This episode explores the complex legal and regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis trade, with a focus on importing, exporting, and conducting cross-border business. Experts Vincent Sliwoski and Adams Lee break down the nuances of federal vs. state laws, and provide guidance on how companies can stay compliant. Main Points: - Overview of federal vs. state cannabis laws in the US - Rules for importing/exporting hemp vs. marijuana - Restrictions on transporting cannabis across international bor...
Dec 07, 2023•46 min•Ep. 132
This week we hit on the hidden challenges impacting supply chains worldwide. Stories discussing Russia's covert oil exports, forced labor threats, and transportation transformations - all while previewing a can't-miss webinar on navigating today's trade disruptions. Uncover valuable insights on geopolitics, compliance, and logistics by tuning in. Main Points: Forced Labor in Supply Chains The podcast discusses an article about how forced labor has been found in many supply chains and the challen...
Dec 04, 2023•25 min•Ep. 131
In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy and Lalo continue their discussion with Jackson Wood of Descartes on how companies can strengthen internal collaboration and supplier vetting processes to properly manage increasingly complex regulatory, reputation, and resiliency risks in global supply chains. Main Points: Governments providing less prescriptive guidance on "risky" suppliers, creating challenges for companies to identify all risks beyond just checking government lists One company had to cre...
Nov 30, 2023•29 min•Ep. 130
Digital Trade Policy Changes and the Impact on Business This episode discusses recent changes to US digital trade policy and the potential impact on businesses that engage in e-commerce, data flows, and digital transactions both domestically and internationally. Experts analyze the risks and opportunities as countries consider new regulations and taxes. Marianne Rowden of the E-Merchants Trade Council discusses her experience negotiating digital trade issues at the WTO and analyzes the strategic...
Nov 28, 2023•32 min•Ep. 129
Topics Discussed: - Singles Day and self-gifting trends - Analysis of Black Friday/Cyber Monday spending patterns and predictions - Port of Savannah sees decrease in cargo volumes compared to last year Key Insights: - Millennials are driving the majority of holiday spending due to economic pressures delaying purchases - "Self-gifting" is a rising trend as younger generations spend on themselves without children to buy for - Port volumes are down across the board, but Savannah remains a viable al...
Nov 27, 2023•28 min•Ep. 128
Thanksgiving Episode: Simply Trade hosts Andy and Lalo sit down with industry professionals and listeners on Thanksgiving Day to discuss and get feedback on the podcast. Listener Feedback Roundtable: Simply Trade hosts Andy and Lalo sit down with industry professionals and listeners to get their feedback on the podcast and ideas for future episodes. Main Discussion - Listeners discuss how Simply Trade provides an authentic perspective on complex trade topics. - Forced labor regulations and certi...
Nov 23, 2023•48 min•Ep. 127
Brenda Smith has spent decades advancing international trade. As this episode shows, her expertise comes from experience at the highest levels of government and private sector. Tune in for insights on collaboration, leadership, and a career journey that has shaped the industry. Main Points Brenda reflects on her path from graduate school to leading major initiatives at CBP like ACE development She discusses strategies for balancing responsibilities as a female leader and empowering high-performi...
Nov 21, 2023•52 min•Ep. 126
The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are taking action to reduce emissions from goods movement with $60 million available to purchase zero-emission trucks. Tune in to hear a discussion on the opportunities and challenges for greening international supply chains. Main Points - The LA and Long Beach ports will each contribute $30M from user fees to a "Clean Truck Fund" to support the purchase of zero-emission trucks. This could jumpstart a transition at a critical point in international supply cha...
Nov 20, 2023•28 min•Ep. 125
In this episode, Emily Cori from Woodland Group discusses strategies for complying with green trade initiatives and carbon reporting requirements. Topics include the CBP's green trade strategy, scopes of emissions reporting, offsetting emissions, and resources for importers and exporters. Key Takeaways: - CBP's green trade strategy has 4 pillars: incentivizing green trade, strengthening enforcement, accelerating innovation, and improving climate resilience - Emissions are categorized into Scope ...
Nov 16, 2023•53 min•Ep. 124
In this episode, guests from the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) discuss the looming threat of another US government shutdown and how it could severely impact international trade. Key Topics: - The differences in the current political climate compared to the last shutdown and why reaching a budget deal will be more challenging. - How specific government agencies like EPA would be affected and the regulatory delays importers could face if they're not deemed...
Nov 13, 2023•43 min•Ep. 123
In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Andy and Lalo discuss the opportunities and challenges small businesses face when looking to expand into international trade. Their guest, Laurent Kahl from the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center, shares valuable insights on the resources available to help companies navigate importing, exporting, and global growth. Key topics covered include: - The 90% of consumers that exist outside the US and untapped potential for American companies ...
Nov 09, 2023•30 min•Ep. 122
In this episode, Renee Chiuchiarelli shares over 30 years of experience in international trade compliance and her career journey. She details roles at companies like HoMedics, Teledyne, and Raytheon before contracting COVID-19, prompting self-reflection. Renee emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, continuing education and mentorship for career development. She highlights mentees who advanced with her guidance. When discussing leadership, Renee stresses mentoring others, especially wo...
Nov 07, 2023•40 min•Ep. 121
In this episode of the Simply Trade podcast, the hosts discuss recent news articles related to international trade. One article discusses the US halting exports of most civilian firearms for 90 days due to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza. Key Points: The US Department of Commerce issued a temporary halt on issuing export licenses for civilian firearms and ammunition to non-government entities. This aims to curb arms being sent to areas of conflict. Exceptions will be made for expo...
Nov 06, 2023•22 min•Ep. 120
In this episode, Joe Quinonez discusses how establishing a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) can generate economic development and jobs for local communities. Learn about the application process to become an FTZ grantee and how businesses can take advantage of duty savings and cash flow benefits. Joe explains the FTZ application process and requirements for communities looking to establish an FTZ. An overview of the benefits for manufacturers is provided using the example of importing bicycle parts and e...
Nov 02, 2023•40 min•Ep. 119
This episode discusses strategies importers can use to prevent forced labor and comply with regulations like the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). Todd Smith of KYG Trade shares how technology can help map supply chains, vet suppliers, and quickly provide documentation to rebut forced labor claims. Key Topics: - Understanding "rebuttable presumption" and the 30 day deadline to prove no forced labor - Why manual audits can't keep up - the need for supply chain mapping and data integrati...
Nov 01, 2023•45 min•Ep. 118
On this Halloween episode of Simply Trade, host Larry Hanson shares a chilling true story of a company that failed to follow international trade regulations. What started as a routine investigation turned into threats of decades in prison. Main Points The importance of supplier due diligence and verifying country of origin claims How ignoring customs inquiries can escalate issues into criminal cases Contracts should address tariff risks beyond a supplier's control Why engaging trade counsel earl...
Oct 31, 2023•51 min•Ep. 117
In this episode of Simply Trade, host Annik discusses the latest trade news with co-hosts Andy and Lalo. Topics include a potential trade deal between Australia and the EU that has farmers concerned, China placing new restrictions on graphite exports, and ongoing US export controls on chip-making equipment. Trade professionals, business owners, and those interested in global economics will learn about: - A dispute over import quotas in a proposed Australia-EU trade deal and how it may impact far...
Oct 30, 2023•23 min•Ep. 116
Join us for an engaging conversation with Timothy Dooner of the 'What The Truck' podcast as we dive into major shifts and emerging trends in the freight industry. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of the current freight industry, discussing the challenges faced by smaller players, the importance of diversification, and the vested responsibilities of truckers for ensuring safety. As a bonus, we also touch upon issues like road rage and the crucial role dash cams can play in conflict...
Oct 27, 2023•53 min•Ep. 115
In this episode of 'Simply Trade', we explore the interesting intersection of e-commerce and small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs). With digital sales channels becoming increasingly mainstream, this episode provides an insightful discussion on how SMEs can navigate through the complexity of international trade and keep abreast of their industry's ever-changing landscape. Featuring guest expert, Maureen Cori, with hosts Andy and Lalo guiding the conversation, this episode unravels important th...
Oct 26, 2023•50 min•Ep. 114
In this episode we continue our series of Forced Labor Regulations, this time talking with service providers that have experienced first hand with their clients the challenges of importing products when CBP has identified them as Forced Labor. Our expert guests, Robert Kossick and Fred Rocafort, help unpack and navigate the regulations surrounding forced labor. They provide invaluable advice, detailed insights, and practical strategies for staying compliant. Key topics discussed include: Underst...
Oct 24, 2023•38 min•Ep. 113
In this episode we discuss various trade-related topics, including the launch of the Global Carbon Price Task Force by the World Trade Organization (WTO), the importance of renewing FDA registration for medical device facilities, and the benefits of USMCA certification. Main Points WTO's Global Carbon Price Task Force The WTO is working on a global carbon pricing mechanism to keep developing countries competitive and ensure fairness. The discussion revolves around whether this would be fair for ...
Oct 23, 2023•25 min•Ep. 112
Welcome to another compelling episode of our FOLKS edition of our podcast—this one featuring guest Jennifer Diaz. An internationally acclaimed Board Certified lawyer and Chambers Ranked, she shares with us her incredible story on how she became an international attorney! Key Discussion Points: Building a Career Track: Journey alongside Jennifer as she retraces her early influences and driving motivations that spurred her passion for law and led her to carve out a unique career path in internatio...
Oct 20, 2023•50 min•Ep. 111
This episode's guest, Jackson Wood, the Director of Industry Strategy for global trade intelligence at Descartes Systems Group joins us for a discussion about emerging regulations and how they're shaping the international trade landscape. Main Points The conversation with Jackson Wood give listeners an understanding of his role at Descartes and how the company is solving emerging challenges in trade compliance management and corporate image reputation risks. Wood talks about the "new paradigm" i...
Oct 19, 2023•47 min•Ep. 110
In this episode we continue with our Forced Labor series and focus on the impact of forced labor regulations on international trade, with a particular emphasis on Mexico. Our special guest, Francisco De La Cruz, a former Mexican customs official turned legal counsel will provide on-ground insights on this critical topic. Main Points Forced labor issue, especially focusing on the Mexican perspective. As a part of the USMCA treaty, Mexico, along with Canada and the U.S., is required to implement a...
Oct 17, 2023•41 min•Ep. 109
This episode of Simply Trade brings our hosts into a deep discussion about the current economic situation related to the conflicts in the Middle East, particularly regarding the potential implications for global trade, oil prices, and U.S. inflation. Main Points: Concerns about the potential impacts of conflict escalation in the Middle East on global oil prices and shipping through critical chokepoints like the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz. The hosts delve into the complexities of interna...
Oct 16, 2023•22 min•Ep. 108
In this episode, Nathan Pritikin, a professional in IT and contract manufacturing, joins us to discuss workforce development and the current employment challenges facing various industries, including logistics, transportation, and IT. They explore the impact of COVID-19 on the employee supply chain and how businesses can adapt to these changes. Main Points Workforce challenges across industries: Nathan, Andy, and Lalo agree that there's a noticeable employee shortage, whether it comes to skilled...
Oct 12, 2023•47 min•Ep. 107
Welcome to another episode of Simply Trade's Forced Labor series of shows. This week our special guest, Ana Hinojosa, discusses the critical topic of forced labor and its impact on global trade. The episode covers the recent implementation of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act in the US, alongside similar laws enacted in Canada and Mexico. Main Points The impact of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act in the US Canada and Mexico's forced labor prevention laws Challenges in implementing for...
Oct 10, 2023•50 min•Ep. 106
This Simply Trade podcast episode delves into the dynamic world of international trade with its accomplishments, disputes, and the looming unknowns. Main Topics: US-EU Steel Aluminum Deal: The hosts explore the unfolding US-EU steel aluminum deal, its pathways and potential impacts. They also delve into the implications of the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) and its effects on the cost of US goods in European markets. EU's Green Tariffs: Andy reveals the contentious face of the EU...
Oct 09, 2023•22 min•Ep. 105
This episode looks at the Canadian Border Services Agency's Assessment and Revenue Management system, better known as 'CARM.' With industry veteran Kim Campbell sharing her expertise on this subject matter, you'll learn more about CARM—and may even have questions answered! Main Points The episode heavily focuses on CARM, a significant component of the modernization agenda. CARM, unlike its manual predecessor, automates the accounting process, thereby making progress from a largely paper-based sy...
Oct 05, 2023•46 min•Ep. 104
Get set for an intriguing journey as we launch our thought-provoking series on Forced Labor - set to captivate your Tuesdays for the following weeks! Each episode offers candid conversations with industry experts who bring to life different facets of the fight against Forced Labor. From unraveling complex issues to revealing key strategies, we've got it all covered! Join us on this enlightening journey and equip yourself with valuable insights to be compliant and meet Forced Labor trade regulati...
Oct 03, 2023•42 min•Ep. 103
