Host: Annik Sobing

In this Simply Trade Roundup episode, Annik Sobing welcomes back Bonnie Gutz, an expert in international trade regulation, compliance, and strategic trade leadership. Together, they explore how Europe is reshaping trade policy to balance growth and sustainability — and what that means for trade professionals worldwide.

The discussion kicks off with Europe’s newly finalized EU–Indonesia trade agreement, which removes tariffs on over 98% of goods. Bonnie breaks down the opportunities and the controversies surrounding this deal, particularly its overlap with the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). From palm oil and environmental impact to the politics of delaying green rules, this episode dives deep into Europe’s evolving priorities.

The conversation then shifts to the emergence of the “Trade Strategist” — a new kind of professional who integrates trade policy, finance, and compliance to help companies plan long-term. Finally, Annik and Bonnie discuss the WTO’s recent study on artificial intelligence and its prediction that AI could increase international trade by up to 40% over the next 15 years.

Key details of the EU–Indonesia Free Trade Agreement and its 98% tariff reduction.

How Europe’s environmental commitments — especially the EUDR — are being tested by economic and political realities.

Why palm oil sits at the center of the trade-versus-sustainability debate.

The emerging role of a Trade Strategist and why every global company may soon need one.

How AI and automation could increase global trade efficiency by 30–40%, according to the WTO.

The EU’s trade expansion efforts sometimes conflict with its sustainability goals, forcing hard policy choices.

The EUDR delay sparked pushback from businesses already prepared for its rollout — showing how compliance expectations are shifting.

The concept of a Trade Strategist reflects the growing intersection of compliance, strategy, and executive leadership.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming trade operations — from tariff classification to strategic forecasting.

Businesses that embrace AI early will likely lead in efficiency, compliance accuracy, and strategic agility.

European Commission – EU–Indonesia Trade Agreement Announcement

EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

World Trade Organization – AI & Global Trade Study

Global Training Center

Host: Annik Sobing

New Roundup episodes every week.

Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.

👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com

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