Host: 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

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