Simply Trade

This episode of Simply Trade discusses recent developments in international trade policy and geopolitical events impacting global supply chains. Topics include the designation of Houthis in Yemen as a terrorist group, China boosting EU imports to ease restrictions on technology, and calls for more ambitious EU and US trade agreements. Discussion Points: - Designation of Houthis in Yemen as terrori...

The future of trade is all about data - how we collect it, share it, and use it to both facilitate trade and enforce regulations. This was a key topic of discussion on today's episode featuring trade experts Amy Magnus and Cindy Allen. Focus on Data and Entities The guests agreed that in 2024, data and understanding entities (importers, manufacturers, etc.) will be hugely important. "It's really g...

As businesses face ongoing challenges from inflation, workforce shortages and economic uncertainty, many are looking at new strategies like nearshoring to help cut costs and gain efficiencies. This episode of the Simply Trade podcast explored how implementing a nearshoring solution with the right partner can provide numerous benefits. Defining Nearshoring Nearshoring refers to outsourcing certain...

This episode of the Simply Trade podcast discusses how businesses can adapt to geopolitical tensions and protect their supply chains. Guests also cover the impact of tariff deactivations and importing prescription drugs from Canada. Key Takeaways Businesses need to diversify suppliers and find alternative sourcing options to protect against supply chain disruptions from geopolitical tensions. Reac...

In this episode, we discuss CBP's groundbreaking work to develop global standards for digital verification that could transform international trade and supply chain visibility. Vincent (Vinnie) Annunziato from CBP shares how technologies like decentralized identifiers and verifiable credentials could enable trusted traders to be instantly recognized across borders while also providing end-to-end s...

Join Annik as she takes on the news of the week with her co-hosts, Lalo and Andy. Red Sea Crisis Boosts Shipping Costs and Delays Inflation The hosts discuss how the ongoing terrorist attacks and piracy in the Red Sea region have caused freight rates from Asia to Northern Europe to double. Shipping companies are now forced to take much longer routes around the southern tip of Africa instead of usi...

In this episode of Simply Trade, Alan Bersin continues his discussion from Part 1 on the evolution of supply chain security and trade compliance. Major topics covered include moving from federated search to federated learning, building supply chain visibility, engaging the C-suite, and strengthening partnerships between government and the private sector. Key Discussion Points: - Alan Bersin discus...

Former CBP Commissioner Alan Bersin discusses his career journey and leadership transforming US border security post-9/11 to better balance facilitation of low-risk international trade and imports/exports while enhancing security. Guest Biography: Alan Bersin - Former Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Policy at the Depart...

In this news roundup episode, the hosts discuss the trends for 2024 in the logistics industry. The topics covered include digitalization, economic headwinds, sustainability, last mile delivery, supply chain resilience, and cybersecurity. The hosts provide their opinions on each trend and express the need for further exploration and expert insights. Main Points 02:30 Trend 1: Digitalization The hos...

In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy and Lalo are joined by international trade veteran Cindy Allen to discuss navigating the ever-changing regulatory landscape in international trade. Cindy shares insights from her experience working in both the private and public sectors, including her time leading automation initiatives at U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Main Topics - Vetting new suppliers...

In this festive episode we discuss how small changes to products or accepting certain gifts could impact tariff classifications or violate trade regulations during the holiday season. They provide real-world examples and explain how modifications like adding seasonal designs or receiving hampers from foreign officials need to stay compliant. Tune in to learn how to stay on the right side of intern...

In our annual festive episode, Andy and Lalo discuss the mystery of whether Santa Claus is a smuggler. They bring on guest Erik Smithwise to analyze the legal implications of Santa's gift delivery operations. Timestamps: 5:00-10:00 - Setting up the scenario and introducing guest Erik 10:00-15:00 - Analyzing import requirements and potential violations 15:00-20:00 - Discussion of liability for chil...

Simply Trade Podcast - Work/Life Balance in International Trade Guests: Jeremy and Shannon Page, Page Fura Law Firm Show Summary: Jeremy and Shannon Page discuss running their international trade law firm together for 15 years as a married couple. They share insights into balancing demanding careers in international trade with family responsibilities and maintaining a successful partnership with y...

Summary   In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics including US liquor tariffs, logistics companies adapting to shifting supply chains, security concerns for delivery drivers, and the role of customers in ensuring driver safety. The conversation highlights the impact of tariffs on American liquor exports to Europe and the potential effects on the competitiveness of American whiskey brands...

Jen Diaz shares stories from her career dealing with criminal trade compliance cases. She discusses toxic toothpaste recalls, hand sanitizer issues during the pandemic, intellectual property violations, undervaluation schemes, and the criminal penalties involved. Key Takeaways: - Importers can face criminal charges for non-compliance issues that harm consumers like toxic ingredients in children's...

This episode of the Simply Trade podcast discusses upcoming regulations impacting EU customs rules, US whiskey tariffs, sustainable trade standards, and holiday shipping trends. Main Topics: - Proposed change to US whiskey tariff classifications and tax savings opportunities.  - New EU customs nomenclature codes taking effect in 2024. - Regulations stimulating EU trade and opportunities for import...

This episode explores the complex legal and regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis trade, with a focus on importing, exporting, and conducting cross-border business. Experts Vincent Sliwoski and Adams Lee break down the nuances of federal vs. state laws, and provide guidance on how companies can stay compliant. Main Points: - Overview of federal vs. state cannabis laws in the US - Rules for imp...

This week we hit on the hidden challenges impacting supply chains worldwide. Stories discussing Russia's covert oil exports, forced labor threats, and transportation transformations - all while previewing a can't-miss webinar on navigating today's trade disruptions. Uncover valuable insights on geopolitics, compliance, and logistics by tuning in. Main Points: Forced Labor in Supply Chains The podc...

In this episode of Simply Trade, Andy and Lalo continue their discussion with Jackson Wood of Descartes on how companies can strengthen internal collaboration and supplier vetting processes to properly manage increasingly complex regulatory, reputation, and resiliency risks in global supply chains. Main Points: Governments providing less prescriptive guidance on "risky" suppliers, creating challen...

Digital Trade Policy Changes and the Impact on Business This episode discusses recent changes to US digital trade policy and the potential impact on businesses that engage in e-commerce, data flows, and digital transactions both domestically and internationally. Experts analyze the risks and opportunities as countries consider new regulations and taxes. Marianne Rowden of the E-Merchants Trade Cou...

Topics Discussed: - Singles Day and self-gifting trends - Analysis of Black Friday/Cyber Monday spending patterns and predictions - Port of Savannah sees decrease in cargo volumes compared to last year Key Insights: - Millennials are driving the majority of holiday spending due to economic pressures delaying purchases - "Self-gifting" is a rising trend as younger generations spend on themselves wi...

Thanksgiving Episode: Simply Trade hosts Andy and Lalo sit down with industry professionals and listeners on Thanksgiving Day to discuss and get feedback on the podcast. Listener Feedback Roundtable: Simply Trade hosts Andy and Lalo sit down with industry professionals and listeners to get their feedback on the podcast and ideas for future episodes. Main Discussion - Listeners discuss how Simply T...

Brenda Smith has spent decades advancing international trade. As this episode shows, her expertise comes from experience at the highest levels of government and private sector. Tune in for insights on collaboration, leadership, and a career journey that has shaped the industry. Main Points Brenda reflects on her path from graduate school to leading major initiatives at CBP like ACE development She...

The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are taking action to reduce emissions from goods movement with $60 million available to purchase zero-emission trucks. Tune in to hear a discussion on the opportunities and challenges for greening international supply chains. Main Points - The LA and Long Beach ports will each contribute $30M from user fees to a "Clean Truck Fund" to support the purchase of zer...

In this episode, Emily Cori from Woodland Group discusses strategies for complying with green trade initiatives and carbon reporting requirements. Topics include the CBP's green trade strategy, scopes of emissions reporting, offsetting emissions, and resources for importers and exporters. Key Takeaways: - CBP's green trade strategy has 4 pillars: incentivizing green trade, strengthening enforcemen...