Series 5 – Episode 6

Hosts:

Length: ~12 minutes

In this final installment of the Trade & Tech series, Renee and Julie deliver what many listeners have been asking for:

👉 Who should we call when we’re ready to automate?

This episode serves as a practical cheat sheet — a high-level recap of the key categories of trade technology and the types of providers operating in each space.

From product and entity data to import/export execution, learning platforms, and audit analytics, Renee and Julie walk through where automation fits, what problems it solves, and what types of solutions companies are leveraging today.

They also emphasize an important disclaimer: the trade tech space is evolving rapidly. New entrants are emerging, existing platforms are expanding capabilities, and buyers should always conduct current research before issuing an RFP.

The goal of this episode isn’t endorsement — it’s orientation.

Across this series, one theme remained constant:

Trade is too complex to run on spreadsheets forever.

Technology doesn’t replace trade professionals — it strengthens them.

Clean data drives better decisions.

Automation builds structure, execution, capability, and proof.

Trade programs often rely on tribal knowledge and heroics

Technology introduces structure

Data in → Decisions out → Proof stored

Focus: Organizing trade requirements at the product and company level

Categories discussed:

Classification & denied party screening platforms

End-to-end compliance tools with workflow and audit logs

Supplier onboarding and traceability tools (including UFLPA and CTPAT support)

Supply chain intelligence platforms

Broker-enabled onboarding tools

Key takeaway:

Focus: Running the day-to-day engine

Areas covered:

Entry filing & broker connectivity

Document management & visibility

Transportation Management Systems (TMS)

Export controls & licensing workflows

Leveraging broker and forwarder technology stacks

Important reminder:

Focus: Building capability

Calendar training vs. real-time (inflow) learning

Role-based, embedded, and trackable education

LMS integration and audit defensibility

Continuous reinforcement vs. one-time onboarding

Learning isn’t a side activity — it’s infrastructure.

Focus: Proof and defensibility

Automation supports:

Classification consistency

Valuation flags

FTA claims validation

PGA data checks

Entry accuracy monitoring

Tools often connect to:

GTM platforms

ERP systems

Broker data feeds

ACE data

Business intelligence dashboards

Bottom line:

If you remember nothing else from this series:

Product & entity tech gives you structure.

Import/export tech gives you execution.

Learning tech gives you capability.

Auditing tech gives you proof.

Start where the pain is greatest:

Too many manual screening hits? → Automate denied party screening

Supplier questionnaire chaos? → Traceability tools

Entry surprises or duty errors? → Execution platforms

Constant fire drills? → Auditing & monitoring tools

And don’t forget:

Your customs broker or freight forwarder may already offer automation tools embedded in their services — often more cost-effective than standalone implementation.

Ask your broker or freight forwarder:

👉 What automation tools are already available to us?

Sometimes the first step isn’t buying new software — it’s using what you already have.

Which area of trade automation are you prioritizing in 2026?

Structure? Execution? Capability? Proof?

Join us inside the Trade Geeks Community and let us know where you’re starting.

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Host: Annik Sobing

IEEPA Tariffs Struck Down: What Importers Can Do Now (and What They Still Can’t)

In this Simply Trade Roundup, Annik talks with Scott Sorenson, CEO of SIDA Brokerage, about the Supreme Court’s decision that the president exceeded his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose broad, revenue‑raising tariffs—and what that actually means for importers on the ground. They unpack which tariffs are impacted, what stays in place, key timing details, the refund question, and how duty drawback fits into all of it.​

What the Supreme Court actually decided

Why the Court held that tariffs are fundamentally a tax, and that power belongs to Congress unless clearly delegated by statute.

How the ruling targets IEEPA‑based tariffs, not all tariffs.​

Which tariffs are affected—and which are not

Impacted:

The 2025 “drug trafficking” (fentanyl) tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China (25% under an emergency declaration).

The later “reciprocal” tariffs, also imposed under IEEPA, with rates starting at 10% and going higher based on perceived trade imbalances.

Not impacted:

Section 232 (steel/aluminum) and Section 301 tariffs introduced in Trump’s first term (2018–2019), which remain in place and were not struck down.​

Key timing: when IEEPA tariffs actually stop

CBP will stop collecting IEEPA tariffs on goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after 12:00 a.m. Eastern, February 24, 2026.

Goods entering or withdrawn before that time (including February 23) are still being charged IEEPA duties, despite the Court’s ruling—creating a frustrating “limbo” day for importers.​

The big unknown: refunds on IEEPA duties

It is still unclear whether, and how, importers can obtain refunds of IEEPA tariffs already paid.

Many trade attorneys are advising against simple protests and instead suggesting participation in, or filing of, Court of International Trade lawsuits as the likely avenue—though eligibility and timelines remain unsettled.

Open questions include whether only parties that joined lawsuits before the Supreme Court decision will qualify, and how any refund mechanism would practically work given estimates of over 100 billion dollars collected.​

New 15% global tariff under Section 122

Following the ruling, President Trump announced a 10% global tariff, then quickly raised it to 15%, on top of all existing non‑IEEPA tariffs.

This measure relies on Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, which allows the president to impose tariffs for up to 150 days.

Scott expects this to serve as a bridge while the administration seeks a longer‑term, more permanent tariff framework—possibly through new legislation or other authorities.​

Duty drawback: where it fits and where it doesn’t

Duty drawback basics: refunds of duties/tariffs on imported goods that are later exported or destroyed, a program that has existed for nearly 250 years and has become more critical as tariffs have risen.

Inconsistencies across programs:

Fentanyl/“drug trafficking” IEEPA tariffs were explicitly ineligible for drawback.

Reciprocal IEEPA tariffs were eligible.

Section 232 tariffs are not eligible; Section 301 tariffs are.

For the new Section 122 15% tariffs, eligibility will likely depend on whether they are explicitly excluded in future guidance. Historically, exclusions have been clearly spelled out, so silence may mean eligibility.​

Drawback vs. potential IEEPA refunds

Drawback is separate from any Supreme Court‑related IEEPA refund mechanism.

Importers that already claimed drawback on IEEPA‑burdened goods and later receive a broader IEEPA refund would need to avoid double dipping—likely refunding drawback amounts if they also get a full tariff refund via litigation/settlement.

For importers that don’t export, drawback isn’t an option, so any recovery depends entirely on whatever refund path, if any, emerges for IEEPA tariffs.​

Should you start or expand a drawback program now?

Scott’s answer: yes, especially if you export.

Reasons:

Tariff volatility is likely to continue, and the administration has signaled interest in more and longer‑term tariffs.

Drawback is one of the few mitigation tools that works retroactively, not just going forward.

Setting up a drawback program and getting CBP approval takes time; starting now puts you closer to the front of the line for future refunds.​

The Supreme Court has ended IEEPA’s use as a broad revenue tool, but IEEPA tariffs are only stopping prospectively as of February 24, and refund mechanics for the past year remain unresolved.​

Section 232 and 301 tariffs are untouched and remain fully in force; the tariff landscape is far from “back to normal.”​

A new 15% Section 122 global tariff is already in play and may evolve into something more permanent, so importers should plan for continued elevated duty costs.​

Duty drawback remains a powerful, underused mitigation strategy—especially given the uncertainty around IEEPA refunds and future tariffs.​

Presented by: Global Training Center​

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Host: Cindy Allen

“Tariff Friday” may go down as one of the most pivotal days in recent trade history.

In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down the U.S. Supreme Court’s 6–3 decision ruling that IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. The Court found that the authority to levy taxes and tariffs belongs to Congress, and that the term “regulate” under IEEPA does not include the power to raise revenue.

Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Opalite, Cindy walks through what the ruling actually says, what it does not say, and what importers and customs brokers should do right now while awaiting further instruction from the Court of International Trade (CIT) and CBP.

The decision may have brought sunlight—but operational clarity will take time.

• Awaiting details on Taiwan 15% MFN (or higher) structure

The Supreme Court issued a 6–3 opinion finding that IEEPA does not grant authority to impose tariffs.

Key findings:

• IEEPA contains nine enumerated action verbs — none include taxing or raising revenue

The Court remanded the case back to the lower court — likely the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) — which must now issue implementation instructions.

• When the CIT will issue instructions

Cindy’s recommendation is clear:

Continue paying duties until formal CBP guidance is issued.

Why?

• Duties were in effect at time of entry

Stopping payment prematurely could create compliance risk.

Refunds, when issued, will likely require formal action — potentially protests, post-summary corrections, or other ACE updates. Given the volume of entries involved, automatic refunds appear unlikely.

• IEEPA tariffs have been ruled unlawful for revenue purposes

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Episode: #444

This week, Andy and Lalo shift gears from tariff talk and policy debates to something just as critical — port infrastructure and cargo flow.

They sit down with Kristi App, newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer for the Port of New Orleans, to discuss her transition from a multi-generational family customs brokerage to one of the most important trade gateways in the United States.

From Mardi Gras humor to multimodal logistics strategy, this conversation dives into:

The economic impact of the Mississippi River complex

Why the Port of New Orleans is uniquely positioned with all six Class I rail connections

The realities of competing with Brazil and Argentina in agricultural exports

Panama Canal water levels and their impact on Gulf trade

Infrastructure challenges (including bridge air draft restrictions)

And the future $2 billion container terminal expansion in Violet, Louisiana

Kristi brings a rare perspective — someone who has worked export ops, import brokerage, business development, and trade advocacy — now sitting on the port side making strategic infrastructure decisions that shape supply chains.

If you work in logistics, brokerage, importing, exporting, or trade policy, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how ports think — and how that thinking impacts your freight.

The Lower Mississippi River complex feeds, fuels, and powers the world — over 60% of U.S. grain exports flow through it.

The Port of New Orleans is the only deep-draft U.S. port connected to all six Class I railroads.

Freight always has a choice — ports must remain competitive and multimodal.

Brazil and Argentina have become serious competitors in global ag exports.

The Panama Canal’s stabilization benefits the entire Gulf ecosystem.

The Crescent City Connection bridge creates air draft limitations for larger container vessels.

A new $2 billion container terminal (2 million TEU capacity) is in final permitting stages — a generational infrastructure project.

Retain, repatriate, and grow cargo: the port’s commercial strategy in three words.

Kristi emphasizes something important:

Ports are the nexus of trade — but they only work if infrastructure investments match market demand.

For brokers and importers/exporters, that means:

More routing options

Multimodal flexibility (rail + river + interstate)

Competitive Gulf Coast alternatives

Future-ready capacity for larger vessels

This episode is a reminder that policy debates are one thing — but infrastructure is what actually moves goods.

TPM Conference – Long Beach

Journal of Commerce Breakbulk Conference – New Orleans (April 20–22)

Kristi App – LinkedIn

Port of New Orleans

National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA)

Journal of Commerce

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Mississippi River Channel Management

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Series 5 – Episode 5

Hosts:

Length: ~12 minutes

In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie tackle a topic that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: learning.

With trade rules shifting constantly — tariff changes, executive orders, enforcement priorities, and regulatory updates — relying on static training or tribal knowledge simply isn’t enough. Traditional “calendar training” (scheduled webinars, annual sessions, policy rollouts) still has value, but it’s disconnected from daily operations.

The big idea? Learning must move from a side activity to core infrastructure.

Renee and Julie introduce the concept of “inflow learning” — contextual, real-time training embedded directly into workflow systems. Instead of pausing work to learn, professionals access guidance at the exact moment they need it. This shift makes compliance more resilient, scalable, and defensible in today’s enforcement environment.

Why static training creates operational gaps

The difference between:

Calendar training (scheduled sessions)

Inflow training (embedded, contextual learning)

How automation can trigger learning during:

Origin determinations

Classification decisions

Filing processes

Audit reviews

Role-based learning paths for importers, exporters, and compliance teams

Micro-learning triggered by real-time errors

Using AI to generate contextual training from existing materials

Why regulators expect documented training as part of “reasonable care”

How embedded learning reduces repeat errors and improves confidence

Why knowledge in trade is no longer theoretical — it impacts entries, exports, and balance sheets immediately

Learning must be integrated into daily workflow, not isolated from it

Automation supports better decision-making without replacing expertise

Real-time learning reduces repeat errors and strengthens defensibility

Training documentation can become powerful evidence during audits

Trade compliance in today’s environment requires resilience, not just proactivity

Take a moment to evaluate your current training model:

Is your team relying mostly on scheduled sessions?

Do your systems provide contextual, real-time learning prompts?

Have you asked your software provider about embedded guidance tools?

Have you explored advanced or hybrid learning models that combine live instruction with digital access?

Dip your toe in. Explore what’s available. Demand better integration between learning and operations.

How is your organization approaching trade training in 2026?

Join us inside the Trade Geeks Community and share what you’re doing to make learning more resilient.

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Host: Annik Sobing

First Sale Under Fire: What Importers Need to Know Now

In this Simply Trade Roundup, Annik sits down with trade attorney Mollie Sitkowski to unpack one of the hottest topics in customs right now: first sale and the new Senate proposal that could effectively eliminate it. Recorded on President’s Day, this episode breaks down—in normal language—what first sale is, why it became a go‑to mitigation tool after 2018, and what it would mean for importers if Congress redefines “sold for exportation” to a strict last‑sale rule.

2026 so far in trade

Why January felt strangely calm, and how February “flipped the switch” back into high gear for the trade community.

First sale 101 (plain English)

How multi‑tier transactions work: manufacturer → middleman (e.g., Hong Kong parent) → U.S. importer.

The valuation statute 19 USC 1401a (transaction value: price paid or payable when sold for exportation to the U.S.).

The key question: is the sale “for exportation” at the manufacturer → middleman stage, or at the middleman → importer stage?

The Nissho Iwai court decision (1990s) that allowed use of the manufacturer price as the dutiable value if:

The goods were clearly destined for the U.S. (through waybills, U.S. labeling/marking, etc.).

There was a bona fide sale between manufacturer and middleman (title/risk of loss, inventory, not just a flash pass‑through).

Why first sale became so important

Before 2018, first sale was mostly used in textiles with high duty rates.

After the first round of Trump tariffs (301, 232, etc.), almost all of Mollie’s China import clients started using or exploring first sale—because you can’t control the HTS list or which country is targeted next, but you can control value.

One client even called it “bulletproof mitigation” (with Mollie’s caveat: nothing is bulletproof in this environment).

Global context and earlier attempts to limit first sale

2007–2008: WTO/GATT valuation guidance interpreting “sold for exportation” as the last sale before import, and how most countries followed that reading.

U.S. Customs tried to adopt that approach; the trade community pushed back; Congress stepped in and reaffirmed both the statute and court precedent—Customs cannot unilaterally change 1401a.

The new Senate bill: “last sale” language

Senators Cassidy and Whitehouse have introduced a bill to amend 19 USC 1401a and define the sale for exportation in two ways:

For a single sale: the price paid by the buyer in the U.S. to a foreign seller.

For a series of sales: the last sale that introduces the merchandise into the U.S.(i.e., the middleman → U.S. importer transaction).

Practical effect: if passed, first sale is gone; only the last sale price would be acceptable for transaction value.

What this means for importers

Loss of a key, long‑standing legal mitigation tool—importers still pay duties today under first sale; they just pay on a lower manufacturer value instead of the higher middleman price.

Many middleman markups are 5% or more—significant when base duties are 20%+ on broad product ranges.

Large operational effort:

Reversing all the work done to implement first sale (data feeds, documentation, control processes).

Changing what gets sent to brokers (switching from manufacturer invoices back to middleman/transfer price invoices).

Reworking internal communication among customs, finance, accounting, tax, sourcing, and IT.

Likely pressure to raise prices and/or re‑evaluate sourcing—but with the reminder that sourcing shifts are risky when tariff policy can change by tweet or Truth Social post.

Why the government cares about eliminating first sale

When headquarters/middlemen are outside the U.S. in low‑tax jurisdictions, profit resides offshore.

First sale lets importers avoid paying customs duties on that offshore markup, so the U.S. loses both tax revenue and potential duty revenue.

The bill’s stated goals: increase customs revenue, strengthen tariff enforcement, and “simplify” CBP oversight by avoiding upstream pricing debates.

What you can do now

This is a congressional process, not just an agency policy shift—your senators and representatives will vote.

Mollie’s advice:

Educate your leadership about how much you save through first sale and what losing it would cost (duties, margins, jobs, pricing).

Reach out to congressional offices in your district/state and explain real‑world impacts on your business and employees.

Use this moment like 2007–2008, when trade community pushback and congressional action kept first sale alive.

Looking ahead

If the bill passes, importers will have to:

Stop using first sale and revert to last‑sale valuation.

Rebuild systems and procedures to align with the new statute.

Prepare for increased duty spend and strategy shifts (pricing, sourcing, cost absorption).

If it doesn’t, expect continued scrutiny and heavy documentation requirements for anyone using first sale.

Presented by: Global Training Center​

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Host: Cindy Allen

State of Grace: Tariffs, First Sale Under Fire, and a Glimmer of Stability

In this episode of Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, walks through another busy week in global trade and ties it to Taylor Swift’s “State of Grace”—focusing on the idea that, despite the shock of recent policy shifts, this is still a “worthwhile fight” for trade professionals. From new trade deals to challenges against tariff policy and first sale threats, Cindy explains what’s changing and where there are signs of hope.​

New trade deals and tariff shifts

A U.S.–Taiwan deal capping total tariffs at 15% (either limiting MFN above 15% or applying 15% where MFN is lower).

Details emerging on agreements with Guatemala, El Salvador, Argentina, and an India deal rolling back some reciprocal tariffs tied to India’s Russian oil purchases.​

Where to find official text and specifics: USTR’s website.​

Border infrastructure and electronic bonds

The administration’s threat to block the opening of the long‑planned Gordie Howe Bridge between Detroit and Ontario over funding/ownership disputes, and why Canada and Michigan intend to proceed regardless.

How this new public crossing will compete with the privately owned Ambassador Bridge for billions in daily cross‑border trade.​

CBP’s move to mandate electronic surety bond filing for all bonds, formalizing what many brokers, importers, and sureties already do—and why Cindy strongly supports it.​

Section 232 guidance softens (slightly)

New CBP guidance on 232 tariffs for steel, aluminum, and copper, dialing back earlier aggressive interpretations.

Trade groups have received written clarification allowing certain labor/overhead costs to be prorated into steel/aluminum values instead of fully loaded, even as petitioners continue to argue that none of those costs should be included.

Why importers should review the latest guidance carefully, track affected entries, and monitor the ongoing Court of International Trade challenge.​

USMCA and IEPA signals from Capitol Hill

Senate Finance Committee signaling support for extending USMCA, seeking stability before any renegotiation, while the administration is rumored to prefer separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico.​

The House vote to end IEPA duties on Canada for certain non‑USMCA goods—a positive step toward predictability, though the bill still must clear the Senate and avoid a presidential veto.​

First sale under threat

Introduction of a bill to eliminate first sale, driven by some of the same groups that pushed to curtail de minimis and oppose duty‑reducing mechanisms generally.

Why this is significant: many large importers rely on first sale, provide extensive upstream data to CBP, and enable deeper supply‑chain visibility and risk management.

Trade associations have already begun weighing in to defend first sale; Cindy flags this as a fight to watch closely.​

EU deal conditions and a big auto bill

The EU moving its U.S. tariff deal through lawmakers but adding elements like sunset deadlines and “security triggers” that go beyond earlier negotiating language.​

Ford announcing an expected 900 million dollar 232‑related tariff hit after previously anticipated automotive offsets were disallowed for several months—raising questions about how other automakers will fare and whether Ford might push back through protests or litigation.​

Global trade up, U.S. trade down

Conference insights from Manifest: global trade volumes are rising overall, but trade into the U.S. is declining, as exporters pivot to other markets they perceive as less costly and less complex.

This trend aligns with a surge in trade deals worldwide that do not include the U.S.​

Cindy connects the week’s developments to Taylor Swift’s “State of Grace,” highlighting the line: “I never saw you coming and I’ll never be the same. This is a state of grace, this is a worthwhile fight.” She uses this to frame:

How studies now confirm what many suspected—U.S. consumers have already paid roughly 1,000 dollars more due to tariffs, with an additional 1,300 dollars expected in the coming year.

How tariffs are hitting companies and rural communities: constrained exports for U.S. agriculture, rising small‑farm bankruptcies, and knock‑on impacts to local economies.

Research showing that about 90% of tariff costs are passed from suppliers to U.S. importers, then to consumers, and even to manufacturers who never import directly but rely on tariff‑burdened inputs.​

Despite this, she sees reasons for cautious optimism:

Companies challenging IEPA and 232 in court.

Large players like Ford publicly quantifying tariff impacts.

Congress beginning to reassert its constitutional role over tariffs and question security‑based justifications used as broad economic tools.

Early, coordinated pushback against eliminating first sale—stronger than what was seen around de minimis.​

For Cindy, these developments suggest the industry may be entering a state of grace—a moment where data, legal challenges, and coordinated advocacy start to rebalance the conversation and make the fight for smarter trade policy worth it.​

Credits

Presented by: Global Training Center

Sponsor: PAX AI ​

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Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo Solorzano

Guests: Jill Roseman & Darie Achstein Conway

What happens when some of the sharpest minds in trade compliance gather in one room?

In this special recap episode, Andy and Lalo sit down with trade compliance leaders Jill Roseman and Darie Achstein Conway to unpack the biggest takeaways from the 2026 Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) Conference.

From “Trump 2.0” trade policies to stacked Section 232/301 tariffs, AI in customs enforcement, USMCA uncertainty, cartel-related compliance risk, and the explosive rise in executive-level attention to trade — this episode highlights why compliance is no longer sitting in the corner.

If you’ve ever wondered whether conferences are worth the investment… this conversation may change your mind.

A seasoned global trade compliance leader with 20+ years of experience across chemicals, pharmaceuticals (pet and human health), policy work, M&A, and global program development. Jill brings a strategic perspective on mitigation strategies, first sale for export, and executive communication in today’s trade environment.

A longtime trade compliance expert with more than 30 years in manufacturing and technology, with deep expertise in exports and encryption licensing. Darie is also an instructor with Global Training Center and brings both industry wisdom and fresh insights on AI, automation, and the next generation of trade professionals.

Section 232 and 301 stacking

Mitigation strategies (including First Sale for Export)

How to translate trade policy into executive-level language

Why compliance teams are suddenly front and center in corporate strategy

AI-driven HTS classification

Automation expectations from brokers, 3PLs, and carriers

Why companies not leveraging automation risk falling behind

The importance of verification and documentation when using AI

Directors and VPs taking compliance training

Trade compliance now touching every business function: procurement, finance, HR, legal, IT, logistics

The importance of bringing compliance into sourcing and strategic planning conversations early

Keynote insights from former Mexican Ambassador Bárbara González

70% changes to Mexico’s constitution

Potential implications of cartel designation as terrorist organizations

What this could mean for forced labor-style scrutiny and due diligence

Why sending multiple compliance team members matters

Splitting tracks and comparing notes

The value of networking in complex, fast-changing regulatory environments

Why one conference per year may no longer be enough

Trade compliance is now a board-level conversation.

AI is reshaping both enforcement and compliance workflows.

Mitigation strategies require constant monitoring.

Conferences aren’t optional anymore — they’re strategic investments.

Even seasoned professionals walk away humbled — and sharper.

Learn more about the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) conference via Deleon Trade

Explore compliance education programs at Global Training Center

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Podcast: Simply Trade

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Trade & Tech Series – Episode 4

Hosts:

Length: ~12 minutes

In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks dive into the evolving role of audit automation in global trade compliance — and why traditional, reactive auditing models are no longer enough.

With increased enforcement focus from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Justice, companies can no longer rely on trust-based assertions or post-liquidation corrections. Instead, trade compliance is shifting from passive, after-the-fact reviews to active, continuous validation powered by technology and AI.

Renee and Julie break down how automated audit controls can help companies defend tariff positions, validate origin and classification claims, and identify risk before it becomes an enforcement issue — all while freeing human auditors to focus on higher-value analysis.

Why audit programs are now a regulatory expectation, not a “nice to have”

DOJ and CBP enforcement priorities impacting import compliance

The limits of traditional sample-based audits and post-liquidation fixes

What audit automation really means in trade compliance

Using technology to continuously validate:

Classification

Valuation

Country of origin

FTA eligibility

Trade remedy exposure

How ERP data changes can impact compliance in real time

The importance of defensibility over perfection

Why AI doesn’t replace judgment — it enhances it

Data readiness: understanding what data you actually have before deploying AI tools

Compliance today is about proof, not assertions

Regulators don’t expect zero errors — they expect reasonable, documented controls

Audit automation helps identify risk before entry finalization or liquidation

Technology enables trade teams to review more data with fewer resources

Human auditors are still critical — automation removes low-value tasks so they can focus on what matters most

Defensible audit programs protect both the company and leadership

Pause and kick the tires on audit automation.

Identify one provider or tool

Understand what comparisons they can run using your existing data

Evaluate what low-hanging fruit automation can remove from your auditors’ workload

Use technology to enhance — not replace — human expertise

Even testing one tool can reshape how you think about audit readiness and defensibility.

How are you auditing your trade data today?

Join the discussion in the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how you’re approaching audit automation.

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Host: Annik Sobing

ATCC 2026: Cookies, Customs Law, and Why Trade is Suddenly Sexy

Live from Day 3 of the Advanced Topics in Customs Compliance (ATCC) Conference in Houston, Annik sits down with trade lawyer Joshua Beker from Roberts & Kehagiaras LLP Law Firm (met thanks to their irresistible local cookies). Joshua shares how he accidentally fell into trade law before it was "cool," why kids are now chasing trade careers, and what brokers/importers need to fix right nowamid tariff chaos.​

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

How Joshua stumbled into trade law during school and now gets constant "how do I become a trade lawyer?" messages from students

Why 2018's first 301 tariffs (2.5% → 25%) made everyone suddenly care about duties—and 2026's even wilder environment is drawing new talent

Common mistakes still killing companies: Chinese-labeled boxes from "Vietnam," missing factory photos, zero origin verification

The compliance "magnifying glass": origin, valuation, classification now mean 50% duty swings under USMCA if you get it wrong

Trust crisis aftermath: 2025's Truth Social posts that went nowhere (Canada 100%, Korea hikes, India rollback)—how to rebuild process confidence

Cross-functional training is non-negotiable: engineers, finance, procurement mustunderstand why compliance asks for BOMs/pictures/policies

ATCC value for brokers: quick expert guidance on 232 valuations (CBP guidance often thin), E&O help, license audits, client advising (auto/steel/furniture/medical)

Joshua's 2026 Predictions:

Retraction/scale-back of aggressive trade actions (already starting)

IEEPA case decision post-State of the Union

USMCA renegotiation: all 3 countries want updates—lobby now via public comments (it works—tariff shift rules already changed from past efforts)

Policies aren't static: build living procedures that adapt monthly, assign owners, train cross-functionally

ATCC Highlights (Houston, Feb 2026):

Key Takeaways:

Resources & Mentions:

Roberts & Kehagiaras LLP: customs practice, broker E&O, audits, rulings

ATCC Conference: advanced customs compliance, Houston 2026

PaxAI & Global Training Center: Simply Trade Podcast Sponsors

Presented by: Global Training Center​

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