Simply Trade

[Cindy's Version]: Cruel Summer

🔥 Cruel Summer in Trade — And We’re Only Getting Started
Host: Cindy AllenPublished: August 8, 2025Length: ~15 minutesPresented by: Global Training CenterThis summer isn’t just hot — it’s brutal for global trade professionals.
In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen (aka the Taylor Swift of Trade) breaks down a whirlwind week of policy shifts, tariff impacts, and looming uncertainty for manufacturers, importers, and customs brokers alike. With over 90 countries now hit with new tariffs and talk of component-level origin requirements on the horizon, Cindy says what everyone else is only thinking.
And yes — this episode is inspired by the song “Cruel Summer”... because in trade, it really is.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Over 90 Countries Hit with Reciprocal Tariffs: What it means for brokers, importers & the EU
Tariff Complexity for the EU: New 15% cap rules and confusing duty math
Pharma in the Crosshairs: Why a 50% duty on India could skyrocket drug prices
Component-Level Origin Rules: Is “substantial transformation” no longer enough?
CBP’s New Tech Stack: How ACE is evolving with bolt-on analytics tools
China Trade Stats: Still strong despite de minimis changes
Manufacturing Indexes Are Falling: But Wall Street’s rising — why the disconnect?
Key Takeaways:
Customs brokers are overwhelmed by complex EU tariff calculations — and ACE isn’t helping.
Semiconductors & pharma products may face rising tariffs unless domestic manufacturing exists.
India’s 50% tariff rate on pharma could trigger serious price increases in generics.
CBP’s new tech partnerships with Altana and Dun & Bradstreet mark a shift toward entity-level enforcement.
Transshipment scrutiny is tightening: Substantial transformation may no longer be enough if component-level thresholds are imposed.
China remains resilient in U.S. trade — for now.
About the Host – Cindy Allen
Known as the “Taylor Swift of Trade,” Cindy Allen brings clarity, edge, and insight to the week’s most pressing trade developments. With decades of experience, she helps industry professionals make sense of the chaos — with a little pop culture flair.  Follow Cindy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/
Resources & Mentions:
NCBFAA guidance on EU tariff transmission
Statements from CBP and White House trade officials
Preliminary trade stats: U.S.-China trade (August 2025)
Manufacturing index data reports (July–August 2025)
Subscribe & Follow:
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Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions?
Reach us at SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.comor DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod

[CAREERS]: From Taxis to Trade Law - Frank Desiderio's Career Journey

Frank Desiderio, a founding partner at GDLSK, shared his journey from Brooklyn to becoming a trade attorney. Initially aspiring to be a cowboy, he discovered his aptitude for law during high school. After a summer with a prestigious civil engineering firm, he decided to pursue law for financial reasons. Desiderio excelled at St. John's University Law School and was recruited by the Justice Department. He later founded GDLSK, handling customs and trade law. Desiderio emphasized the importance of mentorship, adaptability, and persistence, sharing anecdotes about his early career and the evolving landscape of trade law. 
 
Connect with Frank: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankdesideriocustomsatty/ 
 
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬ 
 Recommended Resources: Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎 
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/   
👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast: - Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g 
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/ 
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com 
 
Credits: 
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ 
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/ 
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/

[Events] A Look Ahead to The ICPA 2025 Fall European Conference

The upcoming ICPA 2025 Fall European Conference takes place in Brussels from September 8-10. The event features a one-track format with:- extended sessions and panels
-focusing on classification
-valuation, origin, and ESG
-sanctions and export controlRegistration is nearing capacity, with only 25 seats left. The conference aims to foster cross-national discussions and networking, emphasizing the importance of understanding trade measures from diverse perspectives.
Key speakers include:
- Elisabeth Sherrell
- Kolja Mendel
- Jenna Glass
- Lori Shaw
Virtual attendance options are available.

[Roundup] 3 Pillars to survive tariff changes starting August 1st

In this critical episode of Simply Trade Roundup, international trade expert Luis Arandia breaks down the complex tariff changes affecting businesses on August 1st. Learn about new duties on copper, Canada tariff adjustments, and upcoming de minimis treatment suspensions that could dramatically impact your import strategies. Key Discussion Points:
50% tariffs on copper imports
Canada tariff increases from 25% to 35%
Transshipment challenges and penalties
Elimination of duty-free de minimis treatment
Critical strategies for trade complianceGuest Contact: Luis Arandia International Trade Partner Barnes and Thornburg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisarandia 
Luis reveals the three essential pillars for navigating these changes: classification, origin, and valuation. Whether you're dealing with copper products, Canadian imports, or international shipments, this episode provides crucial insights for staying compliant and minimizing financial risks. 🔑 WANT TO MASTER THE 3 PILLARS OF IMPORTING?Luis emphasizes understanding classification, origin, and valuation. Our comprehensive course bundle at Global Training Center will equip you with the exact skills needed to navigate today's complex trade landscape! 👉 Visit https://globaltrainingcenter.com/3-pillars-of-import-compliance/ 👉 Enroll in our 3 Pillars Bundle 👉 Become a trade compliance expert
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out our OnDemand Library at GTC! 👀🌎
📺⏰ Learn your own pace wit OnDemand: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/elearning-classes/  👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ 

[Cindy's Version]: Blank Space

It’s official — Cindy Allen is flying solo! In this debut episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, the internationally respected trade expert (often dubbed the “Taylor Swift of Trade”) dives headfirst into the latest tariff actions, geopolitical shake-ups, and economic indicators that every global trader needs to know.
Cindy brings you real-time insights, straight talk, and a dose of personality that only she can deliver — all wrapped in a fast, focused 20-minute briefing.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Breaking Down the New Reciprocal Tariffs: Who’s hit and why (Canada, Brazil, China, and more)
The Real Impact on U.S. Companies: From Ford’s $800M hit to disappearing profit margins
How Price Hikes and Uncertainty Are Shaking Economic Forecasts
Domestic Manufacturing & Supply Chain Shifts: Is reshoring happening or just diversifying?
The End of De Minimis?: What the August 29 Executive Order means for importers, brokers, and CBP
Copper 232 Duties: Why the carve-outs matter for U.S. manufacturers
CBP Organizational Changes: What’s happening inside the Office of Field Operations and Office of Trade
Key Takeaways:
More than half of U.S.-based companies affected by trade have cut or withdrawn guidance due to volatility.
Fentanyl-related tariffs raise questions about the effectiveness of politically motivated trade actions.
The end of Type 86 entries will transform how low-value shipments are processed — major change ahead.
Companies are not necessarily reshoring — many are seeking alternative low-tariff markets instead.
A sharp uptick in consumer pricing may be felt in late summer as new tariffs take hold.
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎
📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/ 
😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/ 
🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host: Cindy Allen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-allen-a3188210/ 
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/

AI Hallucinates, Trade Doesn't: How CATTS Founders Turn Data Chaos into Compliance Clarity

 Peter and Nick Bolters, founders of CATTS, discuss the evolution from paper-based trade to digital systems, emphasizing the need for technology to keep up with changing regulations. They highlight the importance of understanding data context and the challenges of integrating disparate systems. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in trade compliance, the potential of blockchain, and the increasing responsibility of traders in ensuring accurate declarations. The episode concludes with a focus on the importance of international partnerships between trade and authorities.
Key Points of the Simply Trade Podcast Episode with CATTS Founders:
1. Transition from paper-based to digital documentation
2. Challenges of generic AI tools in trade classification
3. Growing alignment between international customs authorities
4. E-commerce and Future Trade Challenges
5. Key Compliance StrategiesContact the experts featured: https://catts.eu/about-us/contact/ 
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎
📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/ 
😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/ 
🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/

[Canada] How the Port of Montreal Keeps Canada's Trade Waves Riding High

Join Warrington Ellacott as he sits down with Julie Gascon, President and CEO of the Port of Montreal, to explore Canada's maritime trade powerhouse. Learn how the Port of Montreal drives economic growth, supports 600,000 jobs, and plays a critical role in trade diversification. Learn about the groundbreaking Contrecoeur terminal expansion, the port's technological innovations, and strategic plans to connect Canadian exports with global markets. From maritime history to future trade opportunities, this conversation offers an insider's view of Canada's second-largest port and its pivotal role in international commerce.Julie Gascon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-gascon/ Warrington Ellacott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warringtonellacott/ 
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎
📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/ 
😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/ 
🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/

[ROUNDUP] Make Trade Boring Again: Tariffs, Tech Tools, and Transparency

'Make Trade Boring Again' might just be the sanity check the global trade landscape desperately needs.The original hosts, Annik, Andy, and Lalo, reunite to dissect the latest trade challenges, including:
- The impact of rising #tariffs on global trade... so far.- Surprising insights into how importers are absorbing new trade costs- A candid look at US-international trade relationships- Emerging #AI tools transforming trade #compliance- The importance of maintaining business relationships amid political uncertainty
Highlights include:- Debunking the "Chicken Little" approach to trade panic- Exploring opportunities in a changing global market- Sneak peek at upcoming trade collaborations- A humorous take on the current trade environment
Whether you're a trade professional or simply curious about global commerce, this roundup offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on today's complex trade ecosystem. Time to tune in,#TradeProfessionals 
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎
📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/ 
😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/ 
🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/ 
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod 
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ 
Host: Andy Shiles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyshiles/

Trade Chaos Is Now a Feature, Not a Bug - with Lila Landis

As global tensions rise and regulations shift like sand, how can businesses survive, let alone; thrive? Trade compliance expert Lila Landis pulls back the curtain on the most unpredictable trade environment in recent history.
 
In this must-listen episode, Lila reveals:- Why your current trade strategy might be obsolete overnight- How a single tweet can trigger massive supply chain disruptions- Insider strategies for navigating 38-digit tariff codes and complex regulations- Why "wait and see" is the worst possible approach for your business
 
BONUS: 
In today’s unpredictable trade environment, compliance isn’t just a safeguard—it’s a strategic advantage. Learn how to take control from someone who’s done it at the highest levels.
⁠The Developing a Trade Compliance Program Hybrid Course is taught by Lila Landis, a seasoned trade compliance leader with global experience. Drawing from CBP, BIS, and DDTC guidance, as well as her own playbook, Lila teaches you how to build and strengthen a practical, risk-based import/export compliance program tailored to your organization.
Perfect for new Trade Compliance Managers and professionals in customs, logistics, and global trade, this 4-week course includes:
✅ Expert-led live webinars with Lila✅ Practical steps to build a global compliance framework✅ Pitfalls to avoid and best practices to follow✅ Certificate of Completion + Digital Trade Badge
🗓 Starts September 8, 2025👀Register now! -> https://globaltrainingcenter.com/developing-a-trade-compliance-program/
If you enjoyed the podcast episode, don’t miss this opportunity to go deeper with Lila and strengthen your organization’s trade foundation.

[Round Up] Intervention with your Trade Therapist - Benita Lee

Ever wondered what a "Trade Therapist" does? Join Annik Sobing and guest, Benita Lee, as she unveils her revolutionary trade compliance diagnostic tool that's helping companies nationwide identify their hidden trade vulnerabilities. In this episode of Simply Trade, discover how one simple PDF can transform your company's approach to global trade challenges. Contact Benita Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benitalee1/ Key Features:
Exclusive Trade Compliance Diagnostic Framework
Executive-level insights into trade readiness
Cross-functional assessment strategies
Free tool to identify organizational gaps ⏬https://www.linkedin.com/posts/benitalee1_21st-century-trade-compliance-framework-activity-7336406517459390464-NvX9?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAADCPVWABZK0QeH0y6-M5kT_UiWpFa-KzoPE 
What You'll Learn:
How to conduct a comprehensive trade compliance "health check"
Why one document can bring entire organizations together
Strategies for navigating current trade uncertainties
Practical advice from a 25-year global trade expert
Perfect for:
Small business owners
Trade compliance professionals
Supply chain managers
Entrepreneurs navigating international markets
Think of it as a "trade physical" for your business - diagnosing potential issues before they become critical problems. Your prescription? Strategic insights, calm approach, and proactive planning. Don't miss this game-changing episode that turns trade compliance from a headache into a strategic advantage! #TradeCompliance #GlobalTrade #BusinessStrategy #SmallBusinessTips
In the midst of all this chaos, education is your best ally. Access Exclusive Resources Here ⏬
Recommended Resources:
Check out these courses we offer here at GTC! 👀🌎
📩Importing https://globaltrainingcenter.com/importing-procedures/ 
😵‍💫Tariff Classification https://globaltrainingcenter.com/tariff-classification/ 
🗺️Country of Origin https://globaltrainingcenter.com/country-of-origin/ 👓🧠Surround yourself with other trade professionals: Join our Trade Geeks Community!  https://globaltrainingcenter.com/trade-geeks/ 
 
Connect with Simply Trade Podcast:
- Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdmyGU5foKm4aFlpo7Oms4g
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/simply-trade-podcast/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SimplyTradePod
- Website: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/simply-trade-podcast/
 
Contact Us/ Suggest Topics
Contact: SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com
 
Credits:
Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/
Co-Producer/Editor: Mara Marquez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maramarquez85/
Host: Annik Sobing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/