Simply Trade

Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Hal Berman and John Petitte Published: September 17, 2026 Length: 38:47 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Tariff engineering isn't just a compliance exercise—it can become a powerful strategy for reducing landed costs, improving sourcing decisions, and strengthening profitability. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome back Hal Berman and John Petitte of Trade Insight for a practical discussion about how companies can approach tariff engineering as a cross-functional business initiative. The conversation explores why successful duty optimization requires much more than finding a different tariff classification. Engineering, sourcing, procurement, finance, operations, tax, supply chain, and compliance may all hold pieces of the information needed to determine whether a change actually makes financial sense. Hal and John share examples involving product design, component sourcing, final assembly, free trade agreements, and duty exposure to illustrate how relatively small changes can potentially produce meaningful savings. They also discuss the role of AI as a research and productivity tool for trained trade professionals—not as a replacement for human judgment. The bigger lesson: companies can get more value when trade considerations enter the product lifecycle earlier, rather than waiting until goods reach the border. Main Topic / Discussion Tariff engineering is the process of evaluating how legitimate changes to a product's design, materials, sourcing, manufacturing, assembly, or supply chain can affect tariff treatment and overall landed cost. The discussion emphasizes that effective tariff engineering requires a holistic view. A lower duty rate alone doesn't necessarily make a change worthwhile. Companies must consider supplier agreements, manufacturing costs, labor, logistics, tax implications, compliance requirements, and other costs before determining the actual return on investment. Build a Cross-Functional Team Compliance may help lead the analysis, but the necessary information often lives throughout the organization. Engineering understands product design. Procurement and sourcing understand suppliers and contracts. Finance can evaluate ROI. Operations and supply chain understand manufacturing and logistics constraints. Executive sponsorship can help these groups work toward the same objective instead of leaving compliance to pursue optimization opportunities alone. Start Small and Build a Repeatable Process Rather than reviewing every SKU at once, the conversation suggests identifying products associated with significant duty spend and evaluating specific opportunities. Even when the first project doesn't uncover savings, the exercise can establish a repeatable framework: which questions need to be asked, who owns the information, what constraints matter, and which stakeholders need to participate. Over time, tariff considerations can move earlier in the product lifecycle and potentially become part of product and supply-chain design. AI as a Trade Professional's Tool AI and technology can help trade professionals research classifications and analyze much larger product libraries, but the episode stresses the importance of human involvement and transparent reasoning. The objective is to give trained professionals better tools, clearer supporting rationale, and greater capacity—not simply automate away the compliance function. Key Takeaways • Tariff engineering goes beyond finding a lower duty rate; companies should evaluate total landed cost and overall ROI. • The strongest opportunities can involve product design, materials, sourcing, manufacturing location, final assembly, free trade agreements, and other special tariff provisions. • Compliance cannot effectively execute tariff optimization alone. Engineering, finance, sourcing, procurement, operations, supply chain, tax, and other stakeholders may need to participate. • Executive sponsorship can help transform tariff optimization from an isolated compliance project into an ongoing cross-functional business process. • Starting with high-duty products can create a manageable pilot project and establish a framework that can later be repeated across additional SKUs. • Bringing trade considerations into the product-development process earlier can give engineers and sourcing teams additional information when making design and supplier decisions. • AI can expand research and classification capacity, but trained trade professionals and human judgment remain central to defensible compliance decisions. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Hal Berman on LinkedIn • John Petitte on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Hal Berman - LinkedIn John Petitte - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Arthur O'Meara Published: September 16, 2026 Length: ~12 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What separates a good tariff classifier from a great one? According to longtime Global Training Center instructor Arthur O'Meara, it comes down to mastering the fundamentals—and consistently following a process. In week two of this Simply Trade Tips series, host Lalo Solorzano and Arthur dig into tariff classification and the details trade professionals can't afford to overlook. Arthur highlights two essential tools: the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) and the notes that accompany the Harmonized System, including section notes and chapter notes. Those notes can define materials, establish boundaries, identify exclusions, and ultimately change where a product belongs. But knowing the rules is only part of the equation. Arthur explains why importers should have a documented tariff classification process that reflects what they actually do—and then follow that process consistently as part of practicing reasonable care. The conversation also tackles AI and classification. AI can be useful, but Arthur warns against confirmation bias and illustrates why human review and sound classification methodology remain critical. The takeaway is simple: have a process, follow it, and read the notes. Main Topic / Discussion Tariff classification is a game of details. Arthur identifies two areas that can elevate a classifier's work: understanding the six General Rules of Interpretationand consistently consulting the relevant section and chapter notes. Those notes aren't just supplementary reading. They can provide definitions, establish exclusions, and determine whether a product can even be classified in a particular chapter. Arthur illustrates this with materials such as plastic and rubber and explains how something as seemingly straightforward as changing the material of a gasket can affect its classification. Beyond individual classification decisions, Arthur emphasizes the importance of a documented tariff classification process. The process should reflect what the company actually does and be followed consistently. The episode closes with a caution about AI. Asking an AI system to justify a classification you've already selected can reinforce your assumptions rather than independently establish that the classification is correct. Arthur's point is not to ignore technology, but to maintain a defensible process and meaningful human review. Key Takeaways • Master the GRIs: The six General Rules of Interpretation provide the framework for navigating tariff classification. • Read the notes: Section and chapter notes can contain definitions, exclusions, and other details that materially affect classification. • Document your classification process: Arthur recommends creating a process that reflects what your organization actually does and following it consistently. • Watch for confirmation bias with AI: Don't simply give an AI tool the tariff number you want and ask it to build an argument supporting your conclusion. Use sound classification methodology and human review. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Arthur O'Meara - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: September 11, 2026 Length: ~27 min. Presented by: Global Training Center Summary International trade is entering another major transformation—and according to Cindy Allen, trade professionals need to learn how to “be the willow and bend with the wind.” In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy returns from the Customs Trade Cargo Security Summit in Dallas with a firsthand look at where CBP and the administration are taking U.S. trade policy, enforcement, and modernization. The message from government leadership was clear: economic security is national security, importing is increasingly being treated as a privilege, and greater supply-chain visibility will be central to the next era of compliance. Cindy breaks down five major themes from the summit, including the push to illuminate supply chains back to raw materials, changes to importer verification, the expanding responsibilities of trade participants, and the growing importance of CTPAT. She also explores how AI and ACE modernization could help CBP and compliant businesses work faster and smarter. The direction of travel is becoming clearer. For importers, brokers, manufacturers, and other trade professionals, now is the time to understand how their responsibilities—and their compliance programs—may need to evolve. This Week in Trade • CBP and the administration are increasingly connecting economic security with national security. • Full supply-chain visibility and traceability are moving toward becoming fundamental compliance expectations. • Importer verification, country-of-origin determinations, and participation in programs such as CTPAT may evolve significantly. • AI, ACE modernization, and greater use of technology could reshape both CBP operations and private-sector trade compliance. Main Topic / Discussion Cindy breaks down five major messages she took away from the Customs Trade Cargo Security Summit and what they could mean for the future of international trade compliance. 1. The Administration's Trade Goal The administration is pursuing an America First policy framework that could lead to changes in policy guidance, regulations, and eventually trade laws. One of the clearest messages Cindy heard was that importing is being treated as a privilege rather than a right. At the same time, CBP does not want to stop legitimate trade. The objective is to better identify risk while allowing compliant trade to move more efficiently. Economic security and national security are becoming increasingly intertwined, with domestic manufacturing capacity playing an important role in that strategy. 2. Illuminate Your Supply Chain Supply-chain visibility is becoming a critical compliance issue. Trade participants should increasingly expect to understand their supply chains beyond immediate suppliers—including products, manufacturing locations, and potentially the origins of raw materials. Forced-labor enforcement is one driver, but Cindy explains why this visibility could also become important as the government revisits country-of-origin rules and other trade requirements. The takeaway: companies should not wait for full traceability to become an explicit requirement before investing in the systems and processes needed to achieve it. 3. Know Who Is Participating in Trade CBP wants greater visibility not only into what enters the United States, but also who participates in the transaction. Importer-of-record verification is one area receiving attention. Cindy discusses the current 5106 process, CBP's efforts to eliminate inactive importer records, and why additional information about importers and other supply-chain participants could become part of future requirements. CBP is also considering how better participant information can improve risk segmentation and programs such as CTPAT. 4. The Role of Trade Professionals Is Changing “Trade is a team sport” was a recurring message at the summit. CBP increasingly sees importers, customs brokers, and other trade participants as partners in identifying suspicious behavior, understanding supply-chain risks, and protecting U.S. economic security. For trade professionals, that could mean looking beyond traditional transaction-level compliance and developing a stronger understanding of geopolitical developments, enforcement trends, and broader business risks. Cindy encourages companies to connect their trade teams with regulatory, legislative, and other internal stakeholders to build a more complete picture of emerging risks. 5. Technology and AI CBP is envisioning a future in which legitimate trade becomes quicker and easier while suspicious shipments and actors become easier to identify. ACE modernization, cloud technology, reduced duplication of data, and artificial intelligence are all expected to play roles in that transformation. AI does not eliminate the need for human oversight. Instead, Cindy describes the emerging model as a “human in the loop,” where technology analyzes information and helps professionals become faster and more effective while people remain responsible for reviewing accuracy and making critical decisions. Key Takeaways • Economic security is increasingly being treated as an essential component of U.S. national security and trade policy. • Supply-chain traceability—from finished goods potentially back to raw-material origins—is becoming an increasingly important compliance capability. • Importer verification and visibility into everyone participating in trade could expand as CBP develops new approaches to risk segmentation. • Trade professionals should prepare for broader responsibilities while using AI, ACE modernization, and other technology to improve visibility, efficiency, and compliance. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Trade Force Multiplier • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) • Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) • Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) • Trade & Cargo Security Summit • Section 232 and Section 301 trade actions Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Michael Laden Published: September 11, 2026 Length: 40:24 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, U.S. Customs faced an unprecedented challenge: protect the country from another attack without bringing legitimate international trade to a standstill. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Michael Laden, one of the original private-sector architects who helped shape what became the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT). At the time, Michael was a senior trade executive at Target, overseeing a massive global supply chain involving thousands of vendors across 84 countries. The morning after the attacks, he sent a short email to U.S. Customs offering to help. Within 20 minutes, his phone rang. That call would eventually put Michael in meetings with Customs officials and approximately 50 experts from across the international trade community as they worked at extraordinary speed to rethink cargo security. Michael shares the story from inside those rooms: the lessons Customs learned about global supply chains, why the private sector insisted CTPAT remain voluntary, the role of the original seven charter members, and how Target discovered that stronger security could actually make its supply chain more efficient. Twenty-five years later, this is the story of how crisis, collaboration, and practical trade experience helped reshape supply chain security. Main Topic / Discussion When Trade Changed Overnight Following the September 11 attacks, Customs elevated security to its highest priority. Inspections intensified, border traffic slowed dramatically, and just-in-time supply chains began breaking down. Michael recalls watching the attacks from Target's offices and realizing later that evening that international trade was about to change. The following morning, he emailed Bonni Tischler, then Assistant Commissioner for Field Operations at the U.S. Customs Service, offering to help from his positions at Target, COAC, and AAEI. Within approximately 20 minutes, he received a call asking him to come to Washington as soon as flights resumed. Separating the Known From the Unknown Michael's central idea was straightforward: Customs needed a way to distinguish trusted, known companies and supply chains from unknown and potentially higher-risk shipments. He pointed to the Business Anti-Smuggling Coalition (BASC), an existing initiative designed to harden supply chains against narcotics smuggling, and suggested adapting the concept to address terrorism on a global scale. That idea became part of the foundation for what ultimately developed into CTPAT. Teaching Customs How Supply Chains Really Worked One of Michael's most revealing stories comes from a meeting with Customs investigators. Officials wanted Target to guarantee that every shipment entering the United States was completely secure. Michael explained the enormous complexity behind such a request: Target worked with approximately 15,000 vendors across 84 countries. The exchange exposed a critical knowledge gap. Customs understood what happened when cargo arrived at a U.S. port of entry, but the agency needed private-sector expertise to understand everything that happened upstream throughout a global supply chain. Building CTPAT at “Warp Speed” COAC convened approximately 50 private-sector experts representing importers, exporters, brokers, freight forwarders, ports, truckers, airlines, and other parts of international transportation. Working alongside Customs, the group examined individual supply-chain modes and helped develop the framework that became CTPAT. Michael also describes debate inside government over which agency should control incoming cargo and explains why members of the trade community strongly advocated for Customs to retain that responsibility. The program was formally launched on April 16, 2002, with seven charter members Commissioner Robert Bonner referred to as the “Magnificent Seven.” Why CTPAT Was Voluntary According to Michael, the trade community strongly pushed for CTPAT to begin as a voluntary partnership. The reasoning was important: a mandatory system would put every importer into essentially the same regulatory pool. A voluntary program could instead reward companies willing to invest in stronger security while allowing Customs to focus greater scrutiny on companies and supply chains outside the program. Security That Improved the Business When Michael asked Target leadership to support the initiative, executives naturally wanted to know what it would cost. The surprising result was that some changes made to secure Target's supply chain actually saved money. The company identified redundancies, improved transportation processes, increased efficiency, and strengthened security at the same time. For Michael, that remains an important lesson for companies evaluating CTPAT today: supply-chain security does not necessarily have to come at the expense of operational efficiency. Key Takeaways • CTPAT grew from an urgent post-9/11 need to secure international supply chains without stopping legitimate global commerce. • Government could not secure the international supply chain alone. The program required collaboration with the companies, carriers, logistics providers, and professionals who actually operated those supply chains. • Michael Laden's early recommendation to adapt concepts from BASC helped frame a system in which Customs could better separate known, trusted supply chains from unknown risks. • Twenty-five years later, CTPAT demonstrates how security and trade facilitation can reinforce each other—and how stronger supply-chain controls can sometimes create operational efficiencies rather than simply additional costs. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Michael Laden — “The Genesis of the U.S. C-TPAT Program” • Robert Bonner — Testimony Before the 9/11 Commission • The Washington Post — “Nation to Boost Anti-Terrorism Precautions” • Voice of America — “New Security Measures Cause Traffic Jams at U.S.–Mexico Border” • Voice of America — “September Terror Attacks Tighten U.S.–Mexico Border” • UTEP/El Paso Borderplex Research Compilation • Michael Laden — “C-TPAT Off the Rails” • CBP — Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Michael Laden - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles Guest(s): Anders Lillevik Published: September 10, 2026 Length: Approx. 34 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Procurement and trade compliance may sit in different departments, but today's volatile global environment makes it increasingly difficult for them to operate independently. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Anders Lillevik, Founder and CEO of Focal Point and a procurement veteran with more than 25 years of experience, to explore how procurement, compliance, risk, and logistics can work together to build stronger and more resilient supply chains. Anders explains why understanding your direct suppliers is no longer enough. Organizations need visibility into the suppliers, subcontractors, geographic dependencies, and risks hiding further down the supply chain. The conversation explores supplier diversification, changing tariffs, transportation disruptions, internal bureaucracy, compliance requirements, and why companies need contingency plans before the next crisis arrives. The group also discusses an often-overlooked opportunity: bringing trade compliance into the procurement process earlier. From classification and product descriptions to supplier vetting and sourcing decisions, collaboration before a purchase order is issued can prevent delays and costly surprises later. For trade professionals, procurement leaders, logistics teams, and executives, this episode offers a practical framework for identifying risk and preparing your organization to respond faster when disruption hits. Main Topic / Discussion Modern procurement is no longer simply about finding the lowest-cost supplier. Organizations must balance cost, compliance, risk, resilience, transportation, supplier capacity, and geopolitical uncertainty. Anders explains that effective procurement includes sourcing suppliers, managing existing suppliers, and transacting with them—but today's risk environment requires organizations to look beyond their immediate vendors. Look Beyond Tier-One Suppliers A supplier may appear reliable while depending on subcontractors or materials from vulnerable regions. Understanding those indirect dependencies can reveal risks that aren't visible from the primary supplier relationship. Organizations should identify critical suppliers and ask which suppliers those companies depend on. Build Supply Chain Alternatives Before You Need Them Supplier diversification isn't necessarily a cost-optimization strategy. Sometimes paying to maintain secondary or tertiary suppliers is the price of ensuring continuity. Organizations should evaluate primary, secondary, and tertiary options and understand what it will take to activate those alternatives before a disruption occurs. Create an Emergency Governance Process Strong governance matters, but lengthy internal approval processes can become liabilities during a crisis. Companies need a clearly defined exception or emergency process that allows teams to move quickly when supply is threatened—without abandoning appropriate oversight. Bring Compliance Into Procurement Earlier Trade compliance shouldn't first become involved when goods arrive at the port. Procurement and compliance can collaborate earlier on supplier vetting, product descriptions, HTS classification, special declarations, country-of-origin considerations, and other information that can affect landed cost and clearance. Getting that information right at the purchase-order stage can reduce downstream delays and improve consistency across commercial and shipping documentation. Key Takeaways • Identify your critical suppliers—and understand which third parties those suppliers depend on. • Build primary, secondary, and tertiary sourcing strategies before disruption forces you to react. • Don't optimize solely for price. Supplier capacity, resilience, geography, transportation, compliance, and continuity all affect the true cost of sourcing. • Create an emergency governance or exception process so procurement can respond quickly when critical supply is threatened. • Bring trade compliance into procurement decisions earlier, particularly around supplier vetting, product descriptions, HTS classification, country of origin, and special declarations. • Review critical supply-chain risks regularly because suppliers, subcontractors, tariffs, transportation routes, and geopolitical conditions can change. • Evaluate the cost of maintaining alternative suppliers against the operational and financial impact of losing a critical source. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Focal Point • Anders Lillevik - LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Anders Lillevik - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Nate Smith, Director of Programs at Epicenter Published: September 9, 2026 Length: ~21 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What happens when logistics veterans get a firsthand look at technologies designed to solve some of the industry's most persistent problems? In this Compliance Cowboy edition of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles sits down with Nate Smith, Director of Programs at Epicenter in Memphis, to preview the Logistics Innovation Showcase on October 1, 2026. Part of Memphis World Trade Week, the event brings together supply chain professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors for a look at emerging solutions that could shape the future of logistics. Nate explains how five companies were selected from nearly 50 applicants through Epicenter's Logistics Opportunity Challenge. Their solutions tackle real industry challenges spanning cold chain capacity, fraud prevention and detection, drayage and intermodal operations, and oversized and overweight freight. Andy and Nate also discuss why catching problems earlier can dramatically reduce costs, how previous showcase participants have turned presentations into real revenue-generating contracts, and why Memphis continues to be an important hub for logistics innovation. Beyond today's solutions, attendees will also get a glimpse at emerging research and technologies that could influence supply chains in the years ahead. Main Topic / Discussion The episode previews the Logistics Innovation Showcase taking place October 1 at Epicenter in downtown Memphis as part of Memphis World Trade Week. At the heart of the event are five companies selected through Epicenter's Logistics Opportunity Challenge: • Freight Deck — A Birmingham-based heavy-haul cost estimator helping freight brokers and carriers price permits, escorts, and other costs associated with oversized and overweight loads across the U.S. and Canada. • Pallet Vision — An Ann Arbor company using computer vision and sensors at pallet wrap stations to measure containment force, provide health scores, and create verified digital records before shipments leave the dock. • ARVEST — A Chicago company using AI-powered cameras and software to automate warehouse quality control and compliance monitoring, including detecting damage, incorrect picks, safety issues, and potential fraud. • OnSight — A Kansas City company focused on cargo-theft prevention through biometric and digital driver check-in technology. • Arcticar — An Alameda, California company developing intelligent, all-electric refrigeration systems that can help convert existing trailer assets into additional cold-chain capacity. The showcase goes beyond startup pitches. Attendees will also hear about emerging research from the University of Memphis FedEx Institute of Technology and quantum-based logistics technology from Zapata Quantum. Andy will serve as MC for the October 1 event. Key Takeaways • The Logistics Opportunity Challenge starts with real problems identified by logistics industry professionals and then searches for companies capable of solving them. • Nearly 50 companies applied this year, with five logistics experts reviewing each application before the five finalists were selected. • Earlier detection of freight damage, warehouse errors, fraud, and compliance issues can give companies an opportunity to intervene before those problems become significantly more costly. • The showcase isn't only about interesting technology — previous editions of the program have resulted in revenue-generating contracts between participating companies and corporate partners. • Supply chain operators, 3PLs, brokers, shippers, warehouse professionals, investors, and anyone interested in emerging logistics technology can benefit from seeing these solutions firsthand. • Epicenter has supported more than 1,000 entrepreneurs since its founding and combines customer validation, capital readiness, customer connections, and community-building to help innovative businesses grow. • Graduates of Epicenter's capital readiness accelerator have raised more than $5 million in equity investment since the program began in spring 2024. • Memphis World Trade Week gives attendees an opportunity to combine education, networking, logistics innovation, and industry connections across multiple events. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Logistics Innovation Showcase — October 1, 2026 • Memphis World Trade Week 2026 • Epicenter Logistics Opportunity Challenge Credits Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Nathaniel "Nate" Smith - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Arthur O'Meara Published: September 8, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary When goods are damaged in transit, who owns the problem—the seller or the buyer? The answer may not be as straightforward as who owns or physically possesses the goods. In this Trade Tips episode of Simply Trade, host Lalo Solorzano welcomes longtime Global Training Center instructor Arthur O'Meara for a practical conversation about Incoterms® and one of the most important distinctions in an international transaction: the difference between responsibility, possession, and ownership. Arthur shares a real-world FCA scenario involving goods shipped from the United States to Canada that were damaged by rain while in transit. Although title to the goods had not yet transferred to the buyer, the Incoterms® rule told a different story about who was responsible for the risk at the time of the damage. To make these concepts easier to remember, Arthur introduces his RePO framework: Responsibility, Possession, and Ownership. He explains why these three concepts need to be understood separately—and why the paperwork, the parties' intentions, and what actually happens operationally should all align. The key lesson: don't wait until something goes wrong to discover what your contract actually says. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on understanding how Incoterms® address the transfer of possession and risk between seller and buyer—and why that should not be confused with the transfer of ownership or title. Arthur uses the mnemonic RePO: Responsibility, Possession, and Ownership to distinguish three concepts that can transfer at different points in a transaction. Using an FCA seller's facility example, Arthur explains how risk can transfer to the buyer once the seller loads the goods onto the collecting vehicle, even though ownership may not yet have transferred. When the shipment in his example was damaged by rain on its way to Canada, understanding the agreed Incoterms® rule helped determine which party bore the risk. The broader lesson applies beyond FCA: companies should regularly compare their contracts and documentation with their actual operational practices and confirm that they accurately reflect what the buyer and seller intend. Key Takeaways • Remember RePO: Responsibility, Possession, and Ownership are separate concepts and should be addressed accordingly in the transaction. • Incoterms® do not determine ownership: They address important responsibilities between buyer and seller, including delivery and the transfer of risk, but title or ownership must be addressed separately. • Know when risk transfers: Under FCA at the seller's facility, the point at which the seller delivers the goods to the buyer's carrier can determine when risk shifts from seller to buyer. • Test your paperwork before there's a problem: Create a hypothetical failure or damaged-shipment scenario, pull out the documentation, and determine whether the written agreement matches the parties' intentions and actual operations. Resources & Mentions • O'Meara and Associates • Global Training Center • The Way Things Work: Newly Revised Edition by David Macaulay — Arthur recommends this illustrated reference as an approachable way for trade professionals to better understand mechanical and engineering concepts useful in areas such as tariff classification. • Whose Problem Is It? Scenario of Incoterms FCA (RePO) — Explore Arthur's RePO concept and an Incoterms® FCA scenario in more detail. Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Arthur O'Meara - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lori Mullins & Karen Damon Published: September 2, 2026 Length: Approximately 13 minutes Summary Trade is moving faster than ever—and for customs brokers, freight forwarders, and other trade professionals, keeping pace with tariff and regulatory changes has become a daily challenge. In this special Simply Trade collaboration with the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), Lori Mullins, NCBFAA Social Media Chair, sits down with NCBFAA President Karen Damon for the association's monthly President's Recap: “Helping Trade Find Its True North.” Karen shares her perspective from more than 30 years in the industry and discusses one of the biggest challenges facing customs brokers today: the speed at which tariff and regulatory changes are being implemented. She explains why NCBFAA is advocating for more advance notice and clearer communication so brokers, importers, staff, and software providers have adequate time to prepare for compliant implementation. The conversation also explores NCBFAA's role on Capitol Hill, increased customs enforcement, the broker's role as a “force multiplier,” continuing education requirements for licensed customs brokers, and the importance of becoming actively involved with local trade associations. For anyone navigating today's rapidly changing trade environment, this episode highlights why education, advocacy, compliance, and industry participation matter. Main Topic / Discussion The central theme of this President's Recap is how the trade community can navigate rapid regulatory change while maintaining compliance and facilitating legitimate trade. Karen explains that timing is one of the greatest challenges surrounding tariff changes. Brokers must simultaneously understand new requirements, educate clients, train employees, and work with software providers to implement changes correctly. NCBFAA is advocating for more consistent advance notice of tariff changes, including sufficient time between Federal Register notices, CBP communications, and implementation. The association is also seeking better channels for addressing operational readiness and compliance questions. The episode also examines the customs broker's increasingly important role in enforcement. Karen describes brokers as a “force multiplier” that can support CBP's goals of protecting revenue and enhancing national security when verification requirements are clear and equitable. Advocacy and Industry Representation With NCBFAA's Government Affairs Conference sold out, Karen emphasizes the importance of members engaging directly with lawmakers and educating Congress about issues affecting brokers, forwarders, NVOCCs, employers, importers, and exporters. NCBFAA's committees, counsel, and staff also continuously monitor regulatory developments and communicate important changes to members through alerts and educational resources. Continuing Education and the 2027 Triennial Licensed customs brokers should also be preparing for continuing education requirements associated with the upcoming triennial reporting cycle. Karen encourages individual licensed customs brokers to understand their education credits, reporting requirements, and recordkeeping obligations rather than waiting until the deadline approaches. Get Involved Locally Karen closes with a simple message for customs brokers, freight forwarders, and NVOCCs: your voice matters. Participation in local associations provides opportunities for education, industry collaboration, advocacy, and professional connection—and strengthens the broader trade community. Key Takeaways • The speed of tariff and regulatory changes is creating significant operational challenges for customs brokers, their clients, employees, and technology providers. • NCBFAA is advocating for greater advance notice and clearer communication before major tariff changes take effect. • Customs brokers can serve as a “force multiplier” for CBP by helping facilitate compliant trade, protect revenue, and support national security. • Licensed customs brokers should prepare now for continuing education and recordkeeping obligations connected with the upcoming triennial reporting cycle. • NCBFAA committees, counsel, staff, and member communications help the industry monitor and respond to regulatory developments. • Participation in local trade associations gives industry professionals a stronger collective voice and creates opportunities for education, advocacy, and collaboration. Resources & Mentions • National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) • NCBFAA Educational Institute (NEI) • Lori Mullins - LinkedIn • Karen Damon - LinkedIn Credits Host: Lori Mullins Karen Damon Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: September 4, 2026 Length: 21 min. Presented by: Global Training Center Summary CBP wants to know you better—and Cindy Allen is breaking down what that could mean for the future of import compliance. In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy uses Taylor Swift's “Everything Has Changed” as the backdrop for a major new CBP proposal: Heightened Import Disclosures for Supply Chain Visibility. Unlike a typical proposed rule, CBP is asking the trade community 64 questions covering foreign export documentation, manufacturer identification, the Global Business Identifier (GBI), supply chain tracing technology, CTPAT, and the economic impact of providing greater visibility. But that's not all that changed this week. Cindy also examines shifting tariff politics ahead of the midterms, a potential 10-year AGOA renewal, Section 232 developments involving chips and unmanned aerial aircraft, tariff stacking issues affecting CAPE refunds, and new copper smelt-and-cast origin requirements. The takeaway: CBP is signaling a desire to see much further into the supply chain—and importers should pay close attention to what these 64 questions may reveal about future compliance expectations. This Week in Trade • Shifting tariff positions on Capitol Hill and a potential 10-year renewal of AGOA • Potential expansion of Section 232 tariffs on chips and semiconductors • CBP guidance on unmanned aerial aircraft, tariff stacking, and CAPE refund issues • New copper smelt-and-cast origin requirements for imported goods • CBP's proposed Heightened Import Disclosures for Supply Chain Visibility Main Topic / Discussion The centerpiece of this episode is CBP's proposed Heightened Import Disclosures for Supply Chain Visibility. Cindy walks through the proposal's 64 questions and explains why their unusual format matters. Rather than simply announcing how new requirements will be implemented, CBP is actively asking the trade community how expanded supply chain visibility could work, who should provide the information, and how requirements might differ by entry type, commodity, country of origin, transportation mode, company size, or CTPAT participation. One major area involves foreign export documentation. CBP is exploring whether importers should provide documentation filed with foreign governments and how differences in valuation, classification, and other information between export and U.S. import filings should be handled. Cindy sees this as another indication of CBP's longstanding desire to push visibility beyond the U.S. border and further back toward the origin of the goods. The proposal also examines manufacturer identification and the Global Business Identifier. Cindy explains how GBI has evolved beyond simply identifying companies and could provide CBP with much deeper information about suppliers, products, manufacturing capabilities, production processes, value, classification, and potentially components throughout the supply chain. CBP is also asking about AI and other supply chain tracing technologies, whether importers should be responsible for providing those tools, what they cost, and whether expanded visibility could become part of CTPAT requirements or benefits. For importers and customs brokers, the questions provide an important clue about where customs compliance may be headed: more information, greater upstream visibility, and potentially more responsibility for understanding the supply chain all the way back to the source. Key Takeaways • CBP's 64 questions could provide an early indication of future import reporting and supply chain visibility requirements. • Importers may need greater access to foreign export documentation and the ability to reconcile that information with U.S. import declarations. • GBI and other initiatives could push compliance beyond identifying suppliers toward product, manufacturing, production, and component-level information. • AI and supply chain tracing technology may play a larger role in demonstrating visibility and compliance to CBP. • CTPAT participants could potentially face additional visibility requirements while receiving new benefits for making those investments. • Trade associations provide an important avenue for companies to participate in the comment process and help shape how future requirements are implemented. Resources & Mentions • Trade Force Multiplier • Heightened Import Disclosures for Supply Chain Visibility • Global Business Identifier (GBI) • Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) • African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) • Section 232 tariffs on chips, semiconductors, and unmanned aerial aircraft • Copper smelt-and-cast country-of-origin requirements • CAPE refunds and tariff stacking Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles Guest(s): David Smason Published: September 3, 2026 Length: Approx. 35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing global trade—but what happens when the technology is placed directly in the hands of customs and border agencies? In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with David Smason, co-founder of CargoSeer, whose technology was recently acquired by BigBear.ai, to explore how AI is being used to modernize cargo inspections, customs enforcement, and border operations. David explains how CargoSeer began with a focused challenge: helping operators analyze cargo X-ray images faster and more effectively. That concept evolved into an AI-powered decision-support platform capable of bringing together imaging, trade documentation, supply-chain information, and other data to help frontline operators identify higher-risk shipments and make better-informed decisions. The conversation explores reducing cargo release times, automating the analysis of empty containers, improving revenue collection, identifying counterfeit goods, and creating greater consistency across ports and inspection teams. They also discuss an important principle behind successful government AI adoption: technology needs to support the operator rather than force the operator to adapt to the technology. For trade professionals, this episode offers a fascinating look at the other side of the compliance equation—and how increasingly sophisticated technology could reshape customs enforcement around the world. Main Topic / Discussion AI is moving beyond private-sector trade compliance tools and into customs and border operations. David explains how CargoSeer developed AI technology around the workflows of frontline operators. Rather than creating technology first and searching for applications afterward, the company studied how operators actually inspect cargo and make decisions, then built technology designed to augment those processes. The result is an approach that can combine cargo imaging with trade, documentation, supply-chain, and other available data to help agencies prioritize higher-risk shipments while accelerating the review of lower-risk cargo. One example discussed is empty-container inspection. David explains that operators can traditionally spend several minutes adjudicating an empty container. CargoSeer's AI was designed to analyze these scenarios in seconds, allowing operators to focus more attention on shipments requiring human expertise. The conversation also examines how AI can improve consistency. Experienced customs officers often develop instincts after decades on the job. AI creates an opportunity to capture patterns from effective inspection methodologies and apply them more broadly across an agency. David also discusses CargoSeer's work in El Salvador and how highly customizable AI can help customs administrations address their specific enforcement, revenue, and operational objectives. Looking ahead, David sees AI supporting a new generation of customs systems in which information from multiple agencies and sources can be analyzed in the background while operators receive the specific information they need to make a decision. Key Takeaways • AI can help customs agencies prioritize higher-risk cargo instead of relying heavily on randomized inspections. • Combining cargo imaging with trade documentation, supply-chain data, and other information can give operators a more complete picture of each shipment. • Automating straightforward inspection scenarios—such as identifying legitimate empty containers—can free officers to spend more time on higher-value enforcement activities. • AI could help customs administrations capture the knowledge of experienced operators and apply successful inspection methodologies more consistently across ports, modes, and teams. • Better targeting doesn't necessarily mean inspecting more cargo; it can mean making the cargo selected for inspection more relevant to an agency's enforcement objectives. • Customs AI must be customizable because air, ocean, land, and express environments have different operational requirements. • Successful government technology adoption depends heavily on designing systems around frontline operators and their existing workflows. • Greater predictability in enforcement can benefit compliant importers by creating clearer expectations while increasing the likelihood that noncompliant shipments receive additional scrutiny. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • BigBear.ai • David Smason - LinkedIn • BigBear.ai - CargoSeer Acquisition Announcement Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): David Smason - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano & Cindy Allen Guest(s): Will Fediw, Virginia Maritime Association Published: September 2, 2026 Length: Approx. 29 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Trade associations can be much more than networking groups—they can become an extension of your team, a source of industry intelligence, and a powerful collective voice when policy decisions affect your business. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Cindy Allen sit down with Will Fediw of the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) to explore the real business value of getting involved in an industry association. Will shares examples of how companies of all sizes have used association membership to uncover funding and incentive opportunities, make valuable business connections, strengthen advocacy efforts, and gain access to expertise they may not have internally. The conversation also highlights the close relationship between international trade and the maritime industry. From tariffs and regulatory changes to ports, trucking, rail, warehousing, importers, and exporters, the entire supply chain is interconnected. Finally, the group previews VMA26: International Trade Symposium, taking place October 13–15, 2026, in Norfolk, Virginia, where maritime, logistics, supply chain, and trade professionals will come together for education, strategic conversations, and networking. Simply Trade listeners can use promo code VMA26Trade for $100 off registration. Main Topic / Discussion This episode explores why active participation in trade and industry associations can create measurable value for businesses. Will explains how the Virginia Maritime Association connects companies across the maritime supply chain—from ocean carriers and terminals to trucking, rail, warehousing, manufacturers, importers, exporters, and professional service providers. The conversation focuses on three major benefits of association involvement: access to information and resources, business-to-business connections, and collective advocacy. Will also explains why advocacy is especially valuable for small and midsize companies that may not have dedicated government affairs teams or in-house resources. At the same time, even major corporations can benefit from having an established association represent broader industry interests before policymakers. Lalo, Cindy, and Will also discuss the importance of educating elected officials about how trade and maritime policy affects businesses, jobs, cargo movement, and communities throughout the supply chain. The episode concludes with a preview of VMA26: International Trade Symposium, October 13–15, 2026, in Norfolk, Virginia. Simply Trade Listener Offer: Use promo code VMA26Trade for $100 off registration. Key Takeaways • Trade associations can provide expertise, connections, education, and resources that companies may not have available internally. • Association membership can create real business opportunities by connecting members with potential customers, partners, programs, grants, and industry resources. • Collective advocacy gives businesses—especially smaller companies—a stronger voice with legislators and government agencies without requiring their own full-time government affairs operation. • Maritime transportation and international trade are inseparable. Changes involving tariffs, regulation, cargo flows, ports, carriers, and supply chains ultimately affect businesses across the entire trade ecosystem. • Effective advocacy requires more than access to policymakers. Industry professionals can serve as subject matter experts who help elected officials understand the real-world consequences of proposed policies. • VMA26 brings maritime, shipping, logistics, supply chain, government, and trade professionals together for education, peer-to-peer discussion, and networking. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Virginia Maritime Association • VMA26: International Trade Symposium • VMA26 Simply Trade Listener Discount: Use code VMA26Trade for $100 off registration • VMA26 Dates: October 13–15, 2026 | Norfolk, Virginia Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Cindy Allen Guest(s): Will Fediw - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Cindy De Leon and Guillermo De Leon Published: August 31, 2026 Length: Approximately 25 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference (ATCC) is back for 2027—and if past years are any indication, waiting to register could mean missing out. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano welcomes Cindy De Leon and Guillermo De Leon to preview the 2027 ATCC, taking place February 3–5 in Houston. They explain what makes ATCC different from a typical trade conference: advanced education designed specifically for experienced importers, exporters, and customs brokerage professionals, paired with access to seasoned practitioners and true peer-to-peer networking. Cindy previews two optional masterclass-style workshops covering Foreign-Trade Zones and human-verified customs audits, including why technology and AI can help identify compliance risks but shouldn't replace experienced human judgment. The conversation also explores ATCC's selective approach to speakers and sponsors, the value of keeping industry experts engaged throughout the conference, and several new additions for 2027. Plus, hear what's planned for the Thursday-night “Unmasking Innovation” celebration—and why attendees should register and reserve their hotel rooms early. Main Topic / Discussion The 2027 Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference is designed for experienced trade professionals looking to move beyond introductory customs and compliance education. The general conference begins Wednesday, February 3, 2027 at 1:00 p.m. and concludes Friday, February 5 at 1:00 p.m. in Houston. Optional intensive workshops begin Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m., while a new Connections Reception on Tuesday evening will give first-time attendees, sponsors, and speakers another opportunity to meet before the main conference begins. Two optional workshops take center stage this year. “Zone Mastery” will explore today's Foreign-Trade Zone environment, including tariff policy, compliance risks, and potential savings. A second audit-focused masterclass will examine how data analytics and ACE data can identify risk while emphasizing the importance of human-verified auditing. Cindy stresses that automated flags and algorithms can identify potential problems, but they don't automatically equal compliance findings. Experienced professionals still need to interpret the data, conduct meaningful audits, and understand the circumstances behind the numbers. ATCC also emphasizes “power networking.” Speakers and sponsors are expected to actively engage with attendees rather than simply appear for a presentation or exhibit. The 2027 conference will culminate in an elegant masquerade-inspired “Unmasking Innovation” celebration, followed by an after-party featuring Chicago's DJ Victor R. Registration is limited to 600 attendees, and the previous conference filled before early-bird registration ended. Key Takeaways • ATCC 2027 runs February 3–5, 2027 in Houston, with optional workshops beginning Wednesday morning and a new Connections Reception on Tuesday evening. • The conference is intentionally advanced, targeting experienced importers, exporters, and customs brokerage professionals rather than providing introductory-level trade education. • The 2027 workshops will dive deeply into Foreign-Trade Zones and human-verified customs audits, including the use—and limitations—of AI and automated data analysis in compliance. • Registration is capped at 600 attendees, and previous ATCC events have reached capacity early, making early registration and hotel reservations especially important. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance Conference (ATCC) • Cindy De Leon - LinkedIn • Guillermo De Leon - LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Cindy De Leon - LinkedIn Guillermo De Leon - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: August 28, 2026 Length: Not provided Presented by: Global Training Center Summary There's “Bad Blood” in North American trade—and Cindy Allen is breaking down why. In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy uses Taylor Swift's “Bad Blood” as the backdrop for a packed international trade update. At the center is the escalating U.S.-Canada trade dispute, including U.S. Section 338 duties and Canada's planned dollar-for-dollar retaliation. With neither side appearing ready to back down, importers should prepare for continued uncertainty and potential legal challenges. But tariffs are only part of the story. Cindy examines concerns surrounding IEEPA tariff refunds and debt offsets, the potentially sweeping implications of the administration's approach to “transshipment,” and evolving foreign importer-of-record requirements that could place new responsibilities on customs brokers. She also explains growing questions around importer vetting, CBP Form 5106, CTPAT certification, and the elimination of the “flying trucks” practice affecting express carriers. The takeaway: longstanding assumptions about country of origin, importer responsibilities, brokerage practices, and North American trade are being challenged at the same time. This Week in Trade • IEEPA tariff refunds, CAPE delays, and concerns about government debt offsets • “The Great Transshipment Scam” and its potential impact on country-of-origin determinations • New foreign importer-of-record, CTPAT, customs broker, and importer-vetting requirements • Escalating U.S.-Canada trade tensions and potential retaliation Main Topic / Discussion The centerpiece of this episode is the growing trade conflict between the United States and Canada. Cindy discusses the imposition of Section 338 duties on certain Canadian goods at 50% and Canada's planned dollar-for-dollar retaliation on U.S. products beginning September 8. She explains why the dispute matters beyond the immediate tariffs: it comes amid broader negotiations over the future of USMCA and alongside other policy changes that could disproportionately affect Canadian companies importing into the United States. The episode also explores a broader shift in customs enforcement. Cindy highlights the administration's approach to transshipment and how treating foreign components as retaining their own essential character could challenge longstanding approaches to substantial transformation and country-of-origin determinations. For importers and customs brokers, these developments could mean significantly more data, due diligence, compliance obligations, and potential liability. Key Takeaways • Importers receiving IEEPA duty refunds should monitor whether disputed federal or state debts are being offset against those refunds. • The government's evolving interpretation of transshipment could dramatically increase the component-level information importers need to obtain and report. • Foreign importer-of-record rules could create new CTPAT requirements and increase responsibilities and potential liability for customs brokers. • The U.S.-Canada tariff dispute may continue escalating, with additional retaliation and legal challenges possible. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • CBP Form 5106 and importer-of-record requirements • Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) • USMCA • IEEPA tariff litigation and refund developments • Section 338 duties and U.S.-Canada trade developments Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano & Andy Shiles Guest(s): Kathleen August Published: August 27, 2026 Length: ~30 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary How ready would your company be if U.S. Customs and Border Protection came knocking tomorrow? In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with former CBP auditor Kathleen August to discuss why being “audit ready” is no longer enough. With more than 33 years of experience on the CBP side of the desk, Kathleen offers an insider's perspective on today's enforcement environment and explains why importers need to become truly “Customs Ready.” The conversation covers the growing importance of CF28 responses, ACE data, internal controls, record retention, post-entry reviews, supply-chain visibility, and cross-functional communication. Kathleen also explains why having a trade compliance manual sitting on a shelf doesn't equal an effective compliance program. Companies need procedures tailored to their operations—and executable tools that employees actually use. From unexpected changes in entered value to country-of-origin questions, forced labor concerns, USMCA documentation, and shifting sourcing strategies, CBP has more data and analytical capability than ever before. The message for importers is clear: know your data, know your supply chain, document your processes, and be prepared to respond before Customs asks the question. Main Topic / Discussion Being audit ready is important—but Kathleen argues that today's importers need to go further and become Customs Ready. With CBP operating in an enforcement-focused environment, companies may encounter CF28s, questions about their supply chains, entry reviews, or other inquiries even if they are never selected for a full audit. Kathleen explains that a strong compliance foundation starts with documented internal controls tailored specifically to the company. But documentation alone isn't enough. Companies need “executable documents”—checklists, logs, databases, classification records, broker procedures, and other tools that turn a compliance manual into everyday action. The discussion also highlights the importance of reviewing ACE data from CBP's perspective. Changes in entered value, country of origin, classification, sourcing, or other entry information can create patterns that draw attention. As Kathleen puts it, Customs is like a highly capable chess opponent—and they may already be “two steps ahead.” Importers also need visibility beyond the trade compliance department. Sales, purchasing, engineering, finance, sourcing, and leadership can all make decisions that affect customs compliance. Tooling assists, supplier changes, certificates of origin, USMCA qualification, and sourcing shifts are just a few examples. Ultimately, becoming Customs Ready means building a system that allows the organization to identify problems, maintain records, respond to questions, and pivot quickly as tariffs and enforcement priorities change. Key Takeaways • Be Customs Ready, not just audit ready. A full CBP audit is only one potential compliance event. Importers also need to be prepared for CF28s, investigations, and questions about individual entries or their broader supply chain. • Document internal controls—and actually use them. Compliance procedures should be customized to the company rather than copied from a generic manual. Pair written procedures with executable tools such as checklists, CF28 logs, databases, classification records, and broker instructions. • Know what your ACE data says about you. CBP can identify changes and patterns across entries. Importers should review their own data for unusual shifts in value, classification, country of origin, sourcing, and other areas before those patterns generate questions. • Understand your entire supply chain. Know who you are buying from, where products and components originate, where transformation or assembly occurs, and when suppliers or production locations change. • Conduct post-entry reviews. Don't assume the broker entered everything correctly. Monitoring entries can help identify errors early and, in some cases, allow companies to correct problems in real time. • Make compliance cross-functional. Sales, purchasing, engineering, finance, sourcing, and trade compliance all affect customs outcomes. Compliance cannot operate effectively in a silo. • Maintain accessible records. A record retention policy is only useful if the organization can quickly retrieve the documentation needed to respond to CBP. • Be ready to pivot. Tariffs and trade requirements can change quickly. Companies need processes, expertise, and resources that allow them to adapt without sacrificing compliance. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Kathleen August - LinkedIn • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) • Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) • CBP Form 28 (CF28) • USMCA • Section 232 tariffs • Foreign Trade Zones and bonded warehouses • Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) / antidumping enforcement Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Kathleen August - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Kim Campbell, Mollie Sitkowski Published: August 26, 2026 Length: 26 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Canada-U.S. trade tensions are escalating again—and trade professionals on both sides of the border need to move quickly. In this special episode of Simply Trade, host Lalo Solorzano is joined by Canadian trade expert Kim Campbell and Section 338 expert Mollie Sitkowski to break down Canada's newly announced retaliatory tariffs and what businesses should be doing before they take effect. Kim explains Canada's dollar-for-dollar retaliation strategy, including tariff increases affecting more than a thousand tariff lines and some products potentially facing significant additional costs. She also highlights an important distinction for traders: while CUSMA/USMCA qualification may reduce the underlying duty rate, it does not exempt goods from these retaliatory tariffs. Mollie provides the U.S. perspective, including what businesses should understand about Section 338, origin determinations, classification reviews, and the risks of changing tariff classifications simply to escape today's tariff exposure. Beyond customs compliance, the conversation examines the growing economic consequences of the dispute—from Canadian buying behavior and tourism to cross-border businesses and supply chains. The message for trade professionals is clear: verify your data, understand your exposure, communicate with your customs partners, and watch official government guidance closely. Main Topic / Discussion Canada has announced retaliatory tariffs following the implementation of U.S. Section 338 measures. Kim Campbell and Mollie Sitkowski explain how the Canadian and U.S. measures interact, where CUSMA/USMCA does—and does not—provide relief, and what importers should review immediately. Canada's Retaliatory Tariffs Canada's response is designed around dollar-for-dollar retaliation. According to Kim, the new measures cover more than a thousand tariff lines and build upon earlier surtax measures, with some existing rates increasing substantially. One particularly important point: CUSMA qualification does not eliminate Canada's retaliatory tariff. A qualifying product may receive a zero base duty rate while still being subject to the applicable retaliation rate. Classification and Origin Matter Both Kim and Mollie stress the importance of reviewing tariff classifications rather than assuming historical classifications are correct. Mollie also cautions businesses against changing classifications simply because another tariff provision currently appears more favorable. Tariff measures can change quickly, and repeated classification changes without a defensible technical basis can create additional customs risk. For U.S. Section 338 purposes, importers should also carefully review the applicable origin rules, including USMCA marking rules for Canadian goods. Remission Opportunities in Canada Canadian importers should determine whether an existing remission order applies to their goods. Businesses experiencing hardship or situations where goods cannot reasonably be sourced in Canada may also be able to apply for remission. Importers should communicate proactively with their customs brokers. A broker cannot necessarily know that an importer qualifies for a remission unless the importer provides the necessary information and instructions. The Bigger Cross-Border Impact The consequences extend beyond duty bills. Kim describes a strong Buy Canadian movement, reduced Canadian travel to the United States, changes in consumer purchasing, and provincial restrictions affecting U.S. alcohol sales. The longer these disruptions continue, the greater the possibility that businesses and consumers develop new purchasing habits and supplier relationships that may not immediately reverse when tariffs disappear. Key Takeaways • Canada's retaliatory tariffs are designed as a dollar-for-dollar response to U.S. trade measures, with implementation scheduled for September 8 as discussed in the episode. • CUSMA/USMCA qualification may eliminate the normal duty rate, but it does not exempt qualifying goods from Canada's retaliatory tariff. • Importers should verify tariff classifications, product descriptions, origin determinations, and eligibility for available Canadian remission orders. • Do not reclassify merchandise simply to escape today's tariff list. Classification must remain technically supportable, and future tariff actions could change the economics again. • Canadian importers that qualify for remission need to communicate that information to their customs brokers so the appropriate treatment can be applied. • Businesses should monitor official government and customs guidance closely because implementation details and tariff measures can change quickly. • The effects of the dispute extend beyond customs duties into tourism, consumer purchasing, cross-border communities, sourcing decisions, and long-term commercial relationships. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Finance Canada tariff and remission guidance — listeners should consult the current official Government of Canada guidance for the latest tariff lists, remission orders, and implementation details discussed in this episode. • U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidance — monitor current official notices and implementation instructions relating to Section 338 and other applicable trade measures. • Kim Campbell - LinkedIn • Mollie Sitkowski - LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Kim Campbell - LinkedIn Mollie Sitkowski - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Jennifer Amos, President, Memphis World Trade Club Published: August 24, 2026 Length: ~22 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The Compliance Cowboy is riding into Memphis—and there's a lot happening in one of America's most important logistics hubs. Simply Trade host Andy Shiles sits down with Jennifer Amos, President of the Memphis World Trade Club and Director of Sales at Dunavant Logistics, to talk about the growth, infrastructure, innovation, and people powering the Memphis logistics community. At the center of the conversation is Memphis World Trade Week, including the Memphis Logistics Summit on September 30 and Tech Innovation Day and the 75th anniversary of Port Night on October 1. Jennifer explains how the World Trade Club, Greater Memphis Chamber, and Epicenter Memphis are bringing established industry leaders, technology startups, carriers, beneficial cargo owners, and logistics professionals together. Andy and Jennifer also explore why Memphis continues to matter as a distribution hub—from rail and interstate connectivity to air cargo and the Mississippi River—and why logistics careers extend far beyond warehouses and trucks. And yes, Andy plans to show up to Port Night the way longtime Memphis trade folks might remember him: cowboy hat, boots, and all. Main Topic / Discussion Memphis has long been a major transportation and distribution center, but its logistics community continues to evolve through new infrastructure, technology, talent development, and collaboration. Jennifer Amos previews the Memphis World Trade Club's upcoming events and explains how Memphis World Trade Week is designed to connect the different pieces of that ecosystem. The conversation covers the September 30 Memphis Logistics Summit at the Peabody, followed on October 1 by Tech Innovation Day at Epicenter Memphis and the Memphis World Trade Club's 75th Port Night in the Peabody's Grand Ballroom. Andy and Jennifer also discuss the value of face-to-face industry relationships. From monthly World Trade Club meetings to an event expected to attract logistics executives and professionals from around the world, Memphis provides opportunities to build a network—not just exchange business cards. Key Takeaways • Memphis remains a major logistics hub. Its combination of air cargo, Class I railroads, interstate connections, the Mississippi River, warehousing, and distribution infrastructure makes the region strategically important for freight movement. • Memphis World Trade Week is growing. The September 30 Logistics Summit leads into an October 1 technology-focused event and the 75th anniversary of Port Night. • Technology is changing logistics careers. The industry needs talent in IT, finance, analytics, operations, automation, technology, and other supporting disciplines—not just traditional transportation roles. • Relationships still matter. Jennifer and Andy emphasize the value of industry organizations and in-person events for meeting decision-makers, sharing ideas, developing talent, and building long-term professional relationships. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Memphis World Trade Club • Memphis Logistics Summit — September 30 • Tech Innovation Day — October 1 • Memphis World Trade Club 75th Port Night — October 1 • Greater Memphis Chamber • Epicenter Memphis Credits Host: Andy Shiles Guest(s): Jennifer Amos - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Hugo Pakula Published: TBD Length: ~33 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Customs compliance isn't just getting more complicated—enforcement is getting smarter. In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Hugo Pakula, founder of Tru Identity, to examine how technology, data, and changing enforcement priorities are reshaping the relationship between U.S. Customs and Border Protection, importers, and customs brokers. The conversation explores a fundamental shift: being compliant may no longer be enough. Importers and brokers increasingly need to be able to demonstrate compliance through accurate data, documented controls, and processes capable of identifying risk before cargo reaches the border. Hugo discusses why strong master data is becoming critical, how CBP's increasingly sophisticated approach to targeting changes the compliance equation, and why companies should focus less on simply processing more entries and more on building systems that balance speed, accuracy, and control. The discussion also examines Executive Order 14411, Strengthening Customs Enforcement, and what heightened enforcement, supply-chain visibility, penalty policies, and risk-based scrutiny could mean for trade professionals. The takeaway for leadership: compliance shouldn't be viewed only as a cost center. Done well, it can become a strategic advantage. Main Topic / Discussion From Reactive Compliance to Proactive Risk Management For years, importers could discover a problem only after a shipment reached the port and CBP intervened. Hugo argues that the better model is identifying discrepancies earlier—before they become holds, penalties, audits, or costly delays. That requires companies to think beyond simply processing transactions. Importers and brokers need reliable master data and processes capable of examining information across shipments, products, suppliers, and supply chains. Being Compliant vs. Proving Compliance One of Hugo's central points is that compliance now has two dimensions: doing the work correctly and being able to demonstrate that the work was done correctly. As enforcement technology becomes more sophisticated, companies need the records, controls, and data to support their decisions. That becomes particularly important when CBP may have information about suppliers or deeper tiers of a supply chain that an importer does not immediately see. Executive Order 14411 and Stronger Enforcement The episode discusses Executive Order 14411, Strengthening Customs Enforcement, issued June 3, 2026. The order calls for a series of customs reforms, including heightened importer requirements, additional supply-chain disclosures, stronger enforcement measures, revised mitigation standards, and risk-based approaches to importers. For importers and brokers, the message is clear: waiting until CBP identifies a problem is an increasingly risky strategy. Back to the Basics: Better Data Despite all the discussion about AI and automation, Hugo argues that the industry's future also looks surprisingly familiar. Companies still need to answer foundational questions: • What is the product? • What is it made of? • Who is involved in making it? • What is its intended use? Clean, structured master data around those questions can make it easier to respond when tariffs, trade remedies, enforcement priorities, or other requirements change. Compliance as a Growth Lever The episode closes with an important message for executives: compliance doesn't have to be treated purely as overhead. Better compliance data can support impact analysis, sourcing decisions, forecasting, risk management, and more strategic relationships between importers and customs brokers. Freeing compliance professionals from constant reactive work can give them more time to deliver that strategic value. Key Takeaways • Being compliant isn't the finish line. Importers and brokers increasingly need to be able to demonstrate their compliance with reliable data and documented controls. • Master data matters. Understanding product composition, manufacturers, suppliers, and other underlying attributes creates a stronger foundation for responding to changing trade requirements. • Think proactively, not reactively. Finding a discrepancy before goods reach the border is far better than discovering it after CBP holds the cargo. • Treat compliance as a strategic capability. Strong compliance can support better sourcing, forecasting, risk management, and business decisions—not just prevent penalties. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Tru Identity • Tru Identity + U.S. Customs and Border Protection • Executive Order 14411 — Strengthening Customs Enforcement • Hugo Pakula — LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Hugo Pakula - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: August 14, 2026 Length: Approx. 14 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What if the country of origin rules trade professionals have relied on for decades were fundamentally redefined? In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen uses Taylor Swift's “Tolerate It” as the backdrop for a consequential week in international trade. She begins with newly announced Section 232 duties affecting certain advanced drones, including a 100% duty rate for much of the world and different treatment for several trading partners. But the heart of the episode is a potentially much bigger shift: the administration's evolving approach to “transshipment” and component-level country of origin. Cindy examines an August 13 opinion column from senior trade adviser Peter Navarro and a companion White House paper, explaining why their arguments could challenge long-established substantial-transformation principles. If this approach becomes policy, importers could face dramatically more complex reporting requirements—potentially identifying the origin, value, tariff treatment, and trade-remedy exposure of individual components inside finished products. For trade professionals and manufacturers, Cindy's message is clear: understanding your supply chain down to the component and raw-material level may become more important than ever. This Week in Trade • New Section 232 duties target certain advanced drones, with a 100% rate for much of the world and different treatment for specified trading partners. • Additional component-level duties related to the drone action could take effect in February 2027. • Peter Navarro's “It Was a Great Scam While It Lasted” challenges traditional thinking around transshipment and imported components. • A proposed shift toward component-level origin and tariff treatment could significantly change importer compliance, supply-chain visibility, and entry processes. Main Topic / Discussion The central issue is a potentially fundamental change in how the United States approaches country of origin, substantial transformation, and transshipment. Traditionally, country-of-origin determinations can recognize that foreign components incorporated into a product in another country have undergone a substantial transformation. Cindy uses the example of a Chinese-made motor incorporated into a recliner manufactured in Canada: under established origin principles, the finished chair may be considered Canadian rather than treated simply as a collection of its original components. The administration's emerging position, as Cindy describes it, could take a different approach—potentially requiring importers to account for certain underlying components, their countries of origin, values, and applicable tariff measures. The practical question is where such tracing would stop. For complex products such as automobiles, would importers need to separately account for engines and transmissions? Semiconductors and electronics? Spark plugs? Raw materials? For trade professionals, this could mean a substantial expansion of the data needed to support an import declaration and a much deeper examination of multi-tier supply chains. Cindy connects the issue to Taylor Swift's “Tolerate It”: the trade community is watching major policy changes unfold while trying to understand how established trade practices may be transformed. Key Takeaways • Country-of-origin rules and the substantial-transformation standard could become a major focus of future trade policy and enforcement. • A broader definition of transshipment could create significant compliance implications for manufacturers and importers using globally sourced components. • Importers should increasingly understand their products beyond the finished-good level, including component origin, value, and potentially raw-material sourcing. • Technology and supply-chain data providers may become even more critical if future requirements demand deeper component-level reporting and tariff analysis. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Peter Navarro — “It Was a Great Scam While It Lasted” (New York Times opinion column, August 13, 2026) • White House companion paper addressing trade, transshipment, and component-level imports • Section 232 trade measures concerning certain advanced drones Credits Host: Cindy Allen Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Ken Roberts and Tatiana Panzardi Published: August 13, 2026 Length: ~35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The latest U.S. trade numbers are in—and they reveal an economy being reshaped by artificial intelligence, tariffs, changing supply chains, and new patterns in global commerce. In this quarterly trade update, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome back trade-data expert Ken Roberts, joined by Tatiana Panzardi of WorldCity, to unpack U.S. Census Bureau trade data through the first six months of 2026. The numbers tell a fascinating story. U.S. trade is up, Mexico is firmly positioned as the nation's leading trading partner, and Port Laredo has returned to the top among U.S. trade gateways by value. But perhaps the biggest shift is happening in technology: computer imports have surged as companies pour billions into AI infrastructure and data centers, changing rankings that were historically dominated by oil and automobiles. At the same time, passenger-vehicle imports and exports are feeling the effects of tariffs and changing automotive policy. Beyond the statistics, this episode asks the question that matters to trade professionals and business leaders: What do these numbers mean for your sourcing, markets, contracts, and growth strategy? Main Topic / Discussion U.S. trade is undergoing a structural shift. Ken and Tatiana walk through the latest trade data and explain how AI investment, tariffs, energy, automotive trade, and supply-chain realignment are changing which commodities, countries, and ports dominate U.S. commerce. One of the clearest signals is the extraordinary growth in computer imports. Through the first six months of 2026, the episode reports computer imports at approximately $194.4 billion, compared with roughly $101.4 billion during the same period in 2025. Much of that growth is tied to servers and infrastructure supporting AI data centers. Meanwhile, Mexico remains central to U.S. trade, while Taiwan, Vietnam, South Korea, and other Asian economies are becoming increasingly important within changing global supply chains. The automotive story looks different. Passenger-vehicle imports have declined amid tariffs, while exports to several major markets have also weakened. The discussion explores what that means for specialized automotive ports and for companies navigating higher costs and shifting demand. Ultimately, the hosts bring the data back to business strategy: understanding trade trends can help companies identify new export markets, rethink sourcing, anticipate supply-chain changes, and spot opportunities before competitors do. Key Takeaways • AI is rewriting the U.S. import rankings. Massive investment in servers and data-center infrastructure has pushed computers ahead of categories such as passenger vehicles and oil, illustrating how quickly AI investment is affecting physical trade flows. • Mexico's importance continues to grow. Mexico ranks as the leading U.S. trade partner in the data discussed, including its critical role in both imports and exports, while Port Laredo has again become the nation's leading trade gateway by value. • Supply chains continue shifting away from China. Taiwan, Vietnam, South Korea, and other Asian markets are taking increasingly prominent positions as tariffs, technology investment, and sourcing strategies reshape longstanding trade patterns. • Trade data should be a business-development tool. Importers, exporters, executives, and small-business owners can use commodity, country, and port data to identify growing markets, sourcing opportunities, emerging demand, and potential risks. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • USTradeNumbers • Ken Roberts on Forbes Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Ken Roberts - LinkedIn Tatiana Panzardi - LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Victoria Schneider Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell, Lynda Thomas Published: TBD Length: ~21 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What do corn dogs, introverts, an Applebee's, and international trade compliance have in common? More than you might expect. In this candid, behind-the-scenes conversation, host Victoria Schneider sits down with Elisabeth Sherrell and ICPA co-founder Lynda Thomas for a look at the people, stories, and relationships behind the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA). Lynda shares the unlikely career path that took her from nearly managing customer service for a corn dog company to a career in logistics and trade compliance. The conversation then explores a familiar truth across the industry: very few people grow up planning to work in trade. Yet today, tariffs, supply chains, forced labor, sourcing, and global commerce have become part of everyday conversation—and trade compliance professionals are more important than ever. The group also reflects on ICPA's beginnings, its pioneering Q&A network, the power of learning from different perspectives, and the personal legacy behind an organization built to feel as much like a family as a professional association. It's a funny, personal, and heartfelt look at how a niche profession created a remarkable community. Main Topic / Discussion This episode explores the human side of trade compliance and the origins and evolution of ICPA. Victoria, Elisabeth, and Lynda discuss how professionals find their way into trade, why collaboration has always been central to the industry, and how ICPA grew from a simple idea—connecting people who needed better access to information—into a professional community. The conversation also looks ahead as trade becomes increasingly visible to consumers and businesses. With tariffs, sourcing, forced labor, and supply-chain issues now part of mainstream conversations, the need for knowledgeable trade professionals—and strong professional networks—continues to grow. Building a Community, Not Just an Association Lynda recalls how ICPA's Q&A concept began as a way to connect professionals who were independently searching for answers. Rather than treating knowledge as a competitive advantage, ICPA encouraged members to share perspectives, experiences, and solutions. Elisabeth also reflects on carrying forward the legacy created by ICPA's founders and preserving what makes the organization distinctive: serious education delivered within a welcoming, approachable community. A Place for Introverts—and Every Kind of Trade Professional The conversation explores why networking can be challenging for the many introverts working in trade compliance. Lynda shares how relationships and professional communities can help people stretch beyond their comfort zones, while Victoria highlights the value of bringing new and younger professionals into the industry. Key Takeaways • Few people intentionally set out to become trade compliance professionals, but unexpected career paths can lead to rewarding, long-term opportunities in the field. • Trade compliance has become increasingly visible as tariffs, supply chains, sourcing, and forced labor move into mainstream consumer and business conversations. • The best answer to a compliance challenge may not be the only answer. Sharing different perspectives can help professionals develop stronger solutions. • ICPA's strength comes from combining professional education with a trusted network where people can learn, connect, and support one another. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) • Global Trade Pathways Conference Credits Host: Victoria Schneider Guest(s): Elisabeth Sherrell Lynda Thomas Producer: Lalo Solorzano

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Host: Lalo Solorzano and Ashley Arnold Published: July 21, 2026 Length: Approximately 12 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Accurate product classification is the foundation of a strong import compliance program—and one incorrect classification can create problems far beyond the duty rate. In week three of this tips series, Lalo Solorzano and guest host Ashley Arnold explore the practical steps importers can take to build a more accurate, consistent, and defensible classification process. Drawing on her experience classifying products ranging from apparel to machine components, Ashley explains why importers should never rely solely on a supplier's suggested tariff number. Suppliers may understand their products, but the importer remains responsible for determining the correct U.S. classification based on complete product specifications, materials, construction, and intended use. The conversation also covers the value of CBP rulings, written classification rationales, product catalog management, version tracking, and regular audits. Lalo and Ashley discuss why similar-looking products may require different classifications, how small design or material changes can affect an HTS number, and where technology can support—but not replace—professional judgment. The central takeaway is simple: every classification decision should tell a clear story that can still be understood and defended months or years later. Main Topic / Discussion Lalo and Ashley discuss how importers can create a reliable classification program by collecting complete product information, researching relevant rulings, documenting the reasoning behind each decision, and reviewing classifications whenever a product changes. They also explain why classification affects more than ordinary customs duties. An incorrect HTS number can influence trade-remedy tariffs, free trade agreement analysis, entry audits, and an importer's overall compliance exposure. Technology can help organize large product catalogs and maintain classification histories, but importers must still apply informed judgment and maintain supporting documentation. Key Takeaways • Importers are responsible for the accuracy of their U.S. classifications and should not automatically accept tariff numbers supplied by overseas manufacturers. • Collect complete product details—including specifications, bills of materials, construction, composition, and intended use—before assigning an HTS number. • Use relevant CBP rulings and other classification research to support decisions, while recognizing that similar products may not be identical enough to receive the same classification. • Document the rationale, supporting sources, review history, and product changes so every classification can be clearly explained during a future audit. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • CBP Customs Rulings Online Search System — CROSS • Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Ashley Arnold Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Margo Waldie and Javier Vera Published: July 16, 2026 Length: 35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Warehousing is far more than a place to store products. It is a critical link in the supply chain that can either accelerate customer delivery or create costly bottlenecks. In this lively episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Margo and Javier Vera for a wide-ranging conversation about warehouse operations, technology, employee empowerment, contingency planning, and the value of strong industry relationships. The group explores what businesses should prioritize as trade policies, tariffs, customer expectations, and supply chain uncertainty continue to evolve. From predictive analytics and equipment readiness to security, sanitation, and faster order cycle times, the discussion highlights the operational decisions that can directly affect customer satisfaction. The guests also explain the mission behind the Cool Kids networking community and why making industry events more welcoming matters—especially for young professionals and people attending their first conference. They share upcoming opportunities to connect at major intermodal, maritime, breakbulk, and supply chain events. Along the way, the conversation delivers practical lessons, memorable stories, and plenty of humor about building relationships, mentoring the next generation, and finding your place within the trade and logistics community. Main Topic / Discussion This episode examines how warehouse operators can manage uncertainty while meeting growing customer expectations for faster delivery, better visibility, lower costs, and greater flexibility. The conversation also explores how professional associations, conferences, mentoring, and inclusive networking communities can help supply chain professionals strengthen their knowledge and build valuable industry relationships. Building Stronger Warehouse Operations Successful warehouse operations require more than additional space. Companies must invest in technology, employees, equipment, partnerships, security, and contingency planning. The guests discuss the importance of predictive analytics, reliable material-handling equipment, backup operating procedures, efficient pick-and-pack processes, and empowering frontline employees to solve operational challenges. Creating More Inclusive Industry Networks Javier and Margo explain that the Cool Kids community was created to make networking more accessible—not more exclusive. Its mission is to welcome newcomers, connect professionals with shared values, and help emerging supply chain talent build confidence and meaningful relationships. Making Conferences More Valuable The episode highlights networking opportunities connected with IANA, Breakbulk, the Virginia Maritime Association, and TPM. The guests encourage attendees to step outside their comfort zones, introduce themselves, and use conferences to build relationships across the trade, logistics, maritime, and warehousing sectors. Key Takeaways • Invest in technology, people, equipment, and partnerships rather than relying on a single operational solution. • Faster warehouse cycle times can improve customer satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of returns. • Predictive analytics should empower employees and improve decision-making—not simply replace people. • Contingency planning helps warehouses continue operating when equipment, internet access, or other critical systems fail. • Frontline employees often understand operational problems best and should be empowered to recommend improvements. • Safety, security, and sanitation are essential parts of a high-performing warehouse operation. • Conferences and professional associations can help newcomers find mentors, build confidence, and expand their networks. • Strong relationships across trade, logistics, maritime, and supply chain communities create opportunities for collaboration. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Cool Kids supply chain networking community • Intermodal Association of North America • Breakbulk • Virginia Maritime Association • TPM27 • Good to Great by Jim Collins • Trade Geeks Community Credits Host: Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Margo Waldie – LinkedIn Javier Vera – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Ashley Arnold Published: July 14, 2026 Length: 14:26 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this second July Tips episode, host Lalo Solorzano welcomes back Ashley Arnold for a timely conversation about CTPAT and why companies should not let their security programs sit untouched on a shelf. Ashley explains that CTPAT is becoming increasingly relevant again, especially in today's enforcement-focused trade environment. While many companies may already have a program in place, the real question is whether the procedures written in the manual are actually being followed on the warehouse floor, at the front desk, by security teams, and across the full supply chain. The conversation highlights the importance of reviewing and strengthening CTPAT programs, documenting actions, training personnel, and making sure employees understand the “why” behind security requirements. Lalo and Ashley also discuss how CTPAT connects to broader business functions such as logistics, procurement, finance, HR, IT, and cybersecurity. This episode is a practical reminder that CTPAT is not a one-time validation exercise. It is an ongoing partnership and a culture of security that requires attention, participation, and continuous improvement. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on CTPAT and the importance of keeping security programs active, current, and understood throughout the organization. Ashley Arnold explains that companies should review whether their CTPAT manuals reflect what is actually happening in day-to-day operations. Lalo and Ashley discuss how training, audit trails, warehouse-level awareness, cybersecurity reviews, and cross-functional participation all support a stronger security profile. They also emphasize that CTPAT can provide real operational benefits, including stronger relationships with Customs, possible reduced exam risk, smoother cargo movement, and greater internal awareness of supply chain security responsibilities. Key Takeaways • CTPAT programs should be reviewed, updated, and actively used, not simply stored away for annual review. • Companies should make sure their written CTPAT procedures match what employees are actually doing. • Training matters because employees are more likely to follow security procedures when they understand the reason behind them. • CTPAT should involve multiple departments, including warehouse operations, HR, IT, logistics, procurement, finance, and trade compliance. • Cybersecurity is an important part of the broader supply chain security conversation. • The goal of CTPAT is not just passing validation once; it is building and maintaining a culture of security. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center - CTPAT Live Training • Global Training Center - CTPAT On-Demand Training   Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Ashley Arnold – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Brianna Solorzano and Aaron Escobar Published: July 13, 2026 Length: ~28 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Technology is changing international trade, but the best tools do more than automate tasks—they solve real problems for the people doing the work. In this tech-focused episode of the Simply Trade Podcast, host Lalo Solorzano introduces GTC Labs, Global Training Center's incubator for developing practical technology solutions for the international trade community. Drawing on more than 35 years of training experience and direct feedback from trade professionals, the team is exploring where existing software falls short and how focused tools can help. Software engineers Brianna Solorzano and Aaron Escobar join the conversation to discuss two early GTC Labs initiatives. The first is RAIZ, a cloud-based USMCA platform designed to support supplier solicitations, product qualification, certificate fulfillment, and audit documentation. The second explores AI agents that can monitor trade developments, process information from official sources, and deliver more relevant insights to trade professionals. The conversation also addresses an important concern: technology should support people, not simply replace them. From deterministic qualification logic to thoughtfully applied AI, the episode offers a practical look at building technology around real trade workflows. Main Topic / Discussion This episode introduces GTC Labs and its mission to create practical, accessible technology for international trade professionals. The discussion focuses on RAIZ, a USMCA management platform being developed to simplify supplier documentation, product qualification, certificate generation, and audit readiness. The team also explores how AI agents could help trade professionals monitor official announcements, identify relevant developments, summarize lengthy documents, and improve situational awareness. A central theme throughout the episode is responsible technology design. The team explains that AI is not appropriate for every task. For example, RAIZ uses programmed human logic—not AI—to determine USMCA qualification results, while future AI features may help users better understand their data and qualification outcomes. Building RAIZ Around Real USMCA Workflows RAIZ was designed around four recurring challenges identified through Global Training Center's work with trade professionals: • Soliciting supporting documentation from suppliers • Applying product-specific rules and qualification requirements • Fulfilling certificate of origin requests from customers • Maintaining a complete and defensible audit trail Using AI as a Trade Professional's Sidekick The GTC Labs team is also developing agent-based workflows that could: • Monitor official trade sources and industry developments • Process lengthy announcements, articles, and regulatory documents • Filter information according to a company's industry and priorities • Produce targeted briefings, insights, and meeting talking points Key Takeaways • Technology should be designed around real trade workflows rather than trying to solve every problem with one platform. • RAIZ brings supplier solicitation, USMCA qualification, certificate fulfillment, and audit support into one connected system. • Automation can give trade professionals more time for analysis, education, risk management, and higher-value work. • AI should be applied selectively; RAIZ uses programmed human logic for qualification decisions instead of relying on AI. • Trade-focused AI agents could help professionals monitor official sources and understand how new developments affect their businesses. • Training and technology are most effective when they work together inside the user's day-to-day process. Resources & Mentions • RAIZ: Simplify USMCA Qualification Without the Guesswork • Global Training Center USMCA Training • Office of the United States Trade Representative • Bureau of Industry and Security • Obsidian Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Brianna Solorzano Aaron Escobar Producer: Mara Marquez

Host: Lalo Solorzano Published: July 10, 2026 Length: ~12 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary This week, Lalo Solorzano steps in behind the microphone while Cindy Allen enjoys a well-earned vacation—and instead of Taylor Swift, he's drawing inspiration from Metallica's "Sad But True." The title fits. Across CBP, the Department of Commerce, and the FTC, one message is becoming increasingly clear: trade compliance is becoming more data-driven, more electronic, and more demanding. From modernization initiatives and export controls to de minimis implementation and "Made in USA" enforcement, organizations are being expected to prove more, document more, and know more about every transaction. Rather than focusing on a single headline, this episode connects the dots between several regulatory developments to highlight a broader trend shaping the future of international trade. This Week in Trade CBP continues modernizing trade processes through expanded electronic filing initiatives, including e-bonds, export manifests, and vessel entry modernization. Rulemaking continues following the end of de minimis treatment, with new electronic filing requirements for informal entries and international mail shipments. CBP is evaluating additional importer identity verification requirements for customs brokers. The Department of Commerce continues advancing work on Section 232 actions, AD/CVD proceedings, and export control regulations. The FTC issued warning letters to companies regarding potentially improper "Made in USA" claims. Main Topic Although this week's news covers multiple agencies and regulatory actions, the underlying story is much larger than any one announcement. Lalo explains how CBP, Commerce, and the FTC are all moving toward the same objective: greater visibility into international trade through better data, stronger documentation, and increased accountability. Whether companies are filing customs entries, managing exports, making country-of-origin claims, or relying on e-commerce fulfillment models, compliance is becoming less about reacting to problems and more about demonstrating that internal controls, documentation, and processes are already in place. As Lalo puts it throughout the episode—"Sad but true." Key Takeaways Electronic filing and automation continue replacing paper-based trade processes. The post–de minimis environment requires greater attention to entry data and importer responsibilities. Companies should routinely evaluate potential AD/CVD exposure rather than relying solely on tariff classifications. Export compliance continues expanding into advanced technologies, software, AI, semiconductors, and biotechnology. "Made in USA" claims should be treated as compliance statements—not marketing slogans. Strong documentation and cross-functional collaboration are becoming competitive advantages. Resources & Mentions Global Training Center U.S. Customs and Border Protection U.S. Department of Commerce Federal Trade Commission Credits Host Connect with Lalo on LinkedIn Producer Global Training Center

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Jen Diaz Published: July 9, 2026 Length: 31:14 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The Consumer Product Safety Commission is entering a new era of import enforcement, and importers need to pay attention. In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome back trade attorney Jen Diaz for a timely conversation about CPSC's move into mandatory electronic filing for Certificates of Compliance. Jen breaks down what importers must understand regarding the July 8, 2026 effective date, including when products require testing, what certificates must include, and why relying on assumptions or HTS codes alone can create serious risk. From children's apparel and toys to bicycles, helmets, mattresses, rugs, furniture, jewelry, and other consumer products, the discussion makes clear that CPSC requirements can reach far beyond what many companies expect. The episode also highlights practical steps importers can take now: use CPSC's Regulatory Robot, confirm whether a Children's Product Certificate or General Certificate of Conformity is required, work with approved testing labs, and provide certificate data to brokers before entry. For companies importing regulated consumer products, this is not just another paperwork change. It is a compliance checkpoint that could determine whether goods move smoothly or get stopped at the border. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on CPSC's mandatory eFiling requirement for Certificates of Compliance and what it means for importers of regulated consumer products. Jen Diaz explains how the requirement fits into a broader enforcement trend, why importers should conduct product-level compliance reviews before shipping, and how tools like CPSC's Regulatory Robot can help companies identify applicable safety rules, testing obligations, and certificate requirements. The discussion also explores potential delays, cargo holds, laboratory testing concerns, HTS flagging, broker communication, and the importance of maintaining strong records before goods arrive in the United States. Key Takeaways • CPSC eFiling becomes a major compliance requirement for importers of regulated consumer products beginning July 8, 2026. • Importers should not rely only on HTS codes; they should use the CPSC Regulatory Robot to determine whether specific products are subject to CPSC rules. • Products that may trigger CPSC requirements include children's apparel, toys, bicycles, helmets, mattresses, rugs, imitation jewelry, pacifiers, furniture, and other general consumer goods. • Importers may need either a Children's Product Certificate or a General Certificate of Conformity, depending on the product and applicable safety rules. • Certificate data should be ready before importation and provided to brokers early so it can be filed properly with the entry. • Testing labs matter. Importers should verify that required testing is performed by approved laboratories and keep strong documentation in case CPSC questions the shipment. • Compliance should happen before sales, manufacturing, and shipping—not after cargo is already on hold. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • CPSC Regulatory Robot: Safer Products Start Here • CPSC Guidance and HTS List for Filing Electronic Certificates • CPSC eFiling Resources Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Jen Diaz – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Ashley Arnold Published: July 8, 2026 Length: 11:26 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary What do the World Cup, Beyoncé's world tour, and international trade compliance have in common? More than most people realize. In this July Tips episode of Simply Trade, host Lalo Solorzano welcomes Ashley Arnold as the featured tips instructor for the month. Together, they connect major global events, concerts, soccer tournaments, trade shows, and traveling equipment to one important compliance tool: the ATA Carnet. Ashley explains how ATA Carnets work like a “product passport” for goods that temporarily enter a country and then leave again. From cameras and stage equipment to trade show booths and production gear, these items are not being sold, but they still cross borders and need proper documentation. Instead of paying duties and taxes and later trying to recover them, companies can use a carnet to simplify temporary importation. This episode makes a technical trade topic practical, timely, and easy to understand by showing how compliance plays a role behind the scenes of entertainment, sports, events, and business travel. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on ATA Carnets and how they support temporary international movement of goods. Ashley Arnold explains that when equipment travels internationally but is not sold and must return home, an ATA Carnet can help avoid unnecessary duties, taxes, and documentation burdens. Using examples like the World Cup, Beyoncé's world tour, international camera equipment, stage gear, and trade show booths, Lalo and Ashley show how global events depend on trade compliance. They also clarify that items intended to stay in the destination country, such as promotional giveaways or merchandise for sale, generally do not belong on a carnet. Key Takeaways • ATA Carnets are useful for goods that temporarily enter another country and return home. • Carnets can help avoid paying duties and taxes upfront and then trying to recover them later. • Not everything crossing a border is for retail sale, and that distinction matters in trade compliance. • Carnets are commonly used for cameras, stage equipment, trade show booths, and other event-related gear. • Promotional items, giveaways, merchandise for sale, and goods that will remain abroad generally should not be placed on a carnet. • Customs brokers and specialized carnet service providers can help companies determine when and how to use one. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Ashley Arnold on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Ashley Arnold – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: July 3, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary This week on Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen unpacks another busy week in international trade, covering updates on CAPE refunds, post-summary correction payments, Section 232 investigations, the future of USMCA, and a major Department of Justice settlement involving Alibaba. Using Taylor Swift's "This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things" as this week's theme, Cindy explores a broader question facing the trade community: Where should responsibility begin—and where should it end? As government enforcement expands beyond importers to brokers, online marketplaces, and other supply chain participants, the episode examines how increased accountability may reshape global trade while raising important questions about fairness, due diligence, and practical implementation. This Week in Trade Members of Congress urged USTR to allow the current Jones Act waiver to expire as scheduled. The Department of Commerce launched a new Section 232 investigation involving certain coal imports. Beginning August 5, CBP will require ACH payments for duties owed on Post-Summary Corrections. CAPE continues expanding, including refund eligibility for qualifying reconciliation entries, while CBP reported significant processing progress. The United States formally initiated the USMCA withdrawal process, beginning the review and renegotiation timeline. The Department of Justice announced a $600 million settlement with Alibaba related to alleged violations of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Main Topic The episode's central discussion focuses on the growing trend of expanding legal responsibility across the supply chain. Using the Alibaba settlement as an example, Cindy explores whether online marketplaces, customs brokers, and other intermediaries are increasingly being held accountable for actions traditionally associated with manufacturers or importers. She compares this trend to recent customs enforcement initiatives that place greater expectations on brokers and service providers to identify and report potential violations. The discussion raises an important question for trade professionals: How much responsibility can reasonably be placed on parties who facilitate commerce but may not own, manufacture, or control the products themselves? Key Takeaways CBP continues refining the CAPE refund process as filings increase. ACH payments will soon become mandatory for duties owed on Post-Summary Corrections. USMCA has officially entered its formal review and withdrawal process. The Alibaba settlement signals expanding government expectations for e-commerce platforms. Customs enforcement continues moving toward broader supply chain accountability. Companies throughout the supply chain should expect increasing due diligence expectations. Resources & Mentions Global Training Center Trade Force Multiplier Alibaba USMCA Jones Act Credits Host • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer • Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar Published: July 2, 2026 Length: 31:00 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary The USMCA review process is creating questions across North American trade circles: Is the agreement ending? Are new rules already in effect? What should companies do now? In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar, Vice President of COMCE Sur and a participant in USMCA/TMEC discussions, to clarify what is really happening. Fausto explains the USMCA sunset clause, why the agreement remains in force, and what the current review process means for businesses operating in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The conversation explores the most active topics on the table, including automotive rules of origin, labor value content, steel and aluminum requirements, China-related concerns, tariffs, and the future of regional sourcing. Fausto also shares practical guidance for companies that already claim USMCA benefits and for those that previously avoided qualification because it seemed too complex. The key message: USMCA is still alive, but companies should not be passive. Compliance reviews, origin documentation, tariff classifications, and supply chain localization are becoming more important than ever. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the current USMCA review process and what it means for companies doing business in North America. Fausto explains that the agreement has not been terminated and that current rules remain in place. However, because the United States has chosen not to simply extend the agreement as-is, the countries are entering a period of yearly reviews that could lead to negotiated changes. The discussion highlights the importance of certainty for investment, the role of industry associations in shaping negotiating positions, and the compliance steps companies should take now to prepare for increased scrutiny. Key Takeaways • USMCA remains in effect, and companies should continue operating under the current rules unless and until negotiated changes are formally implemented. • The review process is expected to focus heavily on agriculture, automotive, and steel, with automotive rules of origin and labor value content receiving particular attention. • Companies claiming USMCA benefits should perform internal “sanity checks” on tariff classification, origin calculations, certificates of origin, and supporting documentation. • Businesses that previously chose not to qualify under USMCA should reconsider, especially as tariff exposure and enforcement pressure increase. • Regional sourcing and supply chain visibility are becoming more important as companies prepare for future origin verifications and possible rule changes. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Andy Shiles on LinkedIn • Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Fausto R. Lopez Aguilar – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Denise Published: June 30, 2026 Length: 21:23 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Trade compliance does not happen in a vacuum. In this episode, Lalo Solorzano wraps up the four-part series with Denise by exploring why cross-functional training and stronger internal partnerships are essential for smoother global trade operations. From classification and customs audits to cost forecasting and border delays, the conversation highlights how trade compliance depends on collaboration across departments that may not always realize they play a role in trade. Denise explains why teams like engineering, finance, procurement, sourcing, logistics, and supply chain all bring critical knowledge to the table. When those teams operate in silos, companies face rushed decisions, unclear ownership, duplicated work, and avoidable compliance risk. But when they align around shared goals, define roles early, communicate clearly, and close the loop after decisions are made, trade becomes less of a roadblock and more of a strategic partner. This episode offers practical guidance for building trust, reducing last-minute fire drills, and turning one-off requests into long-term business relationships. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the importance of cross-functional partnerships in trade compliance. Lalo and Denise discuss how departments outside of trade compliance—such as engineering, finance, procurement, logistics, sourcing, and supply chain—directly influence trade outcomes, even when they do not see themselves as part of the trade process. Denise breaks the process into three practical phases: before the work begins, while the work is underway, and after decisions are made. She explains how teams can align on shared goals, clarify expectations, make collaboration easier, and recognize contributions to strengthen future partnerships. The episode also uses tariff classification during a product launch as a practical example of what can go wrong when teams do not communicate early, and what changes when companies create a structured, proactive partnership around trade decisions. Key Takeaways • Trade compliance is most effective when departments work as partners, not isolated teams. • Shared goals help turn competing priorities into collaborative problem-solving. • Clear roles and expectations reduce defensiveness, confusion, and duplicated work. • Strong cross-functional relationships lead to fewer border issues, better cost predictability, and a stronger position with customs authorities. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Incoterms training • CTPAT training • Tariff classification • Cross-functional trade compliance training Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Denise – LinkedIn Producer: Mara Marquez

Host: Warrington Ellacott Guest(s): Yannick Trudel Published: June 29, 2026 Length: Approx. 21 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Canada is moving quickly on several legislative fronts that could reshape how importers, exporters, manufacturers, and distributors manage trade compliance. In this episode, Warrington Ellacott is joined by Yannick Trudel, Partner at McMillan LLP in Montreal, to unpack three bills recently tabled in Parliament: Bill C-35, Bill C-34, and Bill C-36. The main focus is Bill C-35, a proposed forced labor enforcement measure that could significantly expand the Canada Border Services Agency's powers and shift the burden of proof onto importers and owners of goods. The discussion compares Canada's approach with the U.S. UFLPA framework and highlights why supply chain documentation, supplier certifications, tariff classification consistency, and rapid response readiness are becoming more important than ever. The episode also touches on Canada's emerging digital safety and consumer data privacy proposals, including how data localization and cross-border data flow rules may create new trade tensions under USMCA. For companies trading into Canada, the message is clear: review the bills, prepare documentation, and be ready for a more enforcement-driven environment. Main Topic / Discussion This episode explores Canada's proposed shift from forced labor reporting obligations toward stronger border enforcement. Bill C-35 would introduce a more presumptive approach to forced labor risk, potentially relying on lists of countries, regions, entities, or commodities linked to forced labor. If enacted, the bill could require importers and owners to prove that goods were not produced with forced labor. Warrington and Yannick also discuss the broader compliance environment, including Canada's existing S-211 forced labor reporting obligations, the role of CBSA, potential appeal limitations under the proposed bill, and what U.S. and Mexican traders should expect when doing business with Canadian partners. The conversation closes with a look at Bills C-34 and C-36, especially the potential trade implications of consumer data protection, digital safety rules, data sovereignty, and cross-border data flows. Key Takeaways • Bill C-35 could shift the burden of proof from CBSA to importers and owners of goods. • Importers may need stronger supplier documentation, certificates, and proof of supply chain due diligence. • Canada may develop forced labor risk lists based on countries, regions, companies, or commodities. • Consistent tariff classification and customs declarations across borders will become increasingly important. • Proposed appeal limitations could make CBSA enforcement decisions harder to challenge. • Bills C-34 and C-36 may create indirect trade implications for companies operating online or handling consumer data in Canada. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters Credits Host: Warrington Ellacott – LinkedIn Guest(s): Yannick Trudel – LinkedIn Producer: Mara Marquez

Host: Cindy Allen Published: June 26, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary This week on Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen explores a week filled with meaningful developments across customs and trade—from new CAPE enhancements and changes to informal mail entries to the latest updates on Section 301, USMCA negotiations, and global supply chain strategy. But the heart of this episode isn't about tariffs—it's about change. Using Taylor Swift's Change as inspiration, Cindy reflects on how trade professionals can adapt and remain influential during a time when government decision-making has become increasingly centralized. She shares insights from the American Association of Exporters and Importers (AAEI) Conference and explains why relationships, industry engagement, and a unified voice have never been more important. This Week in Trade Reconciliation entries become eligible for the CAPE filing process beginning June 29. CBP announced several CAPE validation improvements designed to reduce filing errors and retransmissions. CBP finalized changes to informal mail entry procedures following the end of de minimis treatment. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that pending Section 301 investigations may ultimately replace former IEEPA tariff collections. Lawmakers continue raising concerns over declining U.S. manufacturing employment. USMCA review discussions continue, with another one-year extension appearing increasingly likely. Main Topic / Discussion While several operational updates occurred this week, Cindy focuses on something much broader: how trade professionals can continue to influence policy during a period of significant governmental change. Drawing from conversations at the AAEI Conference and meetings on Capitol Hill, Cindy explains how the policymaking process has evolved. Traditionally, agencies worked closely with industry stakeholders before major trade decisions were implemented. Today, many decisions originate from a much smaller group within the administration, making it increasingly important for companies to strengthen relationships—not only with Congress, but also with agencies, trade associations, and government affairs professionals. Her message is simple: don't wait until a policy affects your business. Become involved now, build your network, and ensure your industry's voice is part of the conversation before decisions are made. Key Takeaways CAPE continues to become more efficient through ongoing CBP enhancements. Informal mail entry procedures continue evolving after the end of de minimis. Section 301 investigations remain a major focus of the administration's trade agenda. Supply chain resilience continues to shape U.S. trade policy. USMCA negotiations are expected to continue beyond the current review period. Trade professionals should actively participate in industry associations and government affairs efforts. Relationships remain one of the most valuable tools in navigating today's trade environment. Resources & Mentions Global Training Center Trade Force Multiplier Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer: Mara Marquez

Host: Andy Shiles, Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Anna Goncz Published: June 25, 2026 Length: 33:46 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Anna Goncz, founder of Export Compliance Academy, for a timely discussion on how U.S. export controls can reach far beyond U.S. borders. The conversation begins with a recent export control development involving access to advanced AI models and quickly expands into a broader look at foreign national access, re-exports, embedded U.S.-origin components, and the impact on EU and other non-U.S. companies. Anna explains why companies outside the United States cannot assume they are beyond the scope of U.S. regulations, especially when their products include U.S.-origin parts, are made with U.S. technology, or are accessed by foreign nationals. The episode also breaks down practical compliance steps using Anna's CLEAR framework: Classification, Legislation, Evaluate, Act, and Regulate. This is a must-listen for trade compliance, legal, IT, engineering, procurement, and executive teams trying to understand today's fast-moving export control environment. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the extraterritorial reach of U.S. export controls and how they can apply to EU and other foreign companies. Anna Goncz explains that U.S. export control regulations often follow the item, meaning a product manufactured outside the United States may still be subject to U.S. rules if it contains U.S.-origin components, is based on U.S. technology, or involves controlled access by foreign nationals. The discussion covers real-world scenarios such as embedded chips, AI model access, re-export licensing, entity list risks, and the importance of coordinating across legal, compliance, IT, HR, engineering, and supplier teams. Anna's CLEAR Framework C – Classification L – Legislation E – Evaluate A – Act R – Regulate Anna emphasizes that classification is the starting point for every export control analysis. Without knowing what an item is and whether it is controlled, companies cannot properly determine licensing requirements, restrictions, or risk. Key Takeaways • U.S. export controls can apply to non-U.S. companies when products include U.S.-origin parts, software, or technology. • Foreign national access to controlled technology, even inside the United States, may be treated as an export. • EU companies may need both a local export license and a U.S. re-export license depending on the item, destination, customer, and technology involved. • Export compliance requires collaboration between compliance, legal, IT, HR, engineering, procurement, and executive leadership. • Classification is not the same as customs classification and should involve technical experts who understand the product's performance and specifications. • Companies should conduct risk assessments, review customer and supplier relationships, document decisions, and stay agile as regulations change quickly. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Export Compliance Academy • Bureau of Industry and Security Credits Host: Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Anna Goncz – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Denise Published: June 23, 2026 Length: 19:24 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Trade compliance manuals and SOPs may not be the flashiest part of an import/export program, but they are among the most important. In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Global Training Center instructor Denise to discuss why written procedures are essential for keeping trade compliance consistent, repeatable, and scalable. Denise explains that compliance does not live only in the compliance department. It touches purchasing, shipping, customs entries, finance, recordkeeping, screening, escalation, training, and more. When those processes are not documented, companies rely too heavily on memory, tribal knowledge, and “the way we've always done it.” That creates risk when employees leave, roles change, products expand, or regulations shift. This episode breaks down the difference between a compliance manual and an SOP, what each should include, and where companies should start if they do not already have a formal program in place. The key message: SOPs are not just paperwork. They are the operating system that helps a trade compliance program run with control, clarity, and confidence. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on how companies can build stronger trade compliance programs by documenting their processes through compliance manuals and standard operating procedures. Denise explains that a compliance manual is the big-picture document. It outlines the company's overall approach to trade compliance, identifies responsibilities, explains key risks, and describes how import and export issues are handled. SOPs, on the other hand, are the step-by-step instructions for specific tasks such as product classification, restricted party screening, export reviews, import entry audits, recordkeeping, escalation, and corrective actions. The conversation emphasizes that SOPs should be practical, clear, and specific enough for a new employee or backup team member to follow without guessing. The episode also highlights why the people doing the day-to-day work should be involved in creating these procedures, since real-world input makes the documentation usable rather than theoretical. Key Takeaways • Trade compliance touches many departments, not just the compliance team. • Undocumented processes create weak points, especially when employees leave or roles change. • A compliance manual provides the big-picture map of the company's trade compliance program. • SOPs provide the detailed step-by-step directions for specific compliance tasks. • Companies should start by documenting their highest-risk areas first, such as classification, screening, licensing, recordkeeping, entry reviews, and audits. • SOPs should include ownership, triggers, steps, required records, exception handling, escalation paths, systems, references, and revision history. • Written procedures make training easier, audits smoother, and compliance more consistent. • Strong documentation helps leadership see where risks exist and gives the program room to scale. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Import Compliance Training • Export Compliance Training • Trade Compliance Seminars Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Denise Smalls Altagracia – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: June 19, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this week's episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen explores the growing complexity facing importers, customs brokers, and compliance professionals as trade policy continues to evolve at a rapid pace. From new developments involving the EU tariff agreement and ongoing Section 301 litigation to uncertainty surrounding the administration's customs enforcement Executive Order and the future of USMCA, the trade community is being asked to navigate an increasingly complicated environment. Inspired by Taylor Swift's Labyrinth, Cindy focuses on a theme many trade professionals can relate to: finding a way through complexity when the path forward is anything but straightforward. What was once a relatively predictable customs process has become a maze of overlapping tariff programs, country-specific rules, component-level reporting requirements, trade remedies, and constantly evolving compliance obligations. The episode serves as both a trade update and a reminder that while the complexity may feel overwhelming, the trade community continues to adapt, innovate, and move forward. This Week in Trade • The European Union approved implementation of the Turnberry Tariff Deal, helping prevent additional tariff escalation between the U.S. and EU. • The Supreme Court declined to hear challenges involving Section 301 Lists 3 and 4 tariffs, leaving those tariffs in place. • President Trump threatened potential 100% tariffs on French wine and champagne related to France's digital services tax. • Questions continue surrounding implementation of the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement, with few details yet available from CBP or other agencies. • USMCA negotiations remain ongoing, with expectations that negotiations will continue beyond the current deadline. • The Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) is scheduled to meet July 15 as industry engagement continues. Main Topic / Discussion The central focus of this episode is the increasing complexity of global trade compliance. Cindy walks through how trade professionals are now managing multiple overlapping tariff programs simultaneously. What once required understanding product classification, valuation, country of origin, and free trade agreements has evolved into a system layered with Section 301 actions, Section 122 duties, Section 232 tariffs, country-specific exceptions, company-specific provisions, component-level reporting requirements, and detailed U.S.-content calculations. This complexity extends beyond importers. Customs brokers must understand not only which tariffs apply, but also the correct order of application, reporting requirements, ACE programming impacts, and evolving CBP guidance. Meanwhile, importers are being asked to collect and maintain supply chain information at a level of detail that many organizations have never previously required. Drawing on the theme of Labyrinth, Cindy compares today's trade environment to navigating a maze where everyone—from CBP to brokers to importers—is trying to find the correct path through an increasingly complicated regulatory landscape. Key Takeaways • The EU tariff agreement provides some stability for transatlantic trade. • Section 301 tariffs continue to withstand legal challenges. • Significant uncertainty remains around implementation of the Customs Enforcement Executive Order. • USMCA negotiations are unlikely to conclude by the current deadline. • Trade compliance requirements are becoming increasingly detailed and data-driven. • Importers, brokers, software providers, and CBP are all adapting to unprecedented levels of complexity. • The ability to manage complexity may become one of the most important competitive advantages in international trade. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Trade Force Multiplier • Commercial Operations Advisory Committee • USMCA Credits Host: • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer: • Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Kristy Guo Published: June 18, 2026 Length: ~35 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of the Simply Trade Podcast, Lalo Solorzano sits down with Kristy Guo, founder of Signature Global Network and author of The Logistics Legends book series, to explore the human stories behind logistics, supply chain, and global trade. Kristy shares why she believes logistics professionals are often invisible heroes—and why their stories deserve to be told. The conversation highlights The Logistics Legends, Volume 3, including stories of perseverance, mentorship, leadership, faith, and reinvention from professionals across the industry. Kristy also opens up about her own extraordinary journey, from being born as a second child during China's one-child policy to becoming a global business leader, speaker, author, and mentor. At the heart of the episode is Kristy's message of interdependence: no one succeeds alone. Through stories of humble beginnings, setbacks, and breakthrough moments, this conversation reminds listeners that resilience is powerful—but connection, mentorship, and shared purpose are what help people keep going.   Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the stories behind The Logistics Legends, Volume 3, a book that celebrates professionals in logistics, trade, supply chain, and related industries. Kristy Guo explains why she created the series, what she learned from interviewing and guiding the featured contributors, and why personal stories can inspire people far beyond the logistics world. The discussion covers themes including resilience, mentorship, leadership during crisis, overcoming bias, and the importance of building a life and career through interdependence rather than isolation. Key Takeaways • Logistics professionals are often behind the scenes, but their work keeps the world moving. • Many successful leaders started from humble beginnings and built their careers through resilience, persistence, and support from others. • Mentorship can save time, prevent costly mistakes, and help people see possibilities they may not see on their own. • Kristy's central message is that people are interconnected, and true success comes through interdependence, trust, and shared purpose. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • The Logistics Legends, Volume 3 • Signature Global Network • TEDx talk by Kristy Guo • Frank Desiderio   Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Kristy Guo – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: June 12, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this week's episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen examines a series of significant developments that continue reshaping the trade landscape—from ongoing IEEPA litigation and Section 122 court challenges to growing uncertainty surrounding USMCA negotiations. But the heart of the episode focuses on the administration's Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement and the concerns emerging as the trade community begins to digest its potential consequences. Cindy breaks down three areas drawing particular attention: escalating bond requirements, restrictions on foreign importers of record, and new ownership disclosure requirements. Using Taylor Swift's The Black Dog as a backdrop, Cindy reflects on the idea that some longstanding trade practices may be coming to an end. While CBP views many of these changes as necessary tools to combat transshipment, shell companies, and duty evasion, the trade community is grappling with the possibility that enforcement-focused reforms may also affect legitimate importers and trusted traders. As Cindy notes, some old habits may indeed be "dying screaming"—but the larger question is what replaces them. This Week in Trade • The Court of Appeals indicated that Section 122 tariffs are likely lawful while litigation continues • CBP confirmed IEEPA refunds continue to be processed and announced reconciliation entries will be eligible for CAPE beginning June 29 • CBP reiterated that it believes court direction is needed before refunding finally liquidated entries • House Agriculture Committee hearings highlighted strong support for continued USMCA trade integration • Debate over the future of the Jones Act continues as some groups push for its repeal • Trade associations continue analyzing the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement Main Topic / Discussion This week's episode centers on three major concerns emerging from the Executive Order on Strengthening Customs Enforcement. First, Cindy discusses the growing pressure surrounding customs bonds. As duty exposure increases, bond amounts are reaching unprecedented levels, creating challenges for importers and sureties alike. Questions remain regarding how CBP intends to apply mitigation limitations and whether liquidated damages could be affected. Second, the Executive Order's language regarding foreign importers of record has generated uncertainty throughout the trade community, particularly among Canadian companies that have historically operated under long-established customs practices. Finally, ownership disclosure requirements raise new questions about how CBP intends to evaluate importer eligibility and whether foreign ownership percentages could influence future customs treatment. While many support stronger enforcement against bad actors, Cindy emphasizes that additional clarification is needed to ensure legitimate importers are not unintentionally caught in the process. Key Takeaways • Section 122 tariff collections will continue while litigation proceeds • Reconciliation entries become eligible for CAPE beginning June 29 • CBP maintains that liquidated entries require court direction before refunds can be issued • USMCA negotiations appear likely to continue beyond the upcoming review deadline • Bonding requirements are becoming increasingly burdensome for some importers • Foreign importer of record restrictions may have significant implications for Canadian trade • Ownership disclosure provisions remain one of the least understood portions of the Executive Order • The trade community continues seeking clarity on how enforcement reforms will be implemented Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Trade Force Multiplier • United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit • Jones Act • USMCA Credits Host: • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer: • Lalo Solorzano

Host: Andy Shiles, Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Madison Lackey Published: June 11, 2026 Length: 46:08 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Breaking into international trade can feel overwhelming, especially at a time when tariffs, enforcement, AI, and shifting regulations are changing the industry almost daily. In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Madison Lackey back to the show to discuss what it is really like to enter the trade compliance field as a young professional. Madison shares her path from studying agriculture business at Cal Poly to earning her customs broker license and becoming a trade compliance consultant at Blue Tiger International. She offers honest insight into the pressure new graduates face, the importance of slowing down before choosing a job, and why certifications, conferences, networking, and mentorship can make a major difference. The conversation also explores foreign trade zones, the growing knowledge gap as experienced professionals retire, and why young people have a major opportunity to step into the industry now. For students, early-career professionals, and managers building the next generation of trade talent, this episode offers practical advice and a fresh perspective. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on career development in international trade compliance, especially for younger professionals entering the field. Madison Lackey discusses how her education, broker license, certifications, conference networking, and willingness to take on uncomfortable opportunities helped her build momentum early in her career. The discussion also highlights the current complexity of trade compliance, including tariffs, CBP enforcement, foreign trade zones, AI, and the retirement of experienced professionals. Madison emphasizes that this is a challenging but promising time to enter the industry because companies need people who can research, ask questions, build relationships, and adapt quickly. Key Takeaways • The customs broker license and CCS certification can provide a strong foundation, even for professionals who do not plan to work as brokers. • Young professionals should look beyond job titles and salary to understand company culture, responsibility, mentorship, and growth opportunities. • Conferences, webinars, certifications, and networking can help build credibility and open career doors. • Foreign trade zones are becoming more relevant as companies look for legal ways to manage duty and tariff exposure. • Relationship-building with CBP, agencies, colleagues, and mentors is essential in a fast-changing compliance environment. • Managers should challenge newer employees with meaningful work, not busy work, so they can build real-world skills. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Blue Tiger International • International Compliance Professionals Association • National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones • Cal Poly Credits Host: Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Madison Lackey – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano Guest(s): Denise Published: June 10, 2026 Length: 19:33 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary CBP is often viewed as the agency that audits, enforces, and creates stress for importers—but this episode reframes Customs and Border Protection as a practical compliance resource. Lalo Solorzano is joined by Global Training Center instructor and subject matter expert Denise to explore how importers can use CBP tools to reduce risk, improve consistency, and make better business decisions before goods ever reach the border. The discussion highlights three key CBP resources: binding rulings, the CROSS ruling database, and Informed Compliance Publications. Denise explains how these tools help companies classify products correctly, determine origin, understand marking requirements, and demonstrate reasonable care. For small and mid-sized importers especially, these free public resources can provide much-needed guidance when legal or consulting support may not be readily available. The episode also connects compliance work to everyday operations, showing how clear customs positions can support brokers, logistics teams, sourcing decisions, product design, and internal procedures. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on how importers can use CBP resources as proactive tools rather than viewing CBP only as an enforcement agency. Denise explains that binding rulings provide formal written decisions from CBP on issues such as classification, country of origin, and marking requirements. She also discusses the value of the CROSS ruling database, which allows companies to review how CBP has handled similar products or issues in the past. The conversation also covers Informed Compliance Publications, which serve as foundational guidance on topics like classification, valuation, recordkeeping, textiles, footwear, and reasonable care. While some publications may appear dated, Denise emphasizes that they remain useful because they explain CBP's core compliance expectations. A major theme throughout the episode is reasonable care. By using CBP guidance, documenting decisions, and incorporating rulings into internal systems and SOPs, companies can build a stronger, more defensible compliance program. Key Takeaways • CBP provides free, public resources designed to help importers comply with the law. • Binding rulings can give companies predictability on classification, origin, duty rates, and marking before importing. • The CROSS database is a valuable research tool, but only a ruling issued for your specific product is binding. • Informed Compliance Publications are useful starting points for building foundational trade compliance knowledge. • Using CBP resources supports reasonable care by creating a documented, defensible compliance process. • Clear customs positions help brokers, logistics teams, and internal departments avoid repeated disputes and delays. • Trade compliance decisions can influence sourcing, product design, pricing, and contract negotiations. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • CBP CROSS Ruling Database • CBP Informed Compliance Publications • CBP Binding Rulings Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): Denise – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Cindy Allen Published: June 6, 2026 Length: ~15 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this week's episode of Simply Trade: Cindy's Version, Cindy Allen takes listeners through another packed week of trade developments, from ongoing IEEPA refund litigation and new Section 301 actions to a sweeping Executive Order that may fundamentally reshape customs enforcement in the United States. While courts continue wrestling with tariff refunds, liquidation issues, and class action requests tied to IEEPA duties, USTR is moving forward with several new Section 301 investigations and proposed tariff actions involving forced labor concerns, Brazil, Vietnam, and China. But the biggest story of the week is the administration's new Executive Order, Strengthening Customs Enforcement. Cindy explains why this may be one of the most significant customs policy developments in years, potentially transforming how CBP approaches importer accountability, non-resident importers, bonding requirements, ownership transparency, and enforcement authority. Inspired by Taylor Swift's Long Story Short, Cindy argues that after months of tariffs, litigation, policy shifts, and uncertainty, the message from this administration has become increasingly clear: trade compliance is no longer a support function—it is a business-critical requirement in an enforcement-first environment. This Week in Trade • IEEPA refund litigation continues as courts and the administration battle over liquidation and refund procedures • A proposed class action seeks equal treatment for all companies that paid IEEPA duties • USTR proposes new Section 301 actions tied to forced labor concerns affecting more than 60 countries • Additional Section 301 developments target Brazil, Vietnam, and selected Chinese imports • Section 232 revisions reduce tariff burdens on certain steel, aluminum, copper, HVAC, and agricultural products • A major Executive Order on customs enforcement signals a new era of trade compliance expectations Main Topic / Discussion The centerpiece of this week's episode is the Executive Order titled Strengthening Customs Enforcement. Cindy explains that while many headlines have focused on tariffs, this Executive Order may ultimately have a greater long-term impact on importers. The order directs CBP to examine and potentially implement significant changes affecting non-resident importers, ownership transparency, importer eligibility, bonding requirements, and broader customs enforcement authorities. Many of these concepts trace back to discussions surrounding a "21st Century Customs Framework" that CBP and the trade community have debated for years. However, Cindy notes that the current approach appears heavily focused on enforcement while omitting many of the trade facilitation measures that industry groups had hoped would accompany those changes. The result is a clear signal that trade compliance expectations are increasing and that CBP is positioning itself with a larger set of enforcement tools than ever before. Key Takeaways • IEEPA refund litigation remains active and unresolved • New Section 301 proposals could affect imports from more than 60 countries • Brazil and Vietnam are now facing separate Section 301 scrutiny • Section 232 revisions may provide relief for certain importers • The Executive Order on customs enforcement could reshape importer responsibilities • CBP appears to be moving toward a more enforcement-driven trade environment • Trade compliance is increasingly becoming a strategic business necessity rather than a back-office function Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Trade Force Multiplier • Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee Credits Host: • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer: • Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Ashley Arnold Published: June 4, 2026 Length: Approximately 33 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Trade compliance has changed dramatically, and this episode digs into why importers, exporters, executives, and compliance professionals can no longer treat it as a back-office task. Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome Ashley Arnold, licensed customs broker, CCS, and founder of JEM Consulting, for a timely conversation on the evolving role of trade professionals in today's regulatory environment. Ashley explains how trade compliance now touches sourcing, finance, IT, logistics, purchasing, customer service, and executive strategy. With shifting tariffs, increased Customs scrutiny, ACE reporting, USMCA claims, duty mitigation opportunities, automation, and documentation challenges all demanding attention, the old “we've always done it this way” mindset is no longer enough. The discussion highlights why companies need stronger internal collaboration, better systems, proactive monitoring, and more visibility into what Customs sees in real time. For executives, this episode is a reminder that compliance teams need resources, support, and a seat at the table. For trade professionals, it is a call to stay informed, ask questions, build relationships across departments, and keep pushing for smarter processes. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the expanding role of trade compliance professionals and why companies must rethink how they support compliance, logistics, and supply chain teams. Ashley Arnold explains that compliance work is no longer limited to classification, entry review, or post-entry audits. Today's trade professionals are monitoring court cases, tariff updates, government notices, ACE reports, Customs requests, free trade agreement documentation, software workflows, and automation opportunities. The conversation also emphasizes that compliance must be involved earlier in the business process. Purchasing, sourcing, finance, IT, logistics, and leadership all need to work together to prevent problems before shipments are delayed, costs increase, or Customs issues arise. Key Takeaways • Trade compliance now belongs in strategic planning, not just operations. • Importers should have ACE access, run reports, and monitor Customs activity directly. • USMCA, duty drawback, exclusions, tariff engineering, and free trade agreement claims require strong documentation and audit readiness. • Automation and software can reduce manual work, but qualified trade professionals still need to review and validate decisions. • Compliance teams must build relationships with IT, accounting, sourcing, logistics, purchasing, and customer service. • Executives should ask whether their compliance teams have the tools, people, and cooperation they need. • The phrase “we've always done it this way” is a warning sign in today's trade environment. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Andy Shiles on LinkedIn • Ashley Arnold on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Ashley Arnold – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Lalo Solorzano, Denise Smalls-Altagracia Published: June 2, 2026 Length: 20:17 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this Simply Trade Tips episode, Lalo Solorzano and Denise Smalls-Altagracia break down one of the most important but often misunderstood parts of U.S. import compliance: Partner Government Agencies, or PGAs. While many importers focus mainly on CBP, duties, tariffs, and broker filings, Denise explains why customs clearance is often much bigger than paperwork and duty payments. PGAs regulate the products themselves, covering areas such as public health, safety, agriculture, environmental standards, transportation, and security. That means an entry may look correct from a customs perspective but still be delayed, detained, or refused if agency-specific requirements are missed. Denise also highlights common agencies importers may encounter, including FDA, USDA, APHIS, EPA, and CPSC, and explains why documentation, product classification, and early planning are essential. This episode matters because PGA compliance directly affects speed, predictability, cost control, and supply chain reliability. Importers who understand agency requirements before shipments move are far better positioned to avoid costly surprises and keep trade moving. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on Partner Government Agencies and their role in the import process. Lalo and Denise explain that CBP may serve as the primary border authority, but PGAs are the subject matter experts that determine whether certain products meet U.S. requirements and can legally enter commerce. The discussion covers what PGAs are, why they matter, which agencies importers commonly encounter, what documentation may be required, and how PGA compliance should be treated as a business function rather than a last-minute customs task. Key Takeaways • PGAs are federal agencies that work with CBP to regulate specific imported products. • Import compliance is not only about duties, tariffs, and customs paperwork. • Agencies such as FDA, USDA, APHIS, EPA, and CPSC may require additional documentation or review depending on the product. • Missing or inaccurate PGA information can lead to delays, detention, refusal, penalties, or supply chain disruption. • Strong PGA compliance improves shipment speed, predictability, cost control, and business reputation. • Companies should identify agency requirements before purchase orders are issued or goods are shipped. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Denise Smalls-Altagracia on LinkedIn • Import Training Courses from Global Training Center Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Denise Smalls-Altagracia – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano

Host: Annik Sobing Guests: Christine Tully and Robert Wieczorek Published: June 2026 Length: ~45 minutes Episode is Sponsored by: CBS (Corporate Business Solutions) CBS provides global business process solutions for international industrial companies.  THIS PODCAST IS PRESENTED BY GLOBAL TRAINING CENTER SAP GTS 11 to E4H: How to Convert Without Surprises Annik Sobing welcomes Christine Tully and Robert Wieczorek to the Simply Trade Roundup for a conversation about one of the biggest transitions facing global trade teams right now: moving from SAP GTS 11 to SAP GTS Edition for S/4HANA (E4H). Sponsored by CBS (Corporate Business Solutions), this episode explores why the move is much more than a technical upgrade and what companies need to think about if they want to avoid surprises along the way. Christine and Robert break down the real-world challenges of a GTS conversion, including conversion approaches, system landscape design, downtime planning, testing, governance, and compliance stability. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why SAP GTS 11 needs to be replaced Christine and Robert explain why SAP GTS 11 is no longer the long-term answer and what changes with GTS E4H. They discuss how SAP's roadmap, support timelines, and the shift to S/4HANA are pushing companies to act now rather than later. Why this is a conversion, not just an upgrade The episode makes clear that GTS E4H is not a simple version jump. It involves functional, structural, and process changes that affect how teams work day to day, from user experience in Fiori to redesigning authorizations and reviewing custom developments. What conversion approaches companies can take Christine and Robert walk through the main conversion options, including brownfield, parallel landscape, sandbox, greenfield, and selective approaches. They explain the trade-offs of each path and why choosing the right one depends heavily on system complexity and business needs. How to reduce risk during the transition One of the key themes is preparation. The conversation highlights the importance of clean master data, realistic timelines, end-to-end testing, cutover planning, and strong governance to reduce the chance of issues during go-live. Why the ecosystem matters The episode also looks beyond the core SAP system to the broader landscape, including customs brokers, logistics providers, screening content providers, and middleware. Christine and Robert explain why a successful conversion depends on every connected part being ready, not just the internal system. What day-to-day compliance users need to know The discussion covers how the move to E4H affects trade compliance teams in practical ways, including new workflows, dashboard-driven monitoring, training needs, and changes to processes like preference management and blocked document handling. Who this episode is for This episode is especially valuable for IT leaders, global trade and compliance professionals, SAP users, and anyone responsible for planning or executing a move from GTS 11 to E4H. It is also a helpful listen for companies that want a realistic view of what a successful conversion actually takes. Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter.