Simply Trade

[TIPS] Difficult Conversations — When You’re the Catcher

Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie ParksSeries: Difficult Conversations (Episode 3)Format: Trade Tip Tuesday | Hammer & HeelsLength: ~8 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🔍 Episode Summary
In this Trade Tip Tuesday episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee Chiuchiarelli and Julie Parks continue their Difficult Conversations series by shifting perspectives — from the pitcher to the catcher.
Not every tough conversation is initiated by you. Sometimes, you’re on the receiving end — caught off guard, underprepared, or unsure how to respond in the moment. This episode provides a practical framework to help trade professionals listen, respond, and lead with clarity when they’re the ones being approached.
Using the same GGCC acronym introduced in the previous episode, Renee and Julie walk through how to apply it when you’re the listener, ensuring difficult discussions remain productive, respectful, and solutions-focused.
🧠 Key Learnings
When you’re the catcher in a difficult conversation, use the GGCC framework:
G — GratitudeAcknowledge the conversation and thank the other person for bringing the issue forward.
G — GravityRecognize the seriousness of the issue and validate the weight of the concern being shared.
C — Clarify & CommitListen fully, reflect back what you heard, and commit to working toward a resolution — even if the answer isn’t immediate.
C — Closing (Consider, Comply, or Reject)Be honest and transparent about next steps. You may need time to consider, you may comply immediately, or — in rare cases — reject the request after thoughtful evaluation.
📌 Why This Matters in Trade
In trade compliance, logistics, customs, and global operations, difficult conversations are unavoidable — from resource constraints and compliance gaps to performance concerns and project pressures.
How you receive these conversations is just as important as how you initiate them. This framework helps:
Reduce defensiveness
Build trust and credibility
Create space for thoughtful, compliant decision-making
Strengthen leadership communication skills
🧩 FIO (Figure It Out) — This Week’s Action Item
Take a moment to pause and take inventory.
Ask yourself:
What difficult conversations might be coming my way?
What issues may be bubbling up in my team or organization?
Where could someone need clarity, support, or a decision from me?
Being mentally prepared — even without knowing specifics — allows you to respond with intention instead of reaction.
Once you’ve done your FIO, head into the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how it went.
👉 Trade Geeks Community
🔗 Keep the Conversation Going
This episode builds directly on the previous discussion about being the pitcher. Be sure to listen to both — and don’t miss the upcoming role-play episode where Renee and Julie bring both perspectives together.
🎧 Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
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Presented by:Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 https://www.globaltrainingcenter.com/?utm_source=SimplyTradePodcast
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[ROUNDUP] AI is not what you think it is

Host: Annik SobingGuest: John Petitte, Co‑Founder at Trade Insight AILength: ~27 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
GTC Course Details: 
Mergers & Acquisitions Course
In this Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing sits down with tech entrepreneur John Petitte to explore what really happens when technology meets trade. Coming from a software and AI background—not customs or logistics, John shares an “outsider” view on how critical, yet invisible, the trade compliance world is, and why it’s such a powerful use case for modern AI tools. The conversation covers how he and co‑founder Hal first targeted classification, where AI genuinely works today, and why current “agent” hype doesn’t match on‑the‑ground adoption.
Together, they unpack the difference between true productivity gains and marketing promises, why large language models fit text‑heavy work like trade compliance and law, and how small firms can use AI to punch above their weight instead of fearing job loss. Annik and John also dig into where AI is (and isn’t) a good fit—from code and internal tools to art, music, and marketing—and what trade professionals should focus on as 2026 approaches.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How a technologist first discovered trade compliance and saw opportunity in classification
Why trade is “hypercritical” to daily life yet largely invisible to the public
The gap between AI/agent hype and actual business adoption and ROI
The difference between large language models and other AI types (e.g., world models, robotics)
Why text‑heavy fields like trade compliance, law, and coding are prime candidates for LLMs
Practical examples of where AI already saves hours per week (e.g., internal tools, newsletters)
Why regulators still expect human “reasonable care” between AI outputs and government filings
How small brokers, consultants, and firms can use AI to compete with much larger players
Strategic tips for picking specific, narrow use cases instead of trying to “AI everything”
Key Takeaways
AI in trade is best used for focused, well‑defined tasks—not as a magic “replace everything” button.
Compliance remains insulated from full automation because regulators still require human oversight.
Small firms that ignore AI risk falling further behind large players who are already exploring it.
Understanding which type of AI you’re using (and why) is essential to getting real value, not just buzz.
CreditsHost: Annik SobingGuest: John PetitteProducer: Annik Sobing
Subscribe & FollowNew Roundup episodes every week.Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade Geeks Community
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[Cindy's Version] Delicate - A Fragile Trade Moment

Host: Cindy AllenPublished: December 12Length: ~11 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
In this “Cindy’s Version” news roundup, Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, uses Taylor Swift’s “Delicate” as the backdrop for a candid look at how fragile global trade feels right now. She walks through the latest data points on slowing U.S. imports, resilient China–world trade flows, and small-business confidence, then zooms in on a new Section 301 case against Nicaragua and what it signals about future trade actions.
Cindy also breaks down a recent Cato Institute report on effective U.S. duty rates, showing how average tariffs have climbed far above historic norms and why pre‑tariff stockpiling temporarily masks the true cost picture. She explains the mounting complexity of stacked tariffs, derivative duties, and the end of de minimis, as well as the uncertainty created by ongoing 232 and IEEPA actions and the landmark Supreme Court case. Throughout, she stresses how this volatility affects planning, hiring, and cash flow for importers and exporters—leaving many in a “delicate” position heading into the new year.
 
Key Takeaways
Average U.S. duty rates are far above pre‑tariff levels, and the true burden is still emerging.
Legal strategy around injunctions and refund rights is now central to trade risk management.
Tariff complexity and uncertainty have their own price tag—in planning, inventory, and talent.
For many companies, 2025 planning is less about perfect forecasts and more about building resilience in a very “delicate” trade environment.
CreditsHost: Cindy Allen, TradeForce Multiplier
Subscribe & FollowNew “Cindy’s Version” trade roundups periodically.Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
Connect with us:Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedInGlobal Training Center on LinkedInYouTubeSpotifyApple PodcastsTrade 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?📩 Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod

The Human Cost of Tariffs: Detroit Axle’s Fight for Survival Under Trump’s Trade Policies

Episode: #408Hosts: Andy Shiles & Lalo SolorzanoGuest(s): Mike Musheinesh, CEO of Detroit AxlePublished: Insert dateLength: ~39 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
Episode Summary
In one of our most powerful and revealing episodes of the year, Andy and Lalo sit down with Mike Musheinesh, CEO of Detroit Axle, to expose the real-world, real-human impact of the accelerated tariff changes implemented under the Trump administration.
This conversation is raw, emotional, and brutally honest.It blends economics, politics, business strategy, and human reality into the clearest picture yet of what happens when tariff changes hit industries faster than companies can possibly adapt.
Detroit Axle — a family-built, half-billion-dollar U.S. company employing hundreds across Detroit, El Paso, and Juarez — is now facing seismic pressures from massive tariff spikes, sudden de minimis repeal, skyrocketing materials costs, slowed consumer spending, and policy decisions made with little warning.
Mike breaks down:
How tariffs jumped from $25,000 per $1M of imports… to $625,000–$725,000
Why overnight policy changes destroyed logistics models built over 30 years
Why these decisions threaten not just executives, but hundreds of families
How Detroit Axle trains returning citizens, rebuilds parts manually, and sustains U.S. jobs
Why even supportive CEOs struggle when change comes so suddenly
How the company is pivoting toward Canada and Mexico
Why Congress vs. Presidential authority may redefine U.S. trade policy
And why the Supreme Court’s ruling could make or break this company’s future
This episode is the perfect capstone to a year full of tariff discussions — tying everything together through a real, relatable, human story.
 Key Learnings & Takeaways
1. Tariff volatility isn’t just policy — it’s people
Detroit Axle employs hundreds across three countries.A sudden repeal of de minimis and massive tariff spikes have already paused a 350,000 sq ft Detroit expansion — affecting jobs, families, and local economies.
2. The cost increases are staggering
Tariffs on a million dollars of imports climbed:
From $25,000
To $625,000–$725,000Companies cannot absorb increases of this scale without raising prices or reducing investment.
3. Abrupt policy changes destroy planning cycles
Congress initially set a 2027 timeline.The administration moved that to 2025, leaving companies with no runway to pivot.
4. De minimis repeal hurts much more than China
Small businesses, U.S. e-commerce, border operations in El Paso/Juarez, and consumers all pay the price.
5. Tariffs were intended to bring leverage — but reciprocity hasn’t followed
Countries such as India and Vietnam lowered tariffs on U.S. goods……but the U.S. didn’t lower tariffs in return, creating tension and reducing competitiveness.
6. America’s manufacturing gap is now painfully visible
Mike explains the loss of:
Machinery
Skills
Manual trades
Technical knowledgeReplacing that ecosystem takes years, not weeks.
7. The Supreme Court case could reshape trade authority
The outcome may determine:
Whether presidential tariff power remains broad
Whether Congress must reassert authority
And whether companies like Detroit Axle get relief
 Episode Resources
Detroit Axle – Learn more about Mike’s company:Detroit Axle Website
Mike Musheinesh (LinkedIn)Connect with Mike
Learn more about Global Training Center programs:
Trade Compliance Courses
Trade Strategist Training
Join the Trade Geeks Community:Trade Geeks Portal
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[NCBFAA] Regulatory Agencies Committee Year in Review

Episode: NCBFAA Spotlight: Understanding the Regulatory Agencies Committee (RAC)Host: Lalo SolorzanoGuest(s):• Michael Lahar – Chair, NCBFAA RAC (LinkedIn)• Adam Lees – Vice Chair, NCBFAA RAC (LinkedIn)• Cindy Thomas – Counsel, NCBFAA RAC (LinkedIn)Published: November 2025Length: ~34 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🧾 Episode Summary
In this special collaboration episode with the NCBFAA, Lalo sits down with members of the Regulatory Agencies Committee (RAC) — the team that engages with all Participating Government Agencies (PGAs) outside of CBP on behalf of the brokerage, freight forwarding, and logistics community.
Committee Chair Michael Lahar, Vice Chair Adam Lees, and Counsel Cindy Thomas walk through the RAC’s unique role, its 15 subcommittees, and how 2025 proved to be one of the most unusual years in recent memory. From staffing reductions under the Department of Justice’s GOGE initiative, to the still-ongoing government shutdown, to FDA’s surprise launch of the National Entry Review (NER) Program, the RAC has spent the year rebuilding agency relationships, troubleshooting major regulatory changes, and guiding NCBFAA members through rapidly shifting expectations.
The conversation highlights the RAC’s critical liaison function — ensuring brokers aren’t left in the dark, building interagency cooperation, and helping PGAs understand how brokers function as “force multipliers” in the import ecosystem.
The episode closes with a forward look at 2026, including the CPSC and Fish & Wildlife ACE mandates, the National Marine Fisheries implementation of MMPA requirements, and what brokers need to prepare for now.
🗝️ Key Takeaways
RAC represents brokers and freight forwarders across 15 PGA subcommittees, interacting with agencies from USDA and CPSC to FDA, EPA, APHIS, and Fish & Wildlife.
Government shutdown impacts varied widely across PGAs — some were fully dark, others partially functioning.
Staffing reductions under GOGE hit PGAs hard, creating delays and inexperienced replacements.
FDA’s National Entry Review (NER) Program launched with only 30 days’ notice, causing friction but improving week by week.
Interagency cooperation is growing, with agencies proactively engaging the RAC for the first time.
Brokers are increasingly recognized as “force multipliers” for enforcement efficiency.
2026 will bring major ACE mandates for CPSC and Fish & Wildlife — importers must prepare now.
AI is being used across PGAs, often without transparency.
Resilience across both industry and government was the defining theme of 2025.
🔍 Topics Covered
Structure & mission of the RAC
PGA staffing and shutdown impacts
FDA NER rollout challenges
Rebuilding agency relationships
Interagency collaboration wins
AI use in trade enforcement
2026 ACE mandates (CPSC, FWS)
National Marine Fisheries MMPA enforcement
Preparing brokers for regulatory change
NCBFAA Annual Conference preview
📚 Resources & Mentions
NCBFAA – National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (Website)
FDA – National Entry Review (NER) Program (Referenced during the episode)
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Website)
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) – ACE Filing Program (Website)
Global Training Center (Website)
🎤 Credits
Hosts:• Lalo Solorzano (LinkedIn)
Guests:• Michael Lahar – Chair, RAC (LinkedIn)• Adam Lees – Vice Chair, RAC (LinkedIn)• Cindy Thomas – Counsel, RAC (LinkedIn)
Produced by: Global Training CenterNotes prepared by: The Simply Trade Team
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[TIPS] GGCC: A Simple Framework for Starting Tough Conversations (The “Pitcher” Role)

Hosts
Renee Chiuchiarelli- LinkedIn
Julie Parks - LinkedIn
Published Date
December 9, 2025
Episode Length
~7 minutes
Episode Summary
The Pitcher’s Playbook for Difficult Conversations
In this second episode of the Difficult Conversations series, Renee and Julie break down how to navigate tough discussions when you are the one initiating them — the Pitcher role.
To make the process easier, they introduce a simple, repeatable acronym that works for any difficult conversation:
GGCC
Greeting: Open with appreciation and set a positive tone
Groundwork: Provide context and explain why the conversation is needed
Concern: State the issue clearly, respectfully, and with the “why” behind it
Closing: Finish with a statement and a question to confirm alignment
This framework helps you stay organized, calm, and effective, no matter how uncomfortable the topic may be.
Key Learnings
Structure makes difficult conversations less stressful and more productive.
Appreciation (Greeting) and partnership (Groundwork) reduce defensiveness.
Clear, respectful articulation of your concern keeps the conversation constructive.
Ending with a clarifying question ensures you and the other person walk away aligned.
Writing out the GGCC ahead of time makes a big difference in how you show up.
GGCC will be used again in Episode 3, this time from the Catcher’s perspective.
Takeaways
Difficult conversations aren’t confrontations — they’re opportunities to collaborate.
“Respect” and “clarity” are the two qualities that make the GGCC method work.
Preparing your structure ahead of time prevents misunderstandings.
Tip of the Week
Use the GGCC framework (Greeting, Groundwork, Concern, Closing) to prepare your next difficult conversation.It works for feedback, resource requests, conflict, and team challenges.
FIO – Figure It Out (Call to Action)
This week, identify one difficult conversation you’ve been putting off.Draft your Pitcher’s script using the GGCC structure.
Even if you don’t deliver it right away, having it ready makes you more confident and prepared.
Share your experience inside the Trade Geeks Community:Trade Geeks
Resources Mentioned
This episode focuses solely on the GGCC structure — no external resources.
Credits
Hosts:
Renee Chiuchiarelli
Julie Parks
Producer:
Lalo Solorzano
🎙️ Simply Trade is a podcast by Global Training Center, bringing practical insights to trade and customs professionals worldwide.
Subscribe & Follow
🎙️ New TIPS episodes every Tuesday.
Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
Connect with us:
Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn
Global Training Center on LinkedIn
YouTube
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Trade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!
📩 Want to be on the show or suggest a topic?Email us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com or DM us on X/Twitter @SimplyTradePod

[ROUNDUP] ICPA Creating The Next Generation of Trade

Hosts: Annik Sobing (annik@simplytradepodcast.com | LinkedIn)Guests:
Elisabeth Sherrell, ICPA (International Compliance Professionals Association)Jacob Boggs, Recent Graduate & Trade Compliance ProfessionalProducer: Annik SobingLength: ~28 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center. 
Find GTC Seminars here: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/seminars/
Episode OverviewIn this exciting episode of Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik Sobing welcomes Elisabeth Sherrell from the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) and Jacob Boggs, a young trade compliance professional who recently graduated and is already making waves in the industry.
The conversation centers on breaking into trade compliance as a student or recent graduate, the value of ICPA membership and conferences, and how the next generation of trade professionals is building community and legacy in this field. Elisabeth and Jacob share inspiring stories about overcoming fear, taking the first step, and the importance of networking at industry events.
This episode is a must-listen for students, recent graduates, and anyone considering a career in trade compliance. It's packed with practical advice, encouragement, and real talk about navigating conferences, making connections, and finding your place in the trade compliance community—even if you feel like you don't belong yet.
What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow to break into trade compliance as a student or recent graduateThe benefits of ICPA membership and what to expect at ICPA conferencesPractical tips for attending your first trade conference (what to wear, how to introduce yourself, who to talk to)Why networking isn't as scary as it seems—and how to make meaningful connectionsThe emerging "under 30" trade compliance community and why it mattersHow to leverage LinkedIn and professional associations to build your careerReal stories from Jacob about going to his first conference and connecting with industry leadersWhy showing up is half the battle—and how taking small steps leads to big opportunitiesKey Topics DiscussedBreaking Into Trade ComplianceHow Jacob entered the field and what motivated him to pursue trade complianceThe challenges students and recent graduates face when entering a specialized industryWhy it's important to reach out to people who are slightly ahead of you in their career journeyICPA Conferences & MembershipWhat ICPA offers: conferences, networking, educational sessions, and communityWhy attending conferences is valuable even if you don't know anyoneHow to prepare for a conference and what to expectThe welcoming nature of the trade compliance communityThe Under-30 Trade Compliance MovementThe growing community of young professionals under 30 in trade complianceHow Jacob and others like Jack Chapman are building legacy and communityWhy having peers at similar career stages is valuable for learning and supportPractical Advice for StudentsDon't be terrified—everyone was new onceReach out to people on LinkedIn (like Jacob!) who are in similar positionsAttend conferences even if you feel unprepared—you'll learn by being thereConnect with Jack Chapman and Jacob Boggs for peer mentorship and guidance
Key Quotes from the Episode"If you're terrified and if you're a student, the best way is probably to reach out to someone who is kind of in the same position as you but taking those steps already." — Annik
"And I'm happy to talk to anyone as well." — Jacob Boggs
"There is a group of under 30 trade compliance people that are starting to build. And that's really cool to me. That's, you know, that's legacy and I love it." — Annik
"Trade makes the world go round." — Annik
"Just stay calm, really. That's all we can do." — Annik
Resources MentionedICPA (International Compliance Professionals Association)
Website: ICPA InformationUpcoming conferencesMembership benefits and networking opportunities
Connect with the Guests:
Elisabeth Sherrell - ICPA | LINKEDINJacob Boggs - LinkedIn (available for students and recent grads to connect!)
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Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com
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[Cindy's Version] "The 1" You Should Call

Host: Cindy AllenPublished: December 5, 2025Length: ~12 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center​
Summary
Cindy Allen, CEO of TradeForce Multiplier, delivers Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, linking international trade updates to Taylor Swift's "The One." She covers key developments like Costco's high-profile IEEPA challenge in the Court of International Trade to keep liquidations open amid Supreme Court proceedings, alongside nearly 50 similar filings from other companies including Revlon. The episode emphasizes unpredictability in trade policy under the current administration, urging importers to consult trade attorneys, customs brokers, surety companies, and finance teams for tailored strategies on protests, bonds, and duty liabilities.​
This Week in Trade
Costco leads publicized IEEPA court challenges to preserve liquidation rights as 314-day cycles approach for early fentanyl-related tariffs around December 15.​
US-Korea trade deal caps IEEPA duties at 15%, retroactive to November 14 (autos/parts to November 1), prompting entry refilings and post-summary corrections.​
Proposed CBP form updates (7501, 3461, International Mail Duty Sheet) add fields for aluminum/steel mill/pour details and enhance visibility.​
Section 301 exclusions from China extended beyond expiration; UK medicines, pharma ingredients, and med tech exempt from Section 232 tariffs.​
WiseTech's ABI/AMS pricing shift over Thanksgiving raises costs 10-100%+ via volume-based fees passed to clients, sparking industry backlash.​
Why "The One" Fits
Cindy ties the song's themes of uncertainty ("never know") and choosing reliable advisors to trade's volatility, advising importers to identify "the one" expert per issue: attorneys for legal risks, brokers for filings, sureties for bonds. High China duties (e.g., prior 145% rates) still factor into 12-month bond calculations despite reductions, with IEEPA resolutions potentially years away. Teams must prepare finances for prolonged uncertainty without stacking bond liabilities.​
Key Takeaways
File IEEPA challenges if at risk to avoid liquidation; monitor Court of International Trade dockets.​
Review bonds and refile eligible Korea entries for retroactive relief.​
Consult specialists by topic to navigate unpredictable policies effectively.​
Leverage ACE portal over paper forms for full entry data.​
Resources & Mentions
Global Training Center
TradeForce Multiplier​Credits: Host Cindy Allen (LinkedIn);] Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts; join Trade Geeks Community. New episodes Fridays.​
Credits
Host:• Cindy Allen – LinkedIn• Trade Force Multiplier
Producer:• Annik Sobing 
Subscribe & Follow
New episodes every Friday.
Presented by Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
Connect with us:• Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn• Global Training Center on LinkedIn• YouTube• Spotify• Apple Podcasts• Trade Geeks Community
Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Holiday Classification Madness: Christmas, Costumes & Chapter 95 with Hal Berman

Episode: 403Hosts: Andy Shiles — LinkedIn. & Lalo Solorzano — LinkedIn. (linkedin.com)Guest(s): Hal Berman — LinkedIn. (linkedin.com)Published: November/December 2025Length: ~44 minutesPresented by: Global Training Center
🧾 Festive Classifications: When Is That Ornament Really a “Holiday” Item?
In this holiday special, Andy and Lalo sit down with Hal Berman (TradeInside AI) to unpack the tricky — and often surprising — rules for classifying festive and holiday goods under the HTSUS. Hal walks us through the three-part “festive article” test used by Customs: (1) used to celebrate a holiday, (2) recognizably unique to that holiday, and (3) not usable for a non-holiday purpose. We discuss everything from ugly Christmas sweaters and branded promotional mugs to Halloween costumes, tamales, tote bags, toy ornaments, and novelty items like frozen-turkey-bowling (yes, really). The episode also covers practical steps importers and compliance teams should take to avoid costly mis-classifications and how AI is already helping speed up large SKU reviews — while reminding listeners that 10-digit HTS validation still needs a human-in-the-loop.
🗝️ Key Takeaways
Three-part test for 9505 (festive articles): celebration use + recognizable holiday motif + non-utilitarian.
Chapter 95 items can enjoy unconditional duty-free treatment when they meet the test — a major cost difference vs. usual tariffs.
Not everything with a holiday motif is 9505 — jewelry, mugs, durable tote bags, and many toys are classified elsewhere under regular headings (and GRI-1 applies).
AI helps scale reviews (flag likely festive vs. non-festive) but human review remains required when filing and for 10-digit HTS submission.
Practical advice: build a robust classification workflow, document intended use, and be conservative when descriptions are ambiguous.
Refunds / litigation note: discussion about ongoing litigation and refund strategies (e.g., Costco case) — watch for rulings and plan for data-level readiness.
🎯 Resources & Mentions
(embedded links for quick access)
TradeInsight AI — Hal’s company / classification resource.
Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) — primary tariff schedule & search. (Harmonized Tariff Schedule)https://hts.usitc.gov/
Global Training Center
CBP / Rulings / Classification guidance — useful for checking rulings and prior decisions.https://www.cbp.gov/
Example case references & historical notes on festive classification (referenced in ep): judicial and CIT rulings, and WCO explanatory notes (see HTS/CIT rulings and customs rulings database).https://rulings.cbp.gov/
(Optional) Want to dig deeper into classification law? USITC HTS info and HTS user guides are very helpful. (USITC)
📌 Credits
Hosts: Andy Shiles — LinkedIn. (linkedin.com)Lalo Solorzano — LinkedIn. (linkedin.com)
Guest: Hal Berman — LinkedIn. (linkedin.com)
Produced by: Global Training Center
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Trade Geeks Community

[NCBFAA] Customs Committee Year in Review

Episode:
NCBFAA Customs Committee Spotlight: 2025 Challenges, 2026 Opportunities & The Power of Community
Host:
Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s):
Sandra (Sandy) Coty — Customs Committee Co-Chair
LinkedIn
Mary Jo Muoio — Chair Emeritus
LinkedIn
Ralph De La Rosa — Customs Committee Co-Chair
LinkedIn
Lenny Feldman — Customs Committee Counsel
LinkedIn
Published:
December 3, 2025
Length:
Approx. 44 min.
Presented by:
Global Training Center — Website
Episode Summary
In this special collaborative episode with the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA), Simply Trade highlights one of the organization’s most active and influential groups: the Customs Committee.
Host Lalo Solorzano is joined by committee co-chairs Sandy Coty and Ralph De La Rosa, alongside Mary Jo Muoio (Chair Emeritus) and counsel Lenny Feldman. Together, they unpack a highly dynamic 2025 driven by court cases, tariff unpredictability, modernization initiatives, and the ever-increasing complexity of trade policy.
This episode reveals what the Customs Committee does, how it supports the entire brokerage community, and why their work is essential for businesses of all sizes. From interpreting executive orders, to producing toolkits, to being the “eye of the storm” during regulatory upheaval — this group ensures brokers stay informed, compliant, and ready for whatever comes next.
The guests also look ahead to 2026, sharing expectations around tariff changes, new trade “deals,” evolving technology, and the crucial role of customs brokers as the industry continues to transform.
Key Learnings & Themes
1. What the Customs Committee Actually Does
The committee’s primary mission is to provide clarity for NCBFAA members on anything related to CBP, trade policy, or customs requirements. This includes:
Webinars, toolkits, and e-briefings
Monday morning updates (now almost daily due to rapid change)
Direct member support for complex questions
Coordinated outreach to CBP, Treasury, USTR, and other agencies
Flowcharts, FAQs, and practical guides to help brokers execute requirements accurately
The group acts as a force multiplier, ensuring that one broker’s question becomes clarity for all.
2. Wins and Progress in 2025
Sandy highlights several “first downs” toward long-sought industry improvements:
Revenue modernization progress tied to the federal executive order
Duty payment flexibility, including paying duties at any port in certain situations
10-day extensions for trade remedy-related entry rejections
Improved ACE reports, including inbound, AD/CVD certifications, and low-hanging but highly useful enhancements
Ralph notes additional recognition for NCBFAA this year:
Sandy and another committee member were appointed to COAC
CBP is increasingly seeking NCBFAA’s input due to the committee’s credibility and expertise
3. Guidance During Turbulent Policy Shifts
Mary Jo emphasizes the committee’s role as a stabilizing force:
They provide institutional knowledge during times that feel overwhelming
They help members understand complex topics like tariff stacking, enforcement spikes, and Supreme Court review scenarios
They translate shifting rules into actionable guidance
They ensure that small brokers have the same insight as large brokers
The committee helps the industry “act like we’ve been here before,” even when the environment is unprecedented.
4. Tariffs, IEEPA, and the Supreme Court Case
Lenny breaks down what’s at stake:
Whether Section 301/IEEPA tariffs remain valid
Whether tariff authority is properly delegated
Whether changes will apply prospectively or retroactively
How brokers should handle refunds, protests, or revenue collection depending on outcomes
His analogy:It all comes down to donuts, duties, and delegation — and whether tariffs are a “donut hole” in the statute or “a different kind of pastry.”
Regardless of the ruling, the committee will deliver:
Updated tools
New flowcharts
Best-practice guidance
Member education sessions
5. Small Brokers Gain Big-Broker Capabilities
A recurring theme: NCBFAA levels the playing field.
Ralph shares examples:
The AD/CVD certification toolkit
Harp/Nice Harmonized Tariff Schedule sequencing toolkit
Penalty and liquidated damages working groups
Center of Excellence and Expertise outreach calls
Direct lines of communication to CBP
A small broker becomes instantly connected to subject-matter experts, best practices, and national discussions — a major competitive advantage.
6. Looking Ahead to 2026
Panelists expect:
New forms of tariff collection
Faster, deal-based trade agreements
Increased use of AI and machine learning in compliance and enforcement
More de minimis-related shifts into formal/informal entry channels
Technology-driven expectations for brokers
Greater pressure on revenue collection
Higher need for accurate guidance, FAQs, and toolkits
The brokerage role continues evolving — from “customs house broker” to customs concierge.
Takeaways for Listeners
NCBFAA’s Customs Committee is an unmatched resource for practical, real-world customs compliance guidance.
Even small brokers gain expert-level insight and decision support by being part of the community.
The association provides stability during rapid regulatory change.
The industry will continue evolving quickly — and NCBFAA helps members stay ahead, not behind.
Involvement (even at the local level) returns far more value than it requires.
Brokers, attorneys, carriers, and service providers all benefit from engagement.
Resources Mentioned
All references below include embedded official links.
NCBFAA & Community
NCBFAA — ncbfaa.org
NCBFAA Customs Committee — via membership resources
COAC (CBP Advisory Committee) — CBP COAC Page
U.S. Agencies
U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) — cbp.gov
U.S. Treasury Department — home.treasury.gov
U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) — ustr.gov
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) — dhs.gov
Department of Commerce — commerce.gov
Regulations / Programs / Topics
IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) — Congress.gov Overview
Section 301 / Trade Remedies — USTR 301 Overview
Tariff Schedules (HTSUS) — HTS Search
ACE Reporting — CBP ACE Portal
AD/CVD (Antidumping & Countervailing Duties) — CBP AD/CVD Info
De Minimis / Section 321 — CBP Section 321
Federal Register Notices — federalregister.gov
Technology & Enforcement
Forced Labor Enforcement — CBP Forced Labor
AI in Trade Modernization — CBP Innovation Initiatives via CBP Trade Newsroom
Credits
Host:Lalo Solorzano — Global Training Center
Guests:
Sandra (Sandy) Coty — LinkedIn
Mary Jo Muoio — LinkedIn
Ralph De La Rosa — LinkedIn
Lenny Feldman — LinkedIn
Presented by:Global Training Center — WebsiteGlobal Training Center LinkedIn — Follow
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