Simply Trade

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.

Hosts:

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New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by:

Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn

Global Training Center on LinkedIn

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Spotify

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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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Connect with Simply Trade

Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​

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Join the Trade Geeks Community

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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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Connect with Simply Trade

Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​

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Join the Trade Geeks Community

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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

Hosts:

Produced by: Global Training Center

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.

Hosts:

Producer:

New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday.

Presented by:

Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn

Global Training Center on LinkedIn

YouTube

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Trade Geeks Community

💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks!

[email protected]

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​

Listen & Subscribe

Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com​

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690​

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq​

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Connect with Simply Trade

Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​

Join the Trade Geeks Community

Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

Host: Cindy AllenGuests: Heather Litman & Sandra Langford-Coty

Long Live: Celebrating Trade Wins with Your Industry Crew

Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, delivers this week’s rapid-fire trade update through the lens of Taylor Swift’s “Long Live”—a song about shared victories and the bonds that make them possible. From congressional pushback on exclusions to critical minerals zones and a surprising U.S.-China thaw, Cindy breaks down what happened and what’s next.​

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Express Carrier Bill faces pushback

Congress demands exclusion transparency

USMCA hearing next week

EU moves fast on U.S. trade deal

HTS updates published

Critical minerals preferential zone

India IEPA tariff reductions pending

U.S.-China relations thaw?

Why “Long Live”?

Key Takeaways:

Momentum is building for more congressional oversight on exclusion processes—positive for transparency.​

Check HTS food/pharma updates immediately if affected; they’re already live.​

Critical minerals zone and India tariff details will drop soon—track Federal Register and CSMS closely.​

U.S.-China tone shift could mean stability, but verify with primary sources before adjusting strategy.​

Build your trade network now—when rules change monthly, friends in the industry are your real compliance superpower.​

Presented by: Global Training Center​

Listen & Subscribe

Simply Trade main page: https://simplytrade.podbean.com​

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-trade/id1640329690​

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/09m199JO6fuNumbcrHTkGq​

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8de7d7fa-38e0-41b2-bad3-b8a3c5dc4cda/simply-trade​

Connect with Simply Trade

Podcast page: https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast​

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast​

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyTradePod​

Join the Trade Geeks Community

Trade Geeks (by Global Training Center): https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/

Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks

In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive deeper into the intersection of trade and technology, focusing on how automation is reshaping import and export filing. From data ingestion and rules-based validation to AI-powered audit trails and workflow automation, they unpack where technology adds value—and where human judgment is still essential.

This conversation makes one thing clear: automation isn’t about replacing trade professionals—it’s about eliminating rework, improving accuracy, and exposing bad data faster. Renee and Julie also explore how governments are leveraging AI and machine learning at scale, raising the stakes for importers and exporters to modernize their compliance processes.

Why most filing errors come from disconnected systems, not bad intent

Where automation shows up in customs declarations:

Data ingestion from ERP, supplier, and logistics systems

Rules-based validation (HS, origin, value checks)

AI-driven document digitization and data extraction

Different automation models in trade:

Customs filing platforms

Global Trade Management (GTM) systems

Broker-provided technology and hybrid outsource models

APIs vs. EDI and the evolution of data exchange

The role of AI and machine learning in:

Pattern recognition

Risk detection

Audit readiness and version control

How governments are using advanced technology to:

Screen transactions in real time

Apply compliance more consistently across ports

Why automation accelerates good decisions—but exposes bad master data even faster

Automation improves consistency and speed, but does not replace regulatory judgment

Clean master data remains critical—technology can’t fix broken inputs

Leveraging broker technology can be a smart option for companies with limited budgets

Importers and exporters must modernize to keep pace with government enforcement tools

AI should be viewed as a strategic ally, not a threat, in trade compliance

Pick one area of your trade process—classification, filing, auditing, FTAs, or document management—and kick the tires on automation.

Request a demo

Explore how AI could reduce rework

Evaluate whether broker, GTM, or hybrid models make sense for your organization

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s understanding what’s possible.

Head over to the Trade Geeks Community and tell us:

What area of automation are you exploring?

What surprised you most about today’s discussion?

Hosts:

Producer:

New Simply Trade Tips episodes drop every Tuesday.

Presented by:

Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn

Global Training Center on LinkedIn

YouTube

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Trade Geeks Community

💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks!

📧 [email protected]

Host: Annik Sobing

Partnership with ICPA 

ICPA Compliance Corazón: Community, Careers, and a Fiesta of Global Trade

In this special Simply Trade Roundup, Annik sits down with ICPA’s new executive director, Elisabeth Sherrell, and board members Alicia Bryant and Kelsey Moraski to talk about what makes ICPA such a unique home for trade compliance professionals—and what to expect at the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference, “Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade,” in San Antonio. From career-defining connections to real-world problem solving over breakfast, this episode shines a light on the people, purpose, and heart behind ICPA.​

Who’s who at ICPA now

Meet new executive director Elisabeth Sherrell and board members Alicia Bryant (Edgewell Personal Care) and Kelsey Moraski (global trade, supply chain, and risk).

Why each of them joined the ICPA board and how they see the mission evolving.​

Why ICPA matters for your career

How attending ICPA conferences helped Alicia earn her customs broker license and expand her role into broker auditing, FTAs, and classification.

Why Kelsey calls ICPA one of the few places where people truly understand the real risk and gray areas compliance professionals live in every day.​

Inside the 2026 ICPA Annual Conference – San Antonio

Dates: March 1–4, 2026 at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio on the River Walk.

Theme: “Compliance Corazón – Fiesta of Global Trade” with a strong focus on community, culture, and practical problem solving.

Content highlights: deep dives on Canada (including CARM and current China‑related developments), regional customs updates (e.g., Latin America sessions led by experts like Brenda Cordova), technology and AI in trade compliance, and navigating today’s “most exciting and challenging” era for trade.​

Registration is still open, but the hotel is smaller and spots are filling fast, with many attendees registering in the last 45 days. Virtual attendance remains an option for those who cannot travel.​

Culture, community, and the “Voices of Compliance”

How ICPA grew from an idea shared by Elisabeth’s mom and co‑founder Linda into a global community where people show up for each other—professionally and personally.

Plans to honor Elisabeth’s mother in San Antonio with a memorial moment and a new Voices of Compliance performance: a rewritten “Deep in the Heart of Texas” celebrating tariffs and trade (yes, with audience clapping).​

Stories of members supporting each other through life events and why “compliance with heart” isn’t just a tagline.​

Problem solving in person

Why the real magic of ICPA happens in the hallways and at breakfast tables: people bring real problems, not just citations, and work through them together.

Kelsey’s Alex Honnold analogy: compliance pros as the climbers who truly understand the risk, and ICPA as the rare room where everyone “speaks the same language.”​

Building the next generation of trade professionals

How ICPA is actively bringing students and early‑career professionals into the fold, including full conference scholarships (like for student Jake Boggs, who left with multiple job offers).

Elisabeth’s 20‑year vision: seeing “trade compliance professional” standing alongside firefighter and nurse on career day—and why she wants to introduce more young people to this path.​

Hot topics Alicia and Kelsey are watching at ICPA

Technology and AI: why you can’t just “slap tech” on broken processes—garbage in, garbage out—and how companies are really rolling out tools in compliance.

Volatility and gray areas: how different companies are interpreting risk, handling USMCA changes, and navigating fast‑moving geopolitical shifts, especially in Canada and beyond.​

2026 ICPA Annual Conference – Compliance Corazón: Fiesta of Global Trade

Dates: March 1–4, 2026

Location: Grand Hyatt San Antonio, River Walk

Format: In‑person with virtual option

Focus: Practical sessions, regional experts, technology, risk, and a strong emphasis on networking, mentorship, and community.​

ICPA Europe Conference

Location: Dresden Germany, April 8-10, Hilton ​

Credits

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