Podcast
Simply Trade
Hosted by Global Training Center · EN
Do you find yourself randomly classifying products… when you are not at work?
Does the reason why you jump out of bed every morning have anything to do with validating your supply chain to insure trade compliance?
Did you sit in your favorite chair with a glass of wine, paging through the latest regulations and thought to yourself, ‘what a great way to spend my free time’?
If any of these apply to you, then you are very likely a ‘trade geek’… that is why we created Simply Trade just for you.
Your hosts, Andy and Lalo have a combined 60+ years in the industry. Covering everything from logistics to technology. There is so much to learn with the ever-evolving world of trade.
We’ve invited some friends over to our podcast to simply ’shoot the ship’ on all things trade. So join us every week as we discuss current and important trade topics with experts in their field who are passionate about helping you succeed!
You’ll never run out of things to learn when it comes to trading goods across international borders.
Let’s get to it!
Does the reason why you jump out of bed every morning have anything to do with validating your supply chain to insure trade compliance?
Did you sit in your favorite chair with a glass of wine, paging through the latest regulations and thought to yourself, ‘what a great way to spend my free time’?
If any of these apply to you, then you are very likely a ‘trade geek’… that is why we created Simply Trade just for you.
Your hosts, Andy and Lalo have a combined 60+ years in the industry. Covering everything from logistics to technology. There is so much to learn with the ever-evolving world of trade.
We’ve invited some friends over to our podcast to simply ’shoot the ship’ on all things trade. So join us every week as we discuss current and important trade topics with experts in their field who are passionate about helping you succeed!
You’ll never run out of things to learn when it comes to trading goods across international borders.
Let’s get to it!
75episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Trade Compliance Is No Longer a Back-Office Function
1w ago00:33:04Tap to summarizeHost: 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 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →[TIPS] Understanding Partner Government Agencies in U.S. Imports
1w ago00:20:32Tap to summarizeHost: 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 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →SAP GTS 11 and the Move to GTS E4H with Corporate Business Solutions
2w ago00:45:20Tap to summarizeHost: 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. 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →[Cindy’s Version] The New Romantics
2w ago00:11:11Tap to summarizeHost: Cindy Allen Published: May 29, 2026 Length: ~12 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this week’s episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen breaks down one of the most intense stretches yet for the trade community as courts, CBP, and USTR continue reshaping the compliance landscape in real time. Major developments continue around IEEPA litigation, reconciliation filings, CAPE processing issues, and ongoing court scrutiny over liquidated entries and duty refunds. Meanwhile, USMCA renegotiation discussions are beginning to signal potentially significant changes to country of origin requirements, component tracing, and automotive sourcing rules. Inspired by New Romantics, Cindy reflects on the resilience of the trade community through nonstop operational and regulatory change. From brokers and compliance teams to importers and supply chain leaders, the industry continues adapting despite constant disruption. This Week in Trade • The United States Court of International Trade declined to stay its order regarding Section 122 tariff collection while appeals continue • CBP filed guidance related to reconciliation entries and IEEPA duty handling for underlying entries and 09 reconciliation filings • The court ordered the CBP Commissioner to appear at an upcoming June 9 hearing regarding liquidated entries and IEEPA duty resolution • CAPE processing continues moving forward, though brokers and importers are still facing ACE-related filing complications and edit check issues • Office of the United States Trade Representative continues active USMCA renegotiation discussions focused on automotive content, country of origin tracing, and supply chain transparency Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses heavily on the mounting operational pressure facing the trade community as regulatory, judicial, and enforcement developments continue accelerating simultaneously. Cindy explains that reconciliation filers may soon face difficult timing decisions around underlying entries and 09 filings, especially as CBP and the courts work through how IEEPA duties should ultimately be handled. The upcoming court hearing involving the CBP Commissioner signals that the judiciary is taking a more active role in resolving outstanding liquidation and refund concerns. On the operational side, CAPE continues functioning, but many brokers are encountering filing complications tied to duty stacking logic, tariff line placement, and legacy filing methods that predated clearer CBP guidance and ACE edit checks. The episode also explores how USMCA negotiations are evolving beyond traditional tariff shift and regional value content calculations toward more aggressive component-level tracing and sourcing visibility requirements—particularly targeting concerns over Chinese components entering through Mexico. Key Takeaways • IEEPA litigation and reconciliation guidance continue evolving rapidly • The June 9 court hearing could significantly impact duty refund handling and liquidated entries • CAPE is operational, but ACE and filing correction challenges remain significant • CBP help desk delays are creating operational strain across the trade community • USMCA renegotiation discussions may fundamentally change future country of origin compliance requirements • Trade professionals continue adapting despite relentless regulatory change Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Trade Force Multiplier Credits Host: • Cindy Allen – LinkedIn Producer: • Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade on LinkedIn • Global Training Center on LinkedIn • Trade Geeks Community
Transcribe →Why Mexico Is Asking Exporters for More Documentation with Miriam Name
2w ago00:34:34Tap to summarizeHost: Lalo Solorzano, Andy Shiles Guest(s): Miriam Name Published: May 28, 2026 Length: ~35 min. Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Mexico’s recent customs reforms are creating real challenges for companies moving goods across the border, especially U.S. exporters supplying Mexican importers and maquiladoras. In this episode, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles sit down with Miriam Name, Partner at Cacheaux, Cavazos & Newton, to unpack what these changes mean in practical terms. Miriam explains why Mexican authorities are now asking for more documentation, including formal contracts, valuation support, Incoterms, payment terms, and consistency across import records. She also shares why exporters can no longer rely on “the way we’ve always done it” when supporting their Mexican counterparts. The conversation highlights how deeply integrated the U.S. and Mexico supply chains are, especially along the border, and why even small documentation inconsistencies can create major risks. From pedimentos and purchase orders to USMCA qualification and broker involvement, this episode gives trade professionals a clear starting point for reviewing their processes before an audit does it for them. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on Mexico’s customs law reforms and how they are affecting importers, exporters, maquiladoras, and cross-border supply chains. Miriam explains that Mexican authorities are looking for more support around customs valuation, formal agreements, payment terms, Incoterms, and consistency across documentation. For U.S. exporters, the key message is that Mexican importers may now need more detailed support than before. That includes contracts, accurate product descriptions, valuation backup, and documentation that aligns across purchase orders, invoices, pedimentos, and certificates of origin. The discussion also touches on USMCA, increasing duty exposure, audits in Mexico, and the importance of training, internal review, and proactive compliance. Key Takeaways • Mexico’s customs reforms are requiring more documentation and stronger valuation support from importers and their foreign suppliers. • U.S. exporters should expect Mexican customers to request more information, including contracts, Incoterms, payment terms, and supporting documents. • Consistency is critical. Details such as value, origin, product description, Incoterms, and payment terms should align across all trade documents. • Companies should not assume that past practices are still acceptable. Internal reviews, sampling, broker confirmation, and outside guidance can help identify issues before they become audit problems. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Miriam Name on LinkedIn • Cacheaux, Cavazos & Newton • Trade Geeks Community Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Andy Shiles – LinkedIn Guest(s): Miriam Name – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →[TIPS] USMCA Documentation and Why Classification Comes First
2w ago00:16:31Tap to summarizeHost: Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson Guest(s): N/A Published: May 27, 2026 Length: 16:11 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson continue the Trudy’s Trade Tips series with another practical discussion on USMCA. This time, the focus is on documentation, certification requirements, and why tariff classification is the foundation for making accurate free trade agreement claims. Trudy explains one of the biggest changes from NAFTA to USMCA: the old formal certificate of origin is gone. Instead, companies must ensure their USMCA certification contains the required minimum data elements, regardless of the format used. That flexibility can be helpful, but it also creates room for confusion when documents are unclear or incomplete. The conversation also highlights the importance of identifying the certifier, exporter, producer, and importer, along with product descriptions, classifications, origin criteria, blanket periods, and certification statements. Trudy and Lalo then explain why tariff classification must come before USMCA qualification. If a company does not understand the classification of the finished product and its components, it cannot properly apply USMCA rules of origin. This episode matters because USMCA savings are valuable, but only when claims are documented, supported, and correctly qualified. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on the documentation requirements for USMCA and the importance of tariff classification in determining whether goods qualify under the agreement. Trudy explains that USMCA no longer requires the old NAFTA certificate format. Instead, companies must provide the required minimum data elements in whatever format they choose. This includes identifying the certifier, exporter, producer, and importer, along with the product description, tariff classification, origin criterion, blanket period, authorized signature, date, and certification statement. A key point is that documentation must be clear. If a shipment includes both USMCA-qualifying goods and non-qualifying goods, the paperwork must clearly identify which items qualify. Mixing unclear origin declarations with USMCA claims can create confusion and risk. The discussion then shifts to tariff classification. Lalo and Trudy emphasize that “all roads lead to the HTS.” USMCA qualification depends on understanding the classification of the finished product and the classifications of the components, parts, or ingredients used to make it. Without that foundation, companies cannot properly apply product-specific rules or determine whether a tariff shift has occurred. Key Takeaways • USMCA does not require the old NAFTA certificate form, but it does require specific minimum data elements. • Companies may use their own format for USMCA certification as long as the required information is included. • The certifier, exporter, producer, and importer must be clearly identified with the required contact details. • Documentation must clearly show which goods qualify for USMCA and which do not. • Tariff classification is the foundation for USMCA qualification. • Companies must know the classification of the finished good and the components used to make it. • Product-specific rules under USMCA depend on classification and often require analyzing tariff shifts. • Lalo and Trudy recommend understanding tariff classification before taking on USMCA qualification work. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • TruTrade Solutions • Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn • Trudy Wilson on LinkedIn Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Trudy Wilson – LinkedIn Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →When B2B SaaS Sales and Marketing Speak Different Languages in Supply Chain
3w ago00:22:48Tap to summarizeHost: Annik Sobing Guest: Niki McKinnell Published: May 2026 Length: ~22 minutes Presented by: Global Training Center Niki McKinnell on Sales, Marketing, and the Story Behind Supply Chain Growth Annik Sobing welcomes Niki McKinnell to the Simply Trade Roundup for a conversation about what happens when sales and marketing break down in B2B SaaS supply chain companies. Niki shares how her career began in public sector communications and crisis press offices, how she learned to build a story with limited resources, and how that foundation shaped the way she approaches marketing, messaging, and go-to-market strategy today. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Niki built a career around storytelling Niki explains how her path started in government communications, where she worked in press offices and crisis environments. She talks about how those early experiences taught her to think strategically about messaging, audience, and impact. Why sales and marketing break down The episode explores the most common reasons sales and marketing teams lose alignment in supply chain SaaS companies. Niki describes how different definitions, assumptions, and metrics can create friction even when everyone is working toward the same goal. What makes supply chain different Niki breaks down why supply chain has its own flavor when it comes to go-to-market strategy. Buyers are focused on their operations, not your product, which means credibility, timing, and intentional messaging matter more than ever. How to bring teams back into alignment One of the most useful parts of the conversation is Niki’s framework for stronger execution: alignment, coordination, and visibility. She explains how teams can work more intentionally before, during, and after GTM activity so they are moving with the same goals in mind. Why long sales cycles need a different approach Niki and Annik discuss how complex buying committees, long sales cycles, and deeply rooted habits make this industry especially challenging. Niki shares how companies need to adapt their strategy to meet buyers where they are. What to do when pipeline stalls Niki offers advice for founders and leaders who are struggling with pipeline. Her recommendation is to focus on the brand, demand, expand framework, with brand awareness, demand generation, and customer growth all working together to support revenue. Who this episode is for This episode is especially valuable for marketing leaders, sales teams, founders, and GTM professionals working in supply chain or B2B SaaS. It is also a great listen for anyone trying to understand how strategy, communication, and alignment shape growth in a complex industry. This podcast is presented by Global Training Center. Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →Celebrating 500 Episodes: The Story, the Growth, and What’s Next
3w ago00:21:10Tap to summarizeHost: Lalo Solorzano Published: May 21, 2026 Length: ~22 min. Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this special 500th episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano steps behind the mic solo for the first time to reflect on how the podcast began, how it has evolved, and where it may be headed next. What started during the pandemic as a way to recreate the casual, meaningful trade conversations usually found at conferences has grown into a platform with multiple hosts, recurring segments, conference partnerships, and a loyal trade community. Lalo shares the origin story of the show, from its early days with Andy Shiles to the addition of voices like Annik, Cindy Allen, Renee, Julie, Warrington Ellicott, Trudy, and others. He also talks openly about the challenges of producing a podcast, the decision to remain mostly sponsor-free, and the importance of keeping the show focused on authentic conversations rather than outside influence. This milestone episode is part reflection, part roadmap, and part thank-you note to the listeners, hosts, partners, and trade professionals who have helped Simply Trade reach 500 episodes. Main Topic / Discussion This episode centers on the 500-episode milestone of Simply Trade and the evolution of the podcast from a pandemic-era idea into a broader trade media platform. Lalo reflects on the show’s beginnings, the people who helped shape it, and the different series that have emerged over time, including Cindy’s trade commentary, Canadian-focused episodes, professional development tips, conference partnerships, and potential future segments. He also shares what may be coming next, including more trade crime episodes, possible Mexico-focused content, renewed “Simply Trade Folks” conversations, and more technology-focused discussions around AI and trade tools. Key Takeaways • Simply Trade began as a way to recreate informal trade conversations during the pandemic. • The show has grown from a simple host-led podcast into a larger platform with multiple voices and recurring segments. • Lalo wants the podcast to remain authentic, open, and mostly free from sponsor influence. • Future content may include trade crime stories, Mexico-focused episodes, technology discussions, and more career-centered conversations with trade professionals. Resources & Mentions USMCA Qualification Tool - Accepting Applications for Beta Testers Global Training Center Lalo Solorzano on LinkedIn Simply Trade Podcast Trade Geeks Community Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Guest(s): N/A Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →The Hidden Export Rule Most Companies Miss, with Josh Rodman
3w ago00:32:04Tap to summarizeHost: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles Guest(s): Josh Rodman Published: May 20, 2026 Length: 31:53 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary Export compliance is not always as simple as checking an ECCN, screening restricted parties, and moving forward. In this episode, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles speak with Josh Rodman, Senior Attorney with Schulz Trade Law, about a lesser-known export control issue involving Russia, Belarus, and outbound HTS-based controls under Part 746 of the EAR. Josh explains why Russia and Belarus are different from most export destinations: certain products may trigger export licensing requirements based on their HTS code, even when the product appears to be EAR99 and even when the shipment is not going directly to Russia or Belarus. The bigger concern is diversion risk, especially when goods are shipped to high-risk jurisdictions such as Kazakhstan, the UAE, certain “STAN” countries, or other locations where products may later be transferred. The conversation also covers routed transactions, USPPI responsibilities, the importance of accurate ECCN and HTS classification, shipper’s letter of instruction documentation, written procedures, customer due diligence, and when companies may need to consider licensing or deeper review before proceeding. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on how U.S. exporters can identify and manage export control risks tied to Russia and Belarus, even when they are not selling directly into those countries. Josh Rodman explains that Part 746 of the EAR creates outbound HTS-based controls for certain products destined for Russia or Belarus, or for transactions where there is a significant risk of diversion. The discussion highlights how exporters can miss this issue if they only rely on ECCN analysis, restricted party screening, or standard export procedures. The hosts and guest also explore routed transactions, domestic sales that may later become exports, distributor risk, documentation practices, and the need for written compliance procedures and training. Key Takeaways • Russia and Belarus are unique because certain export controls are tied to outbound HTS codes, not only ECCNs. • An EAR99 product may still require deeper review if the HTS code appears under Part 746 and there is a risk of diversion to Russia or Belarus. • Exporters should not rely solely on customer assurances, especially when working with new distributors in higher-risk jurisdictions. • Routed transactions do not eliminate the U.S. seller’s responsibilities; the USPPI should provide accurate ECCN information through the SLI. • Written procedures, trained staff, accurate classifications, customer diligence, and documentation can help protect companies when export risks arise. • Export opportunities remain strong, but companies need a solid compliance foundation before pursuing higher-risk international sales. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • Schulz Trade Law • International Compliance Professionals Association • Bureau of Industry and Security • 15 CFR Part 746 – Embargoes and Other Special Controls Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano Andy Shiles Guest(s): Josh Rodman Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →[TIPS] You Don’t Hafta FTA; with Trudy Wilson
3w ago00:13:38Tap to summarizeHost: Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson Published: May 19, 2026 Length: 13:24 Presented by: Global Training Center Summary In this episode of Simply Trade, Lalo Solorzano and Trudy Wilson return for another Trudy’s Trade Tips segment, shifting the conversation from Incoterms to USMCA and free trade agreements. The big message: you do not have to participate in a free trade agreement just because one is available. Trudy explains why companies should pause before making USMCA or other FTA claims, especially if they do not have the proper documentation, qualification process, or internal controls in place. While free trade agreements can offer legitimate duty savings, they also come with responsibility. If your company claims preferential treatment, Customs can verify that claim, and you need to be ready to prove the goods qualify. The episode also highlights why importers are not required to use a certificate just because they receive one, and why other duty-free provisions, such as Chapter 98, may sometimes be worth reviewing. Trudy closes with a key warning about USMCA preference criterion A: if you see it, challenge it. Main Topic / Discussion This episode focuses on whether companies should participate in a free trade agreement, with special attention on USMCA. Trudy explains that FTAs can be valuable tools for reducing duty, but they should not be used casually or automatically. A major point of discussion is the importance of supporting documentation. Companies that make USMCA claims must be able to prove that their products qualify under the agreement. If they cannot, they may be exposing themselves, and their customers, to verification risk. Trudy also explains that importers have a choice. Even if a supplier provides a free trade agreement certificate, the importer does not have to use it. In some cases, another duty-free provision may be more appropriate, but those options also require documentation and proper reporting. The conversation also introduces preference criteria, especially criterion A. Trudy warns that criterion A is often misunderstood and should only be used when every part, component, ingredient, or input can be traced back to the U.S., Mexico, or Canada. Key Takeaways • You do not have to participate in a free trade agreement simply because one is available. • USMCA and other FTAs can provide legitimate duty savings, but only when the goods truly qualify. • Companies should pause FTA claims if they do not have proper documentation or internal procedures in place. • Making an FTA claim can increase the likelihood of review or verification by Customs. • Importers do not have to use a supplier’s certificate if they are not comfortable with the qualification. • Other duty-free options, such as Chapter 98, may be available but still require supporting documentation. • Under USMCA, preference criterion A should be challenged unless the company can prove every input is originating. Resources & Mentions • Global Training Center • TruTrade Solutions Credits Host: Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn Trudy Wilson – LinkedIn Producer: Lalo Solorzano 📢 Subscribe & Follow Stay connected with the Simply Trade community and never miss an episode that helps you trade smarter. 🎧 Listen on: • Apple Podcasts • Spotify • YouTube 💬 Connect with us: • Simply Trade • Global Training Center • Trade Geeks Community Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions? SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Transcribe →