Simply Trade

Simply Trade [News]: Sustainable Green Ports, China’s Surging Chip Trade, and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework

The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports are taking action to reduce emissions from goods movement with $60 million available to purchase zero-emission trucks. Tune in to hear a discussion on the opportunities and challenges for greening international supply chains.
Main Points- The LA and Long Beach ports will each contribute $30M from user fees to a "Clean Truck Fund" to support the purchase of zero-emission trucks. This could jumpstart a transition at a critical point in international supply chains.- Ports are a promising place to introduce emission-free vehicles due to their contained operating areas and short-haul routes. However, challenges remain around infrastructure, costs, and long-term viability. - Progress on the US-China Indo-Pacific Economic Framework remains slow and more work is needed to finalize agreements on climate, supply chain resilience, and other issues.Transitioning to green technologies in international logistics and trade will require coordinated global efforts. This episode explored some on-the-ground initiatives and ongoing discussions that aim to reduce emissions and build more sustainable supply chains over the long run.
Enjoy the show.
Host: Annik Sobing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.
 

Cutting Through the Greenwash: A Practical Approach to Sustainability Compliance with Emily Cori

In this episode, Emily Cori from Woodland Group discusses strategies for complying with green trade initiatives and carbon reporting requirements. Topics include the CBP's green trade strategy, scopes of emissions reporting, offsetting emissions, and resources for importers and exporters.
Key Takeaways:- CBP's green trade strategy has 4 pillars: incentivizing green trade, strengthening enforcement, accelerating innovation, and improving climate resilience- Emissions are categorized into Scope 1, 2, and 3 - manufacturers must track all 3, others focus on Scope 3 - Offsetting emissions through sustainable practices like remote work or recycling- Traceability is challenging but critical for manufacturers to comply with regulations- Voluntary programs are better than mandatory requirements to get companies started- Consultants like Woodland Group can provide carbon reporting and traceability services
Action Steps:- Understand Scope 1-3 emissions and how they apply to your business - Research carbon offsetting programs and sustainable practices- Consider traceability challenges and solutions for supply chain visibility- Contact experts like Woodland Group for carbon reporting assistance- Stay up to date on evolving regulations from agencies like CBP and the EU
Enjoy the show!
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Emily Cori - www.linkedin.com/in/emily-cori
Sam Warren - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-read-warren/
Woodland Group Website: https://www.woodlandgroup.com/ 
Woodland Group LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/woodland-group-ltd 
 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.

Simply Trade [News]: Inside the High-Stakes Fight Over the Budget Deadline - What A Shutdown Means for Your International Business

In this episode, guests from the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA) discuss the looming threat of another US government shutdown and how it could severely impact international trade.
Key Topics:
- The differences in the current political climate compared to the last shutdown and why reaching a budget deal will be more challenging.
- How specific government agencies like EPA would be affected and the regulatory delays importers could face if they're not deemed "essential."
- How prolonged port congestion and supply chain disruptions would financially strain shippers and hurt perishable goods.
- Actions citizens and trade groups can take to urge Congress to pass a budget and avoid unnecessary economic damage.
- Issues surrounding the de minimis threshold and debate around potentially lowering it due to security concerns vs. increased costs for consumers.
By understanding the complex political and logistical implications of a shutdown, listeners gain insight into pressuring lawmakers and preparing their businesses for potential disruptions to international trade flows.
Enjoy the show.
Host: Annik Sobing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Resources:
Megan Montgomery - https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-montgomery-a25b9112/ 
 
Michael Lahar - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lahar-73715423/ 
NCBFAA - https://www.ncbfaa.org/ 
NCBFAA Letter to the Trade community - https://www.ncbfaa.org/about-ncbfaa/ncbfaa-prepares-for-government-shutdown 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.
 

The Business of Helping Small Business Grow Internationally with Laurent Kahl

In this episode of Simply Trade, hosts Andy and Lalo discuss the opportunities and challenges small businesses face when looking to expand into international trade. Their guest, Laurent Kahl from the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center, shares valuable insights on the resources available to help companies navigate importing, exporting, and global growth.
Key topics covered include:
- The 90% of consumers that exist outside the US and untapped potential for American companies internationally
- Services the SBDC offers like market research, financing assistance, logistics support, and trade compliance training
- How the planning process works and importance of developing a strategic game plan for international expansion
- Examples of clients the SBDC has helped break into new markets like a chemical manufacturer exporting to China
- Documentation, labeling requirements, and other compliance considerations for importing
- Options for sourcing products from alternative countries to diversify supply chains
- Financing assistance programs through SBA, Ex-Im Bank and other partners
- Training resources on the mechanics of international trade through webinars and conferences
Small business owners and executives looking to explore global opportunities will find valuable guidance on utilizing free SBDC consulting services to help strategize expansion plans and navigate regulatory requirements. Listeners gain insight on how to take the first steps into international trade and resources available to help small companies compete on a global scale.
Enjoy the show!
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Laurent Kahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurentkahl/  
Georgia SBDC - www.georgiasbdc.org
Looking for an SBDC near you: https://americassbdc.org/find-your-sbdc/
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.

Simply Trade [Folks] - Follow Your Passion: Renee Chiuchiarelli’s Journey from Trade Professional to Educator

In this episode, Renee Chiuchiarelli shares over 30 years of experience in international trade compliance and her career journey. She details roles at companies like HoMedics, Teledyne, and Raytheon before contracting COVID-19, prompting self-reflection.
Renee emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, continuing education and mentorship for career development. She highlights mentees who advanced with her guidance.
When discussing leadership, Renee stresses mentoring others, especially women. She provides best practices gleaned from implementing tools to help with management.
Although succeeding in management, Renee's lifelong passion was education. After COVID, she reconnected with this calling and career roots. Renee answers the call to join Global Training Center as a Subject Matter Expert and instructor.
Listeners will gain invaluable lessons on international trade, career growth and leadership from Renee's diverse experience. Her story culminates in following her passion back to education and training others in the industry.
Enjoy the show.
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Renee Chuichiarelli - https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-chiuchiarelli-8964a19/ 
Free Year End Webinar - https://globaltrainingcenter.com/year-in-review/  
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.
 

Simply Trade [News]: U.S. Export Ban on Firearms, Shipping Delays..Again, and Big Oil M&A Activity

In this episode of the Simply Trade podcast, the hosts discuss recent news articles related to international trade. One article discusses the US halting exports of most civilian firearms for 90 days due to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza.
Key Points:
The US Department of Commerce issued a temporary halt on issuing export licenses for civilian firearms and ammunition to non-government entities. This aims to curb arms being sent to areas of conflict.
Exceptions will be made for exports to close US allies like Ukraine and Israel.
The 90-day halt impacts US firearm manufacturers who export civilian guns abroad, like Ruger and Smith & Wesson. They cannot ship these products for now.
Other topics discussed include big oil mergers between Exxon/Pioneer and Chevron/Hess, and reduced ship passages through the Panama Canal due to ongoing drought.
This podcast provides valuable insight for those in the international trade, importing/exporting and firearms industries. The temporary US arms export ban and mergers in the oil sector present challenges and opportunities to monitor.
Enjoy the show.
Host: Annik Sobing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Resources:
EXTRA: How to Attract Megaprojects: Become a Megasite https://www.inboundlogistics.com/articles/how-to-attract-megaprojects-become-a-megasite/ 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.

Learn How Establishing a Foreign Trade Zone Can Attract New Manufacturers and Businesses with Joe Quiñonez

In this episode, Joe Quinonez discusses how establishing a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) can generate economic development and jobs for local communities. Learn about the application process to become an FTZ grantee and how businesses can take advantage of duty savings and cash flow benefits.
Joe explains the FTZ application process and requirements for communities looking to establish an FTZ. An overview of the benefits for manufacturers is provided using the example of importing bicycle parts and exporting finished bicycles. Significant duty savings are possible through inverted tariffs. Proper collaboration between local governments, chambers and industry is key to a successful application.
Takeaways:
FTZs provide incentives to attract businesses and manufacturers interested in international trade
Duty savings and improved cash flow make FTZs an important economic development tool
Communities should investigate applying for an FTZ grantee designation to open up these benefits
Consultants are available to assist with the application and help businesses utilize FTZ programs
Enjoy the show.
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Jose Quiñonez - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-q-739a126/ 
EP Global Consulting - https://www.epglobalconsulting.net/ 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.

[Forced Labor Series] Scalable Forced Labor Compliance: Eliminate Forced Labor Risk from Day One with Todd Smith

This episode discusses strategies importers can use to prevent forced labor and comply with regulations like the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). Todd Smith of KYG Trade shares how technology can help map supply chains, vet suppliers, and quickly provide documentation to rebut forced labor claims.
Key Topics:- Understanding "rebuttable presumption" and the 30 day deadline to prove no forced labor - Why manual audits can't keep up - the need for supply chain mapping and data integration- Red flags like suppliers in Xinjiang and how components may originate from high-risk areas- Using testing, imagery, and other tools to verify raw material sources and eliminate risk- Best practices like vetting new suppliers before issuing POs and verifying claims after- How KYG Trade's platform streamlines data collection and shares attestations with authorities
Takeaways: Importers must proactively map supply chains, vet suppliers, and integrate data to quickly respond to forced labor allegations. New suppliers and products require extra diligence. Technology makes compliance scalable for all size companies. Planning ahead eliminates risk of seized shipments and business disruptions.
Enjoy the show!!
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Todd Smith - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddrsmith/ 
KYG Trade - www.kygtrade.com 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.
 
 

Simply Trade [Crimes]: Deceptive Importing Practices - A Customs Compliance Cautionary Tale with Larry Hanson

On this Halloween episode of Simply Trade, host Larry Hanson shares a chilling true story of a company that failed to follow international trade regulations. What started as a routine investigation turned into threats of decades in prison.
Main Points
The importance of supplier due diligence and verifying country of origin claims
How ignoring customs inquiries can escalate issues into criminal cases
Contracts should address tariff risks beyond a supplier's control
Why engaging trade counsel early is key to avoiding search warrants
Proper documentation and transparency help avoid assumptions of criminal intent
Larry's cautionary tale serves as an important reminder of compliance's role in protecting livelihoods. By sharing real-world lessons, this episode emphasizes that prevention is better than facing potentially ruinous penalties. Listen in to learn how even inadvertent mistakes can have serious legal consequences if not addressed promptly with expert guidance. Subscribe and leave a review to hear more practical trade compliance guidance.
Enjoy the show.  
Full show with video available on www.gtc.trade/pod
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Show references:
Global Training Center - www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Simply Trade Podcast - twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
Lawrence Hanson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-hanson-1bba9014/ 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.

Simply Trade [News]: Upcoming Trade Policy Changes to Watch and the Impact on Your International Business

In this episode of Simply Trade, host Annik discusses the latest trade news with co-hosts Andy and Lalo. Topics include a potential trade deal between Australia and the EU that has farmers concerned, China placing new restrictions on graphite exports, and ongoing US export controls on chip-making equipment.
Trade professionals, business owners, and those interested in global economics will learn about:- A dispute over import quotas in a proposed Australia-EU trade deal and how it may impact farmers - Why graphite buyers are stocking up ahead of China's new export restrictions taking effect in December- The debate around US controls on sales of chip-making machines containing US parts to China
The episode also mentions the sad news of a cargo ship sinking off Germany with crew missing. Overall, listeners will gain valuable industry insights while celebrating Annik's birthday with fun facts about the German origins of birthday cakes.
For those wanting to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in international trade, policy, and global business, be sure to listen to this informative episode of Simply Trade. New episodes post every Monday.
Enjoy the show.
Host: Annik Sobing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/ 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Co-Producer: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-marquez-a00a111a8/
Resources:
EXTRA: How to Attract Megaprojects: Become a Megasite https://www.inboundlogistics.com/articles/how-to-attract-megaprojects-become-a-megasite/ 
Contact SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or message @SimplyTradePod for:
Advertising and sponsoring on Simply Trade
Requests to be on the show as guest
Suggest any topics you would like to hear about
Simply Trade is not a law firm or an advisor. The topics and discussions conducted by Simply Trade hosts and guests should not be considered and is not intended to substitute legal advice. You should seek appropriate counsel for your own situation. These conversations and information are directed towards listeners in the United States for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only and should not be In substitute for legal advice. No listener or viewer of this podcast should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this podcast without first seeking legal advice from counsel. Information on this podcast may not be up to date depending on the time of publishing and the time of viewership. The content of this posting is provided as is, no representations are made that the content is error free. The views expressed in or through this podcast are those are the individual speakers not those of their respective employers or Global Training Center as a whole. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this podcast are hereby expressly disclaimed.