Cindy Allen Producer: Annik Sobing Presented by: Global Training Center Sponsor: PAX AI ​ Listen & Subscribe Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com​ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690​ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq​ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade​ Connect with Simply Trade Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​ Join the Trade Geeks Community Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

    14 min

  6. FEB 12

    ATCC 2026 Recap: Trade War, AI, USMCA & What’s Keeping Compliance Leaders Up at Night

    Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo Solorzano Guests: Jill Roseman & Darie Achstein Conway Episode: ST440 Length: ~42 minutes Episode Summary What happens when some of the sharpest minds in trade compliance gather in one room? In this special recap episode, Andy and Lalo sit down with trade compliance leaders Jill Roseman and Darie Achstein Conway to unpack the biggest takeaways from the 2026 Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) Conference. From “Trump 2.0” trade policies to stacked Section 232/301 tariffs, AI in customs enforcement, USMCA uncertainty, cartel-related compliance risk, and the explosive rise in executive-level attention to trade — this episode highlights why compliance is no longer sitting in the corner. If you’ve ever wondered whether conferences are worth the investment… this conversation may change your mind. Meet the Guests Jill Roseman A seasoned global trade compliance leader with 20+ years of experience across chemicals, pharmaceuticals (pet and human health), policy work, M&A, and global program development. Jill brings a strategic perspective on mitigation strategies, first sale for export, and executive communication in today’s trade environment. Darie Achstein Conway A longtime trade compliance expert with more than 30 years in manufacturing and technology, with deep expertise in exports and encryption licensing. Darie is also an instructor with Global Training Center and brings both industry wisdom and fresh insights on AI, automation, and the next generation of trade professionals. Key Discussion Highlights Trade War Reality: What’s Actually Happening? Section 232 and 301 stacking Mitigation strategies (including First Sale for Export) How to translate trade policy into executive-level language Why compliance teams are suddenly front and center in corporate strategy AI Is Here — And Customs Is Already Using It AI-driven HTS classification Automation expectations from brokers, 3PLs, and carriers Why companies not leveraging automation risk falling behind The importance of verification and documentation when using AI Executive Awareness Is Rising Directors and VPs taking compliance training Trade compliance now touching every business function: procurement, finance, HR, legal, IT, logistics The importance of bringing compliance into sourcing and strategic planning conversations early USMCA & Mexico Policy Developments Keynote insights from former Mexican Ambassador Bárbara González 70% changes to Mexico’s constitution Potential implications of cartel designation as terrorist organizations What this could mean for forced labor-style scrutiny and due diligence The Power of Conferences Why sending multiple compliance team members matters Splitting tracks and comparing notes The value of networking in complex, fast-changing regulatory environments Why one conference per year may no longer be enough Top Takeaways Trade compliance is now a board-level conversation. AI is reshaping both enforcement and compliance workflows. Mitigation strategies require constant monitoring. Conferences aren’t optional anymore — they’re strategic investments. Even seasoned professionals walk away humbled — and sharper. Resources Learn more about the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) conference via Deleon Trade Explore compliance education programs at Global Training Center Credits Hosts: Andy Shiles Lalo Solorzano Produced by: Global Training Center Podcast: Simply Trade Subscribe & Follow Simply Trade 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 💼 Global Training Center LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

    37 min

  7. FEB 10

    [TIPS] Audit Automation & Defensible Compliance

    Trade & Tech Series – Episode 4 Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Hammer and Heels Length: ~12 minutes Format: Simply Trade Tips (Trade & Tech series) Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks dive into the evolving role of audit automation in global trade compliance — and why traditional, reactive auditing models are no longer enough. With increased enforcement focus from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice, companies can no longer rely on trust-based assertions or post-liquidation corrections. Instead, trade compliance is shifting from passive, after-the-fact reviews to active, continuous validation powered by technology and AI. Renee and Julie break down how automated audit controls can help companies defend tariff positions, validate origin and classification claims, and identify risk before it becomes an enforcement issue — all while freeing human auditors to focus on higher-value analysis. Key Topics Covered Why audit programs are now a regulatory expectation, not a “nice to have” DOJ and CBP enforcement priorities impacting import compliance The limits of traditional sample-based audits and post-liquidation fixes What audit automation really means in trade compliance Using technology to continuously validate: Classification Valuation Country of origin FTA eligibility Trade remedy exposure How ERP data changes can impact compliance in real time The importance of defensibility over perfection Why AI doesn’t replace judgment — it enhances it Data readiness: understanding what data you actually have before deploying AI tools Key Takeaways Compliance today is about proof, not assertions Regulators don’t expect zero errors — they expect reasonable, documented controls Audit automation helps identify risk before entry finalization or liquidation Technology enables trade teams to review more data with fewer resources Human auditors are still critical — automation removes low-value tasks so they can focus on what matters most Defensible audit programs protect both the company and leadership This Episode’s FIO (Figure It Out) Pause and kick the tires on audit automation. Identify one provider or tool Understand what comparisons they can run using your existing data Evaluate what low-hanging fruit automation can remove from your auditors’ workload Use technology to enhance — not replace — human expertise Even testing one tool can reshape how you think about audit readiness and defensibility. Join the Conversation How are you auditing your trade data today? Are you still relying on samples and spreadsheets — or moving toward continuous validation? Join the discussion in the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how you’re approaching audit automation. Credits Hosts: Renée Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎧 Subscribe & Follow New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect With Us Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn Global Training Center on LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community 💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

    14 min

  8. FEB 9

    [ROUNDUP] Tariffs, Trust Issues & USMCA 2.0 with Joshua Beker

    Host: Annik Sobing Guest: Joshua Beker Published: February 6, 2026 Length: ~20 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center ATCC 2026: Cookies, Customs Law, and Why Trade is Suddenly Sexy Live from Day 3 of the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) Conference in Houston, Annik sits down with trade lawyer Joshua Beker from Roberts & Kehagiaras LLP Law Firm (met thanks to their irresistible local cookies). Joshua shares how he accidentally fell into trade law before it was "cool," why kids are now chasing trade careers, and what brokers/importers need to fix right nowamid tariff chaos.​ What You'll Learn in This Episode: How Joshua stumbled into trade law during school and now gets constant "how do I become a trade lawyer?" messages from students Why 2018's first 301 tariffs (2.5% → 25%) made everyone suddenly care about duties—and 2026's even wilder environment is drawing new talent Common mistakes still killing companies: Chinese-labeled boxes from "Vietnam," missing factory photos, zero origin verification The compliance "magnifying glass": origin, valuation, classification now mean 50% duty swings under USMCA if you get it wrong Trust crisis aftermath: 2025's Truth Social posts that went nowhere (Canada 100%, Korea hikes, India rollback)—how to rebuild process confidence Cross-functional training is non-negotiable: engineers, finance, procurement mustunderstand why compliance asks for BOMs/pictures/policies ATCC value for brokers: quick expert guidance on 232 valuations (CBP guidance often thin), E&O help, license audits, client advising (auto/steel/furniture/medical) Joshua's 2026 Predictions: Retraction/scale-back of aggressive trade actions (already starting) IEEPA case decision post-State of the Union USMCA renegotiation: all 3 countries want updates—lobby now via public comments (it works—tariff shift rules already changed from past efforts) Policies aren't static: build living procedures that adapt monthly, assign owners, train cross-functionally ATCC Highlights (Houston, Feb 2026): Joshua emphasizes ATCC's blend of C-suite policy + operational "how-to-file-today" sessions with lawyers/brokers/importers. Global networking (Canada/Brazil/Mexico/Adidas reps) creates crisis-call contacts. For Southern border brokers, it's essential intel to serve auto/steel/furniture/medical clients amid monthly rule shifts. Key Takeaways: Trade law went from invisible to hot overnight—leverage conferences like ATCC to upskill fast Start fixing compliance with education: get lawyers in front of decision-makers, scare with penalties, build policies Cross-train everyone—they don't need expertise, just enough to escalate red flags and support compliance asks Lobbying works: USMCA tariff shift changes prove public comments shape outcomes—submit yours now ATCC isn't optional for brokers/importers—it's where you translate big-picture chaos into industry-specific procedures Resources & Mentions: Roberts & Kehagiaras LLP: customs practice, broker E&O, audits, rulings ATCC Conference: advanced customs compliance, Houston 2026 PaxAI & Global Training Center: Simply Trade Podcast Sponsors Presented by: Global Training Center​ Listen & Subscribe Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com​ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690​ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq​ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade​ Connect with Simply Trade Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​ Join the Trade Geeks Community Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

    19 min
See All (445)

4.6
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Do you find yourself randomly classifying products… when you are not at work? Does the reason why you jump out of bed every morning have anything to do with validating your supply chain to insure trade compliance? Did you sit in your favorite chair with a glass of wine, paging through the latest regulations and thought to yourself, ‘what a great way to spend my free time’? If any of these apply to you, then you are very likely a ‘trade geek’… that is why we created Simply Trade just for you. Your hosts, Andy and Lalo have a combined 60+ years in the industry. Covering everything from logistics to technology. There is so much to learn with the ever-evolving world of trade. We’ve invited some friends over to our podcast to simply ’shoot the ship’ on all things trade. So join us every week as we discuss current and important trade topics with experts in their field who are passionate about helping you succeed! You’ll never run out of things to learn when it comes to trading goods across international borders. Let’s get to it!

Information

  • Creator
    Global Training Center
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    445
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

You Might Also Like