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. 1D AGO

    [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

  2. 2D AGO

    [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

  3. 5D AGO

    [Cindy's Version] Long Live Trade & Friends

    Host: Cindy AllenGuests: Heather Litman & Sandra Langford-Coty Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: February 6, 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Long Live: Celebrating Trade Wins with Your Industry Crew Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, delivers this week’s rapid-fire trade update through the lens of Taylor Swift’s “Long Live”—a song about shared victories and the bonds that make them possible. From congressional pushback on exclusions to critical minerals zones and a surprising U.S.-China thaw, Cindy breaks down what happened and what’s next.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Express Carrier Bill faces pushback Peter Navarro publicly opposes the bill for simplified clearance parity with USPS, calling de minimis a zombie issue that “won’t die.”​ Congress demands exclusion transparency Senator Wyden’s letter calls the Section 232 exclusion process secretive and confusing—good news that Congress may step in for importers/exporters.​ USMCA hearing next week Senate Finance Committee will hear from pro-trade voices and domestic industry reps—watch for outcomes that could impact the agreement.​ EU moves fast on U.S. trade deal EU Parliament takes up negotiations internally to beat deadlines and avoid tariff retaliation seen with other countries.​ HTS updates published International Trade Commission released food/pharma changes effective February 1—check if you’re impacted via the International Trade Administration.​ Critical minerals preferential zone Administration (led by VP JD Vance) exploring enforceable price floors at every production stage—no details yet.​ India IEPA tariff reductions pending Rumored drop from 50% total to 18%, but no Federal Register notice or CSMS message yet—stay tuned for implementation guidance.​ U.S.-China relations thaw? Administration calls recent talks “extremely good,” signaling stability for China importers after a year of mixed signals.​ Why “Long Live”? Cindy ties the week’s developments to “Long Live,” focusing on celebrating successes with friends—especially critical now when industry networks help navigate chaos. Conferences and associations aren’t just for learning; they’re where you build the relationships that get you through volatile times.​ Key Takeaways: Momentum is building for more congressional oversight on exclusion processes—positive for transparency.​ Check HTS food/pharma updates immediately if affected; they’re already live.​ Critical minerals zone and India tariff details will drop soon—track Federal Register and CSMS closely.​ U.S.-China tone shift could mean stability, but verify with primary sources before adjusting strategy.​ Build your trade network now—when rules change monthly, friends in the industry are your real compliance superpower.​   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/

    14 min

  4. FEB 3

    [TIPS] Automation, Accuracy & the Future of Import/Export Filing

    Hosts Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive deeper into the intersection of trade and technology, focusing on how automation is reshaping import and export filing. From data ingestion and rules-based validation to AI-powered audit trails and workflow automation, they unpack where technology adds value—and where human judgment is still essential. This conversation makes one thing clear: automation isn’t about replacing trade professionals—it’s about eliminating rework, improving accuracy, and exposing bad data faster. Renee and Julie also explore how governments are leveraging AI and machine learning at scale, raising the stakes for importers and exporters to modernize their compliance processes. Key Topics Covered Why most filing errors come from disconnected systems, not bad intent Where automation shows up in customs declarations: Data ingestion from ERP, supplier, and logistics systems Rules-based validation (HS, origin, value checks) AI-driven document digitization and data extraction Different automation models in trade: Customs filing platforms Global Trade Management (GTM) systems Broker-provided technology and hybrid outsource models APIs vs. EDI and the evolution of data exchange The role of AI and machine learning in: Pattern recognition Risk detection Audit readiness and version control How governments are using advanced technology to: Screen transactions in real time Apply compliance more consistently across ports Why automation accelerates good decisions—but exposes bad master data even faster Key Takeaways Automation improves consistency and speed, but does not replace regulatory judgment Clean master data remains critical—technology can’t fix broken inputs Leveraging broker technology can be a smart option for companies with limited budgets Importers and exporters must modernize to keep pace with government enforcement tools AI should be viewed as a strategic ally, not a threat, in trade compliance This Week’s FIO (Figure It Out) Pick one area of your trade process—classification, filing, auditing, FTAs, or document management—and kick the tires on automation. Request a demo Explore how AI could reduce rework Evaluate whether broker, GTM, or hybrid models make sense for your organization The goal isn’t perfection—it’s understanding what’s possible. Join the Conversation Head over to the Trade Geeks Community and tell us: What area of automation are you exploring? What surprised you most about today’s discussion? Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano  Subscribe & Follow New Simply Trade Tips episodes drop 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

    21 min

  5. FEB 2

    ICPA Compliance Corazón: New Board Members, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade

    Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell, Alicia Bryant, Kelsey Moraski Published: February 2026 Length: ~30 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Partnership with ICPA  ICPA Compliance Corazón: Community, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade In this special Simply Trade Roundup, Annik sits down with ICPA’s new executive director, Elisabeth Sherrell, and board members Alicia Bryant and Kelsey Moraski to talk about what makes ICPA such a unique home for trade compliance professionals—and what to expect at the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference, “Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade,” in San Antonio. From career-defining connections to real-world problem solving over breakfast, this episode shines a light on the people, purpose, and heart behind ICPA.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode Who’s who at ICPA now Meet new executive director Elisabeth Sherrell and board members Alicia Bryant (Edgewell Personal Care) and Kelsey Moraski (global trade, supply chain, and risk). Why each of them joined the ICPA board and how they see the mission evolving.​ Why ICPA matters for your career How attending ICPA conferences helped Alicia earn her customs broker license and expand her role into broker auditing, FTAs, and classification. Why Kelsey calls ICPA one of the few places where people truly understand the real risk and gray areas compliance professionals live in every day.​ Inside the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference – San Antonio Dates: March 1–4, 2026 at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio on the River Walk. Theme: “Compliance Corazón – Fiesta of Global Trade” with a strong focus on community, culture, and practical problem solving. Content highlights: deep dives on Canada (including CARM and current China‑related developments), regional customs updates (e.g., Latin America sessions led by experts like Brenda Cordova), technology and AI in trade compliance, and navigating today’s “most exciting and challenging” era for trade.​ Registration is still open, but the hotel is smaller and spots are filling fast, with many attendees registering in the last 45 days. Virtual attendance remains an option for those who cannot travel.​ Culture, community, and the “Voices of Compliance” How ICPA grew from an idea shared by Elisabeth’s mom and co‑founder Linda into a global community where people show up for each other—professionally and personally. Plans to honor Elisabeth’s mother in San Antonio with a memorial moment and a new Voices of Compliance performance: a rewritten “Deep in the Heart of Texas” celebrating tariffs and trade (yes, with audience clapping).​ Stories of members supporting each other through life events and why “compliance with heart” isn’t just a tagline.​ Problem solving in person Why the real magic of ICPA happens in the hallways and at breakfast tables: people bring real problems, not just citations, and work through them together. Kelsey’s Alex Honnold analogy: compliance pros as the climbers who truly understand the risk, and ICPA as the rare room where everyone “speaks the same language.”​ Building the next generation of trade professionals How ICPA is actively bringing students and early‑career professionals into the fold, including full conference scholarships (like for student Jake Boggs, who left with multiple job offers). Elisabeth’s 20‑year vision: seeing “trade compliance professional” standing alongside firefighter and nurse on career day—and why she wants to introduce more young people to this path.​ Hot topics Alicia and Kelsey are watching at ICPA Technology and AI: why you can’t just “slap tech” on broken processes—garbage in, garbage out—and how companies are really rolling out tools in compliance. Volatility and gray areas: how different companies are interpreting risk, handling USMCA changes, and navigating fast‑moving geopolitical shifts, especially in Canada and beyond.​ ICPA Conference Details 2026 ICPA Annual Conference – Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade Dates: March 1–4, 2026 Location: Grand Hyatt San Antonio, River Walk Format: In‑person with virtual option Focus: Practical sessions, regional experts, technology, risk, and a strong emphasis on networking, mentorship, and community.​ ICPA Europe Conference Location: Dresden Germany, April 8-10, Hilton ​ Credits Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Elisabeth Sherrell, Alicia Bryant, Kelsey Moraski Producer: Lalo Solorzano Subscribe & Follow New Roundup episodes every week. Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. 👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com Connect with us: Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn | Global Training Center on LinkedIn | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Trade Geeks Community Questions about ICPA or the conference? Reach out to ICPA leadership or message us and we’ll connect you.

    31 min

  6. JAN 30

    [Cindy's Version] Exile feat.The United States

    Host: Cindy Allen Show: Simply Trade – Cindy’s Version Published: January 30, 2026 Length: ~13 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Exile: Is the U.S. Being Traded Around? In this week’s Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, unpacks one of the busiest weeks we’ve seen in international trade—and frames it all through the lens of Taylor Swift’s song “Exile.” From fresh tariff threats to shifting alliances and possible government shutdowns, Cindy explains why it’s starting to feel like the United States is watching global trade move on without us.​ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: New U.S. tariff threats tied to Cuban oil Announcement of tariffs on countries that sell or buy oil from Cuba and why this may largely hit usual suspects like Venezuela and Russia.​ Trade partners going “around” the U.S. How the UK’s outreach to China and Canada’s new deal with China signal a trend of countries pursuing their own economic interests directly with Beijing.​ Canada under pressure—again Trump’s 100% tariff threat on Canadian goods over the China deal and the newer threat to decertify Canadian-made jets until Gulfstream aircraft are certified in Canada—and why both moves raise legal and practical questions.​ Shifting tariff landscapes Guatemala and El Salvador trade deals and expected rate ranges. Possible hike back to 25% on South Korean goods if their trade deal isn’t approved. Potential rollback of the 25% tariff on India tied to Russian oil purchases.​ 232 duties and a big valuation court fight Why CBP centers are informally pushing an “all-in” cost model (materials, labor, manufacturing) for steel, aluminum, and now copper derivatives—and how that conflicts with the 232 declaration language. The new Court of International Trade case challenging that interpretation and what it could mean for importers paying 232 on components. Why many companies are considering filing protests now to preserve their rights pending the outcome—and why you need to talk to your own counsel.​ ACE refunds are coming—ready or not Electronic refunds are set to go live February 6. What importers need to do with their brokers and 4811 setup, and why brokers must confirm their own information is on file in ACE. The big question: what happens to refunds if the setup is incomplete?​ EU deal on pause Why the EU is putting its U.S. deal “on hold” and how that could trigger a return to higher tariffs if the U.S. responds like it has with South Korea.​ Hill updates: express couriers and DHS funding A new bill proposal for simplified declarations on express shipments under 600 dollars, and what it could mean if you use or compete with express couriers. The looming DHS/CBP funding issue, the likelihood of a shutdown, and what a shutdown typically means for cargo processing versus outreach and meetings.​ Why “Exile”? Cindy connects the week’s news to “Exile,” focusing on the line, “You were my town, now I’m in exile seeing you out.” She explores how U.S. policy is driven by a belief that the country has been taken advantage of and needs to re-shore manufacturing and secure critical sectors, while much of the world sees it as a pullback from free trade and trade facilitation that once underpinned global stability.​ By contrasting these two perspectives—like the two voices in the song—Cindy argues the U.S. risks finding itself “in exile” as trade partners build new frameworks around us, and warns that we’ve “seen this film before” in history with outcomes that weren’t ideal.​ Key Takeaways: Expect more volatility in tariffs and trade relationships as the U.S. pushes assertive trade tools and partners seek alternative paths.​ Importers dealing with 232 duties on steel, aluminum, and copper inputs should closely watch the new court case and coordinate with counsel on protest strategy.​ ACE electronic refunds are an opportunity and a risk—data and 4811 setups must be right to avoid missing money you’re owed.​ Even in a shutdown, cargo should keep moving, but engagement with CBP and DHS will be limited.​ Strategically, the U.S. may be drifting into a kind of trade “exile”—and it’s critical for companies to understand both the domestic narrative and how the rest of the world is reacting. --------  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/ ​

    13 min

  7. JAN 30

    Unlocking Trade Documents: How DocUnlock Uses AI to Tackle Compliance Chaos

    Hosts: Andy Shiles Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Jack Moberger, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Ned Cartmell, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Sepehr Fakour, Co-Founder, DocUnlock Published: January 2026 Length: ~40 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy and Lalo sit down with the founders of DocUnlock to explore one of the most painful realities in global trade: document chaos. From commercial invoices and packing lists to certificates, statements, and agency-specific requirements, trade compliance still lives in PDFs, emails, spreadsheets, and inboxes. Jack, Ned, and Sepehr break down how DocUnlock is using AI to extract, structure, validate, and operationalize trade documents — turning static paperwork into usable compliance data. The conversation dives into real-world brokerage and importer pain points, why “document accuracy” is no longer enough, and how automation is shifting expectations across customs, PGAs, and supply chain partners. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with high-volume imports, broker workflows, or compliance teams stretched thin. Key Takeaways Trade compliance is still dominated by unstructured documents — and that’s the bottleneck. AI can extract and normalize data without replacing trade expertise. Document automation reduces risk, speeds releases, and improves audit readiness. Brokers and importers benefit differently — but both win when documents are usable data. The future of compliance isn’t fewer documents — it’s smarter ones. What DocUnlock Is Solving Commercial invoices & packing lists Certificates & trade declarations Broker-importer document handoffs Audit readiness & data traceability Scaling compliance without scaling headcount Resources & Mentions DocUnlock – AI-powered trade document automation 👉 https://www.docunlock.com Jack Moberger, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmoberger/ Ned Cartmell, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-cartmell-91179711/ Sepehr Fakour, Co-Founder, DocUnlock 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-f/ Global Training Center – Trade & compliance education 👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/ Credits Hosts: Andy Shiles – https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Lalo Solorzano – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmoberger/ Ned Cartmell (DocUnlock) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-cartmell-91179711/ Sepehr Fakour (DocUnlock) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-f/ Produced by: Global Training Center – https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/ 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community: Global Training Center on LinkedIn 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-training-center?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on YouTube 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@simplytradepod?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Simply Trade on Apple Podcasts 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast Trade Geeks Community 👉 https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast

    39 min

  8. JAN 28

    [TIPS] Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators

    Episode Title: Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels) Published Date: January 27, 2026 Episode Length: ~11 minutes Series: Trade & Tech 🔍 Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive into duty mitigators and how technology is transforming the way trade professionals manage voluntary customs programs. From drawback and foreign trade zones to Chapter 98 provisions and free trade agreements, the conversation focuses on how tech-enabled subprocesses can reduce risk, improve compliance, and make mitigator programs operationally feasible. The key takeaway? Mitigators aren’t just about duty savings — they’re about building smart, data-driven compliance strategies that align labor, systems, and business objectives. 📌 Key Topics Covered What duty mitigators really are — and why they’re often misunderstood The role of voluntary programs in customs compliance How technology supports complex mitigators like: Drawback programs Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) Chapter 98 provisions (including TIBs and returns) Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) First Sale for Export Why accurate HTS classification is a mitigator in itself How tech helps create stronger business cases for mitigator programs In-house vs. outsourced compliance — and why tech matters in both 💡 Key Takeaways Mitigators require structured subprocesses — technology makes them scalable Tech connects core business systems so import and export data work together Good data in = good data out (and bad data creates risk fast) Mitigators shouldn’t be dismissed due to overhead — tech changes the math Asking vendors how they leverage technology can impact pricing and value 🛠️ This Week’s FIO (Figure It Out) Pick one mitigator and analyze it using your own data. Review your ACE data or internal trade data Identify one potential mitigator (drawback, FTZ, TIB, FTA, etc.) Determine if your import and export activity supports it Assess whether technology could make it viable and compliant Remember: not all mitigators apply to all duties — understanding eligibility is key. 🌐 Join the Conversation Be part of the discussion inside the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how your FIO analysis goes. We’ll be sharing episodes, insights, and real-world trade conversations there. 👉 Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/ 🎤 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? 📧 Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 🐦 Follow us on X (Twitter): @SimplyTradePod

    11 min
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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
    439
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Simply Trade

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