Simply Trade

Global Training Center

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. 19h ago

    [Cindy's Version] The Tortured Trade Department: Tariffs, AI & the New Enforcement Reality

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: August 7, 2026 Length: ~15 min Presented by: Global Training Center Summary International trade compliance is getting more complicated—and the tools used to enforce it are getting smarter. In this week’s Simply Trade update, Cindy Allen puts a trade-compliance spin on Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department and breaks down a busy week of tariff changes, forced-labor developments, enforcement activity, and technology. Cindy examines new Section 232 developments affecting pharmaceuticals, solar-grade polysilicon and derivative products, along with proposed additions to existing copper, steel, and aluminum measures. The growing focus on derivative products means importers increasingly need visibility beyond the finished good, including components, raw materials, suppliers, pricing, origin, and potential exemptions. She also explores CBP’s increasing reliance on AI and advanced analytics, recent duty-evasion findings, UFLPA developments, China’s countermeasures, and complications surrounding IEEPA duty refunds. The bigger message for trade professionals: enforcement isn’t likely to disappear. As governments gain better analytical capabilities, companies need equally strong visibility into their supply chains. Technology can help uncover risk—but experienced trade professionals still have to interpret the data and make the right compliance decisions. This Week in Trade • New Section 232 requirements affecting solar-grade polysilicon and derivative products are adding another layer of supply-chain complexity. • Commerce has proposed adding 14 products to existing Section 232 measures covering copper, steel, and aluminum. • CBP’s roadmap through 2030 highlights AI, analytics, interoperability, and increasingly sophisticated enforcement capabilities. • Forced-labor enforcement, China countermeasures, duty-evasion cases, and IEEPA refund validation issues continue to create compliance challenges. Main Topic / Discussion The trade environment is moving beyond traditional questions about classification, value, and country of origin. Importers increasingly need visibility deep into their supply chains to understand the components and raw materials contained in finished products, the parties involved, applicable pricing rules, and whether exemptions apply. At the same time, CBP is becoming more sophisticated in how it identifies risk. Advanced analytics can connect activity across suppliers and transactions that an importer may not immediately see. For companies, that makes supply-chain visibility and technology increasingly important. AI can help organize and analyze enormous amounts of trade data, but technology alone isn't the answer. Trade professionals still need to evaluate the results, understand the regulatory context, and determine the actual compliance risk. Key Takeaways • Section 232 derivative-product measures mean importers may need visibility all the way down to component and raw-material levels. • CBP’s growing use of AI and analytical tools makes deeper supply-chain connections easier for enforcement teams to identify. • Companies should not assume heightened enforcement will disappear with future political or leadership changes. • Trade teams should evaluate whether their existing technology provides enough visibility to identify tariff exposure, exemptions, forced-labor concerns, and supplier-level risks before regulators do. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) • Section 232 tariffs and derivative-product requirements • Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) • CBP Office of Field Operations 2030 roadmap • Trade Force Multiplier Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  2. 1d ago

    Building Career Pathways with ICPA

    Host: Victoria Schneider and Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell and Lynda Thomas Published: August 6, 2026 Length: Approximately 26 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What does the future of professional development look like for trade compliance professionals? In this episode, Victoria Schneider and Lalo Solorzano introduce a new monthly Simply Trade check-in with the International Compliance Professionals Association and explore the reimagined ICPA Global Trade Pathways Conference. Victoria, Elisabeth Sherrell, and ICPA co-founder Lynda Thomas explain why the event is no longer simply a smaller version of ICPA’s annual conference. Instead, it is being designed as a distinct experience for professionals at every stage of their careers—from students and newcomers to experienced compliance leaders. The conversation covers the conference’s new professional development track, which complements technical trade education with practical skills such as leadership, communication, networking, organization, presentation development, and self-assessment. The group also discusses professional certifications, certification preparation through Global Training Center, ICPA’s work with University of North Texas students, the importance of building a stronger talent pipeline, and ICPA’s expanding educational presence in Mexico and the Asia-Pacific region. Above all, this episode highlights the supportive community behind ICPA—a place where trade professionals can find education, career opportunities, meaningful connections, and people who understand the challenges of the profession. Main Topic / Discussion The ICPA Global Trade Pathways Conference is being redesigned as a standalone educational and professional-development experience rather than a smaller version of ICPA’s annual conference. Its programming brings together technical trade education, career development, certification opportunities, networking, and community building. Attendees can follow pathways suited to their experience level while developing the interpersonal and leadership skills needed to advance their careers. Professional Development Beyond Technical Knowledge Technical expertise may help someone become an effective compliance professional, but advancing into leadership often requires additional abilities. The professional development track will address topics such as: • Understanding personal communication and working styles • Developing leadership skills • Networking as an introvert • Delivering more impactful presentations • Staying organized in challenging environments • Connecting personal strengths with long-term career goals Certifications and Exam Preparation ICPA has selected five specialized international trade certifications that address meaningful areas of the profession, including export controls, imports, freight forwarding, logistics, and ITAR. The conference will provide live proctoring for certification exams, but attendees should prepare before arriving. The conference sessions alone are not intended to serve as complete exam preparation. Global Training Center has developed study roadmaps and preparation options, including an ITAR cohort led by Lila Landis, to help professionals prepare for these rigorous exams. Building the Next Generation of Trade Professionals ICPA is also working with students from the University of North Texas supply chain and logistics program. Students will have opportunities to attend sessions, meet service providers, explore employment possibilities, and learn how trade compliance can become a visible and rewarding career path. A Community Built Around Connection Education remains central to ICPA events, but the organization also emphasizes the personal connections created at its conferences. Attendees can meet peers facing similar challenges, exchange advice, build professional networks, discover job opportunities, and feel recognized within a profession that is often misunderstood or undervalued. Key Takeaways • The Global Trade Pathways Conference is a distinct event—not a smaller version of the ICPA Annual Conference. • Professional advancement requires communication, leadership, presentation, networking, and organizational skills in addition to technical expertise. • ICPA’s certification program gives trade professionals additional ways to demonstrate specialized knowledge and commitment to the industry. • Certification exams are intentionally rigorous and require advance preparation beyond attending conference sessions. • Partnerships with universities can introduce students to trade compliance and help strengthen the industry’s future talent pipeline. • The most valuable part of an ICPA conference may be the community of professionals who share experiences, advice, opportunities, and support. • ICPA plans to continue expanding its international education through conferences in Mexico and a future return to the Asia-Pacific region. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • 2026 ICPA Global Trade Pathways Conference • International Compliance Professionals Association • University of North Texas • Global Training Center ITAR certification preparation with Lila Landis • International Trade Certification Program • ITAR and EAR education • Import, export, freight-forwarding, and logistics certifications Credits Host: Victoria Schneider Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell - LinkedIn Lynda Thomas - LinkedIn Producer: Mara Marquez 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  3. Jul 31

    Are You Ready for It? – One Full Year of Cindy's Version

    A year of making international trade make sense—one Taylor Swift song at a time. Host: Cindy Allen Published: July 31, 2026 Length: ~16:19 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary One year ago, Cindy's Version debuted with a simple mission: make international trade news easier to understand—one Taylor Swift song at a time. In this anniversary episode, Cindy celebrates the milestone while tackling another week packed with major developments impacting importers, customs brokers, and global supply chains. Using Taylor Swift's "...Ready For It?" as the theme, Cindy explores the latest discussions surrounding de minimis changes, duty enforcement, USMCA negotiations, new pharmaceutical Section 232 tariffs, and CBP's continued focus on trade enforcement. More importantly, she explains why companies should stop reacting to trade actions and instead prepare for them through proactive planning. The episode's biggest takeaway isn't tied to any single tariff announcement. It's about building an organizational playbook that brings together compliance, finance, legal, procurement, sales, and executive leadership before the next trade action arrives. With regulatory changes becoming more frequent and enforcement continuing to increase, preparation has become one of the most valuable competitive advantages a company can have. Whether you're an importer, customs broker, compliance professional, or executive responsible for global supply chains, this anniversary episode offers practical guidance for staying ready in today's constantly evolving trade environment. This Week in Trade • CBP receives extensive feedback on proposed de minimis changes and postal parity concerns. • CBP announces more than $1 billion recovered through Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) duty evasion investigations. • USMCA negotiations continue amid reported disagreements surrounding Sections 232 and 301 tariffs. • New Section 232 requirements for patented pharmaceuticals introduce additional reporting responsibilities for importers and customs brokers. Main Topic / Discussion International trade has entered an era where regulatory changes occur regularly rather than occasionally. Cindy explains why companies should move beyond reacting to each announcement and instead establish a repeatable response process. Rather than focusing solely on individual tariff actions, organizations should develop a cross-functional trade playbook that identifies affected products, evaluates financial exposure, assesses contractual obligations, communicates with suppliers and customers, and enables leadership to make informed decisions quickly. Preparation—not prediction—is becoming the defining characteristic of successful trade compliance programs. Key Takeaways • Trade enforcement continues to accelerate, making strong compliance programs more valuable than ever. • High-quality supply chain data is essential for responding quickly to new trade actions. • Cross-functional planning involving finance, legal, procurement, sales, and compliance should be documented before regulatory changes occur. • Companies that develop repeatable trade response playbooks will be better positioned to navigate future tariffs and enforcement actions. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center — https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Trade Force Multiplier - https://www.linkedin.com/company/trade-force-multiplier-llc/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) • USMCA • Section 232 Tariffs • Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) Credits Host Cindy Allen https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/ Guest(s) N/A Producer Lalo Solorzano https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on • 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 💬 Connect with us • Simply Trade https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Global Training Center https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Trade Geeks Community https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  4. Jul 31

    Tariff Refunds After IEEPA: What's Next for Importers? - with Valerie Sorensen-Clark

    Host: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles Guest(s): Valerie Sorensen-Clark Published: July 30, 2026 Length: ~25 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What happens when a court rules that tariffs were improperly imposed—and how can importers recover the money they've already paid? In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome international trade attorney Valerie Sorensen-Clark of GDLSK. Drawing from her unique experience as former U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) counsel, Valerie explains the current status of IEEPA tariff litigation and what businesses should expect as CBP processes refunds. The discussion breaks down the difference between liquidated and unliquidated entries, why those distinctions matter, and how the new CAPE refund process is being implemented. Valerie also shares behind-the-scenes insight into the legal and operational challenges CBP faces while building systems to process unprecedented tariff refunds. Whether you're an importer, customs broker, trade professional, or legal advisor, this conversation offers practical guidance on determining your eligibility, understanding the refund process, and knowing when it's time to consult customs counsel. If your company paid IEEPA tariffs, this episode provides valuable context on what comes next and how to prepare. Main Topic / Discussion The conversation focuses on the evolving legal landscape surrounding IEEPA tariffs following recent court decisions and what those rulings mean for importers seeking refunds. Valerie explains: Why the courts determined the IEEPA tariffs exceeded statutory authority. The operational rollout of CBP's CAPE refund process. The critical distinction between liquidated and unliquidated entries. Why some refunds can be processed immediately while others require additional court action. Practical steps importers should take now to determine their options. Key Takeaways • Court decisions have opened the door for many importers to recover improperly collected IEEPA tariffs. • Understanding whether an entry is liquidated or unliquidated is critical because it determines how refunds may be processed. • CBP has made significant progress implementing the CAPE refund process but continues expanding functionality for more complex entry types. • Importers with significant tariff exposure should consult an experienced customs attorney to evaluate potential recovery opportunities. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center – https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • GDLSK LLP - https://www.gdlsk.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) • U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano — https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Andy Shiles — https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Guest(s): Valerie Sorensen-Clark — https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerieannsorensen/ Producer: Lalo Solorzano — https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • 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 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Global Training Center: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast • Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  5. Jul 28

    [TIPS] Importer of Record Responsibilities: What Importers Must Own Now

    Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Ashley Arnold Length: 13:20 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this final installment of the Simply Trade tips run with Ashley Arnold, Lalo Solorzano and Ashley turn to a foundational question with growing consequences: who truly owns import compliance? As enforcement intensifies and importer-of-record expectations receive more attention, the conversation examines why relying entirely on a customs broker is no longer a workable compliance strategy. Ashley explains that brokers remain essential partners, but importers must understand and retain responsibility for tariff classification, customs valuation, country of origin, recordkeeping, and supply-chain visibility. The discussion also explores why foreign importers of record may face tougher vetting, how increased entry volume can expose weak processes, and why service providers need clearer accountability and a reliable paper trail. The episode moves beyond theory with practical advice: establish ownership for classification decisions, use ACE reports to review entry activity, investigate data that looks unusual, and create a recurring audit cadence instead of waiting for Customs to ask questions. The message is direct: compliance cannot be treated as a one-time setup or delegated without oversight. Importers that stay engaged, document their decisions, and work proactively with their brokers will be better positioned to identify errors early and respond confidently when scrutiny increases. Main Topic / Discussion Lalo and Ashley discuss the responsibilities attached to serving as an importer of record in a heightened enforcement environment. They explain why importers must actively oversee classification, valuation, country of origin, entry data, and recordkeeping—even when a customs broker manages the filing process. The conversation also examines increased scrutiny of foreign importers of record, the growing pressure placed on brokers and surety providers, and the importance of using ACE data to identify inconsistencies before they become larger compliance problems. Key Takeaways • Importers remain responsible for the accuracy and defensibility of their customs declarations, even when a broker files entries on their behalf. • Every importer should establish clear internal ownership for tariff classification, valuation, country-of-origin determinations, and supporting records. • ACE reports can help compliance teams identify unusual tariff numbers, unauthorized activity, entry discrepancies, and other potential risks. • Proactive, recurring audits are more effective than waiting for a Customs inquiry, payment issue, or post-entry correction deadline. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • CBP Automated Commercial Environment • Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Ashley Arnold 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  6. Jul 24

    [Cindy’s Version] Sad, Beautiful, Tragic: The New World of Tariffs

    Host: Cindy Allen Published: July 24, 2026 Length: Not provided Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen returns after a two-week break to unpack one of the most operationally challenging tariff transitions of 2026. Using Taylor Swift’s “Sad, Beautiful, Tragic” as the lens, she explores a trade environment defined by abrupt deadlines, overlapping authorities, and relationships that may be moving beyond their free-trade era. Cindy explains the transition from the temporary Section 122 duty to new Section 301 tariffs tied to how 60 economies address forced-labor imports. She examines the 10% and 12.5% tariff structures, the treatment of most-favored-nation duties for certain countries, general and country-specific exclusions, Section 232 carve-outs, and the importance of proper tariff stacking. The official action became applicable to most covered entries beginning July 24, 2026. The episode also looks ahead to Section 338 tariffs on selected Canadian products, continuing IEEPA refund activity, potential court challenges, and the uncertain future of USMCA. For importers, customs brokers, programmers, and trade teams, Cindy’s message is practical: review every tariff number, examine every applicable annex, document the analysis, and give implementation partners some grace. This Week in Trade • The temporary Section 122 tariff ended as the new Section 301 forced-labor tariff regime took effect. • Section 301 treatment now varies by country, with 10% or 12.5% rates and special MFN calculations for certain trading partners. • General, country-specific, use-specific, and Section 232 exemptions make product-level classification and origin reviews essential. • Section 338 tariffs of 50% on selected Canadian products are scheduled to take effect on August 19, 2026. Main Topic / Discussion A Layered Section 301 Implementation Cindy breaks down the new Section 301 duties imposed in connection with foreign forced-labor import prohibitions. The headline rate is only the beginning: importers must determine the correct country treatment, whether the rate is additive or calculated net of MFN duties, and whether the product qualifies for a general or country-specific exemption. Classification, Exemptions, and Tariff Stacking The extensive annexes require careful HTS classification and product review. Exemptions include certain raw materials, products that could cause economy-wide disruption, goods unavailable in sufficient quantities from domestic or alternative sources, and products already covered by Section 232. Cindy also emphasizes the importance of following CBP’s reporting sequence so each trade remedy appears on the correct tariff-stacking level. Errors in sequencing or combining duties can create problems during refund, reconciliation, protest, or liquidation activity. Canada and Section 338 New Section 338 tariffs add another layer to the changing U.S.–Canada relationship. Cindy considers whether the measures will remain negotiating leverage or take effect as scheduled—and what they could signal for the future of USMCA. The “Sad, Beautiful, Tragic” Connection Taylor Swift’s song becomes a metaphor for trade relationships, predictable implementation, and a free-trade environment that may be slipping away. Cindy closes by acknowledging that international trade has entered a fundamentally different era—one requiring closer review, faster adaptation, and stronger coordination across compliance teams. Key Takeaways • Do not assume every country receives the same Section 301 treatment. Confirm the country of origin, HTS classification, applicable rate, MFN interaction, and corresponding annex. • Review both the general exclusions and every applicable country- or use-specific exclusion before determining duty liability. • Validate tariff stacking and entry-line reporting with your customs broker and software provider to reduce refund, reconciliation, and liquidation problems. • Assess exposure to the upcoming Section 338 tariffs on Canadian products now, rather than waiting until the scheduled August 19 effective date. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • USTR Final Section 301 Action on Forced-Labor Import Prohibitions • CBP Trade Remedies • CBP IEEPA Duty Refund Information • White House Fact Sheet: Additional Tariffs on Canada Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

  7. Jul 23

    [Pete and Cindy] Enforcement Is Here: CBP Data, AI, and the Future of USMCA

    Host: Cindy Allen and Pete Mento Published: July 23, 2026 Length: 41:32 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Trade enforcement is entering a new phase—and importers, customs brokers, executives, and board members may all be in the line of sight. Cindy Allen and Pete Mento unpack the Department of Justice Trade Fraud Task Force’s announcement that it surpassed $1 billion in civil and criminal recoveries, penalties, forfeitures, and publicly charged losses in less than one year. They explore what that milestone signals for companies that still treat customs compliance as a back-office responsibility. The conversation moves from CBP Forms 28 and 29 to the government’s expanding ability to combine entry, manifest, and supply-chain data with AI-driven analysis. Cindy and Pete debate whether targeting intelligence should be shared with customs brokers and importers, how companies should approach data collaboration, and why “we’ve always done it this way” is becoming an increasingly dangerous compliance strategy. They also examine the USMCA annual review cycle, possible changes involving regional value content and Chinese-origin inputs, forced-labor enforcement, manufacturing policy, and the consumer behavior shaping global sourcing. Along the way, a Piggly Wiggly shame board, Bob Newhart’s apartment, and the toilet-paper aisle become memorable lessons about accountability, consumption, and the true cost of inexpensive goods. This Week in Trade • The DOJ Trade Fraud Task Force surpasses $1 billion in recoveries and charged losses • Cindy’s read on the growing significance of CBP Form 29 Notices of Action • AI, anomaly detection, and government supply-chain mapping • The USMCA annual review cycle and potential changes to regional content rules Main Topic / Discussion This episode explores the transition from trade facilitation and informed compliance to a far more aggressive enforcement environment. Enforcement and accountability Cindy and Pete discuss the potential exposure facing importers, customs brokers, executives, CEOs, and board members. Compliance decisions that were once treated as operational details may now create civil, criminal, financial, and reputational consequences. Data, AI, and early warning The hosts examine how CBP can use entry, manifest, supplier, and historical data to identify anomalies. They debate whether the government should share more targeting intelligence so customs brokers and importers can identify problems before an entry is filed. USMCA, sourcing, and consumers The discussion expands to the USMCA annual review process, possible Chinese-content restrictions, regional value content calculations, forced-labor enforcement, domestic manufacturing, and whether American consumers are prepared to accept higher prices or fewer choices in exchange for more ethical and regionalized supply chains. Key Takeaways • Trade compliance is no longer solely the responsibility of the customs or logistics department; executives and board members need visibility into material customs risks and compliance decisions. • CBP Forms 28 and 29 should be treated as warning signals that may justify a broader review of products, suppliers, valuation, classification, origin, and previous entries. • Importers and brokers should use data proactively to identify anomalies, understand enforcement patterns, map deeper-tier suppliers, and address risk before filing. • The USMCA review process, forced-labor enforcement, and possible changes to regional content requirements could reshape sourcing and manufacturing decisions throughout North America. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • DOJ: Trade Fraud Task Force Surpasses $1 Billion in Recoveries and Charged Losses • CBP Form 28 — Request for Information • CBP ACE Portal Guidance for Forms 28 and 29 • USTR: Statement on the 2026 USMCA Joint Review Credits Host: Cindy Allen Pete Mento Producer: Mara Marquez

  8. Jul 22

    50% Canada Tariffs: What Section 338 Means for Importers with Mollie Sitkowski

    Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Mollie Sitkowski Published: July 22, 2026 Length: 20:54 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary A rarely used provision of the Tariff Act of 1930 is suddenly at the center of North American trade. In this timely episode, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome customs and international trade attorney Mollie Sitkowski to unpack the administration’s three Section 338 proclamations targeting specified Canadian goods. The measures announce additional 50% duties beginning August 19, 2026, across tariff lines connected to disputes involving alcoholic beverages, dairy, and motor vehicles. Mollie explains why the product coverage is broader, and more complicated, than the three headline sectors suggest, how the new duties interact with Section 232 tariffs, and why USMCA qualification does not exempt covered imports. The conversation also explores whether Congress or the courts could intervene, the possibility that the tariffs are intended to bring Canada back to the negotiating table, and the implications for deeply integrated automotive supply chains. Most importantly, the episode gives importers a practical response plan: review HTS classifications, recheck Canadian origin under 19 CFR Part 102, monitor CBP implementation guidance, model a 50% worst-case scenario, and coordinate immediately across compliance, sourcing, finance, legal, and government affairs. Whether the duties take effect as announced or change through negotiation, this is the preparation window companies cannot afford to waste. Main Topic / Discussion This episode examines the newly announced Section 338 tariffs on specified Canadian imports and what companies should do before the August 19 effective date. Mollie breaks down the legal authority, covered product categories, USMCA and Section 232 treatment, potential challenges, negotiation dynamics, and the immediate classification, origin, forecasting, and supply-chain work importers should begin. Key Takeaways • The additional 50% duty applies to specified HTS provisions, not automatically to every Canadian-origin product. • USMCA qualification does not exempt covered goods, while articles already subject to Section 232 duties are excluded from the new Section 338 duties. • Importers should validate tariff classifications and country-of-origin determinations, including the application of 19 CFR Part 102, and closely monitor CBP CSMS guidance. • Compliance, finance, sourcing, legal, customs brokers, and government affairs teams should jointly model the 50% worst-case impact and identify affected shipments, suppliers, contracts, and customers now. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • White House Fact Sheet: Additional Tariffs on Canada • Section 338 Proclamation: Alcoholic Beverages • Section 338 Proclamation: Dairy • Section 338 Proclamation: Motor Vehicles • Mollie Sitkowski – Faegre Drinker Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Mollie Sitkowski - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don't forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com

See All (535)

4.7
out of 5
23 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
    535
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

You Might Also Like