How leading companies are using data-driven strategies to cut costs and improve supply chain visibility. On this episode of Simply Trade, Angela Czajkowski of Hartman Advisory shares how organizations can maximize existing systems and leverage new data sources to gain real-time visibility and make smarter decisions across international trade operations. Angela emphasizes that "AI is not a magic bullet" and stresses the importance of data governance before implementing new technologies. She also ...
Jun 06, 2024•55 min•Ep. 192
The global trade landscape continues to shift rapidly. This week's episode provides valuable insights on addressing ongoing supply chain challenges. Key Takeaways: - US advances bill restricting AI exports to China over security concerns - Geopolitical tensions and weather events disrupt global logistics - Diversifying suppliers can increase supply chain resiliency - Standardizing trade data and single window systems can streamline customs Andy shares first-hand experience developing barcode and...
Jun 03, 2024•28 min•Ep. 191
Want to import goods to the US but find regulations bewildering? This episode will decode the hidden rules of customs compliance through insights from a seasoned broker. Global trade expert Andy and Lalo sit down with customs pro Adrian Gonzalez to unpack the complexities of US import regulations. From declarations to trade remedies, learn the essentials importers need to navigate customs. Main Takeaways: 1. Provide accurate info to customs and know agency priorities like ag and trade remedies. ...
May 30, 2024•48 min•Ep. 190
When protectionism backfires and forced labor is discovered - learn how import rules and supplier oversight impact international trade. Annik, Andy and Lalo discuss recent trade news including Indonesia's import backlog caused by new protectionist policies and BMW Mini Coopers potentially using forced labor in Chinese manufacturing. Main Topics: - Indonesia's import restrictions aimed at protecting local industries are backfiring, causing a 29,000 container cargo pileup at ports. - China imposes...
May 27, 2024•30 min•Ep. 189
Are spreadsheets swallowing your compliance team whole? Learn how leading companies tame vast data volumes with AI-powered software. Andy and Lalo sit down with Grant Sernick of 3rdwave and Josh Blinkick to discuss the challenges of managing ever-growing trade compliance data. As regulations expand, how can importers streamline complex processes and support overwhelmed teams? Main Topics: - Spreadsheets swell beyond 150 columns as importers track hundreds of data points - Gaining control over ch...
May 23, 2024•47 min•Ep. 188
Stay on top of ever-changing trade regulations and global issues with this roundup of the latest news from the Simply Trade podcast In this episode of the Simply Trade podcast, host Annik talks to Andy, and Lalo about the latest developments in US-China trade relations, including new restrictions on Chinese cotton imports and increased tariffs. They also cover an AI meeting between the US and China, updates on electric vehicles, and more. Main Topics: - US blocks imports from 26 Chinese cotton t...
May 20, 2024•22 min•Ep. 187
Potential Supply Chain Disruptions Under Canada's New Import Rules One truck carrying 30,000 parcels arrives at the Canadian border under new import regulations - but only 30% can pass through freely while the other 70% faces delays due to lack of compliance. This episode of the Simply Trade podcast examines Canada's CARM modernization project through discussions with trade experts Kim Campbell and Alan Dewar. CARM aims to digitize import processes but its new rules and requirements could impact...
May 16, 2024•48 min•Ep. 186
Global Trade is complex with many moving parts. This episode of Simply Trade unpacks some of the latest developments. The IMF warns that the growing divide between the US and China trade blocs could hurt worldwide growth. Guests discuss the challenges low-income nations face and how improved relations could help. Peloton claims unfair shipping charges, but effective planning and clear documentation are key to smooth customs. Learn tips to minimize delays from a trade compliance expert. New US po...
May 13, 2024•29 min•Ep. 185
Expanding Your Cross-Border Business - Insider Advice on Capitalizing on Opportunities Across North America In this episode of Simply Trade, expert consultant Alberto Villareal shares invaluable lessons from over a decade helping multinational companies establish operations between the US and Mexico. Listen in to learn cultural factors, industries, locations, and relationship-building tips critical for international success. Main Points: - Cultural aspects like employee wellness boost Mexican ma...
May 09, 2024•57 min•Ep. 184
Trade Conference Insights to Power Your Business Growth This episode provides invaluable insights from industry leaders on navigating the ever-changing trade landscape. Learn how to gain a strategic advantage from top experts speaking at the AAEI Annual Conference. Main Takeaways: - How to effectively communicate trade issues to leadership to drive strategic planning - Advocacy best practices for the upcoming election year's trade policies - Translating complex regulations into actionable insigh...
May 07, 2024•34 min•Ep. 183
Learn how truck inspections at the US-Mexico border are impacting cross-border trade and how companies like Volvo are navigating international trade regulations. Context: On this episode of Simply Trade, Annik, Andy, and Lalo discuss recent news articles related to international trade. Topics include increased truck inspections at the US-Mexico border, Volvo's entry into the US electric vehicle market, US-China trade tensions, and potential retaliation from Russia over US sanctions. Main Topics:...
May 06, 2024•28 min•Ep. 182
How is the opioid crisis impacting customs enforcement? Tune in as top trade experts reveal new threats at the border and what it means for your business. In this episode, we sit down with a panel of international trade leaders after the recent Trade Symposium hosted by Customs and Border Protection. They share key learnings on the evolving regulatory landscape and challenges customs faces. Main Points: - Heavy focus on stemming the flow of deadly fentanyl, with pill presses disguising themselve...
May 02, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 181
Navigating Global Trade Gets Trickier - Insights on China's Espionage, Brexit Border Controls, and Mitigating Risks Annik, Lalo and Andy discuss the latest international trade news, including concerns over Chinese espionage in Europe, China's anti-dumping taxes, and new Brexit border rules. Main Topics: - China's alleged spying in Germany raises questions about foreign interference and political vulnerability - How can transparency be increased while minimizing risks of manipulation? - China use...
Apr 29, 2024•23 min•Ep. 180
Lindsay Forbes from Schultz Law Firm warns companies to be vigilant as government enforcement ramps up. On this episode, we discuss key takeaways from the recent Bureau of Industry and Security conference with trade compliance expert Lindsay Forbes. Lindsay shares insights on navigating heightened regulations, interagency cooperation, and best practices for importers and exporters. Main Topics: - Increased focus on Russia and China exports requires extra diligence from companies. - Thorough vett...
Apr 25, 2024•47 min•Ep. 179
In this episode of Simply Trade, publisher Jim Bartlett shares invaluable insights for importers and exporters. As the expert behind The Daily Bugle newsletter, he discusses navigating regulatory changes and connecting with enforcement agencies. Main Points: - Tips for passing the challenging customs broker exam, including recommended preparation courses - How The Daily Bugle newsletter keeps readers up-to-date on changing laws and regulations - Valuable job and event listings plus opportunities...
Apr 22, 2024•42 min•Ep. 178
As global trade increases, so do cyber threats to the maritime industry. Learn how ports, ships, and supply chains are vulnerable - and what's being done to secure this critical infrastructure. Amy Strauss of DHS and Nick Reese of Frontier Foundry discuss cyber risks facing maritime transportation with Simply Trade podcast hosts Andy and Lalo. They explore vulnerabilities, potential attacks, and partnerships to strengthen cyber defenses for international trade. Main Points: - Navigation systems,...
Apr 18, 2024•47 min•Ep. 177
Navigating geopolitical tensions - Learn how companies can prepare for unpredictable sanctions and ensure resilient international supply chains. This episode of Simply Trade discusses recent geopolitical developments affecting international trade, including new EU methane emission limits, China's sanctions on US defense firms, and enhanced US-Japan security collaboration to counter China's influence. Experts provide best practices for companies doing business globally. Main Topics: - EU methane ...
Apr 16, 2024•28 min•Ep. 176
In the premiere episode of their new Canadian trade focused podcast, Simply Trade welcomes international trade expert Kim Campbell. As a former Canadian customs official and leader in the compliance community, Kim shares crucial updates on Canada's controversial new customs system, CARM. Main Topics: - Overview of CARM and long delays in implementing the new customs system - Relief over reversed policies that threatened major border disruption - Concerns about lack of testing prior to the "big b...
Apr 11, 2024•46 min•Ep. 175
Customs brokers discuss strategies for staying compliant in an evolving policy landscape. Importers and exporters face constant changes impacting how they move goods across borders. This episode of Simply Trade unpacks the legislative process and examines hot-button issues through the lens of industry experts. De minimis shipments: A complex conundrum Customs brokers debate solutions for verifying low-value imports, with some advocating for designated U.S. responsibility to improve security. Oth...
Apr 10, 2024•52 min•Ep. 174
Navigating complex international trade issues - This episode examines challenges and opportunities in US-China biotech collaboration, Brexit import charges impacting UK food prices, and perspectives on fair and open global trade. Renee Chuichiarelli joins Annik and Andy for an insightful discussion on recent international trade news. Topics include lawmakers pressing for scrutiny of Chinese biotech firms, Brexit import fees raising food costs in the UK, and balancing national security with globa...
Apr 08, 2024•27 min•Ep. 173
This episode analyzes the latest findings from Thomson Reuters' annual global trade survey report. Guests Karen Lobdell and Andrew Moxon from Thomson Reuters share insights on challenges, priorities, and trends impacting global trade professionals based on feedback from over 175 industry respondents. Main Topics - Emerging environmental regulations posing new complexities for cross-border trade compliance - Supply chain security and data protection among the top drivers of technology investment ...
Apr 04, 2024•53 min•Ep. 172
How can companies prepare for and respond to major supply chain disruptions like the recent ship collision that blocked a key US port? Tune in to this episode of Simply Trade to find out. This episode of Simply Trade discusses the impact of the recent ship collision that blocked the critical Port of Baltimore, as well as other supply chain disruptions from cyber espionage and shifting trade routes. Experts provide advice on insurance, contingency planning, cybersecurity, and diversification. Mai...
Apr 01, 2024•28 min•Ep. 171
Getting lawmakers' eyes wide open to the benefits of Foreign Trade Zones. Hear from NAFTZ on educating Congress through their successful advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill. The National Association of Foreign Trade Zones (NAFTZ) held their annual Legislative Summit in DC, where multiple teams met with over 40 congressional offices to discuss key issues facing the FTZ industry. We'll cover their strategic approach and top priorities for supporting international trade, importing, and exporting. Main...
Mar 28, 2024•46 min•Ep. 170
Annik, Andy and Lalo return with insights from the ICPA conference on building strong compliance cultures and leveraging new technologies like AI. Tune in to hear key learnings on Boeing's recent export violations and how companies can avoid similar issues. Main Points - Learn from Boeing's $51 million settlement for unauthorized data transfers, and why internal compliance buy-in is critical - Understand the growing role of AI in supply chain and trade compliance functions - Gain insights on cha...
Mar 25, 2024•29 min•Ep. 169
Looking to streamline your global trade? Tune in to learn how the Trade Support Network collaborates with CBP to modernize customs processes through data-driven initiatives. Key stakeholders discuss ongoing efforts to facilitate cross-border commerce through standards development and trusted trader programs. Main Points - The TSN supports CBP by providing technical expertise and trade perspectives on projects like AES 2.0, de minimis rules, and pre-arrival data sharing. - CBP is working to invol...
Mar 21, 2024•50 min•Ep. 168
Trade professionals tune in to hear the latest global trade news and analysis. This episode of Simply Trade covers state-level trade deals between the UK and US, cybersecurity risks in ports, and flourishing China-Russia trade despite sanctions. Main Points - We are talking about a UK-Texas trade pact and its potential to strengthen broader economic ties between Britain and the United States. - Andy expresses concern over Chinese-made cranes in US ports presenting cyber vulnerabilities that coul...
Mar 18, 2024•19 min•Ep. 167
Are you really sure what products and technologies your company is working with? Gabrielle Griffith of BPE Global explains how a seemingly simple "cake" recipe could actually be subject to strict export controls depending on its ingredients and applications. Tune in to learn how to map your supply chain and identify any potential compliance risks. Main Points: - Gabrielle emphasizes starting with a product matrix to fully understand what you have in your facility - She uses the example of a "cak...
Mar 14, 2024•46 min•Ep. 166
Attacks on container ships in the Red Sea and Middle East are causing major disruptions to global trade routes. In this episode, we discuss the impacts with John Gould of the National Retail Federation, who has testified before Congress on these issues. John shares insights into how rerouting vessels around Africa is adding significant time and costs to international supply chains. Main Points: - Attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen are forcing ships to avoid the Red Sea, taking routes over 10,000 ...
Mar 13, 2024•52 min•Ep. 165
Forced labor remains a global issue impacting trade. This episode explores recent regulations and legal cases targeting exploitative practices. We'll also discuss the growing role and leadership of women in international business. Main Points - The EU's new forced labor ban and increased enforcement efforts - Investigating supply chains is key to compliance with regulations - Market manipulation concerns in Canada's critical metals industry - A US court case challenging customs detention of Chin...
Mar 11, 2024•28 min•Ep. 164
As geopolitical risks intensify worldwide, importers and exporters face growing challenges staying compliant. Trade expert Lila Landis shares insights on navigating these turbulent waters through risk assessment, regulatory awareness, and building robust compliance programs. Main Points - Top compliance trends for the election year, including trade deal impacts and C-suite advice - Enforcing import/export regulations like forced labor detentions valued over $1B - Understanding new FMC ocean ship...
Mar 07, 2024•42 min•Ep. 163