International Trade Resources Podcast

In this engaging talk, Patricia Leebove, an expert in operations and IT with extensive experience in process improvement, shares her insights on enhancing efficiency in global organizations. She highlights the value of both small, impactful changes and large projects, emphasizing that the size doesn’t dictate success. Patricia discusses the critical role of lean principles, cross-functional alignment, and local cultural nuances. She also delves into the intersection of IT and business, advocating for empathetic, data-driven solutions that truly resonate with users.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Ervis Micukaj, owner and general manager of Jet IT in Shanghai, about the practical realities of cloud backup, data security, and compliance for international companies— especially those operating in China and the broader APAC region. Ervis explains why backing up data and keeping it secure aren’t opposing goals but parts of the same strategy, and why companies need local expertise that understands both global cloud options and regional regulations.The conversation demystifies what “the cloud” actually means and lays out the three common deployment models while stressing the single most important control point: who holds the encryption keys. Ervis breaks down a set of simple, practical safeguards: encrypt data at the source, keep full control of your own keys, apply Zero Trust principles, and build both local and redundant backups to ensure you meet performance and compliance requirements when operating across borders.Kim and Ervis also map the regulatory landscape that affects backup decisions: China’s cybersecurity and data security requirements, Europe’s GDPR, and U.S. industry-specific rules. Rather than viewing compliance as a burden, Ervis reframes it as a quality framework that drives better practices and builds trust with regulators and partners. Tune in now and get the download on Cloud Backup and the future of AI-driven models!Key takeawaysBackup and security are complementary.Know your cloud models: public, private, and hybrid each have trade-offs.The 3–2–1 ruleCompliance varies by region: compliance strengthens resilience and trust.Prepare for the future: AI governance is the next big security conversation. Episode Sponsors:If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs.  LINK:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendallAcclime China:https://china.acclime.com/Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.Website: www.intltraderesources.com Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall sits down with Ann Shipherd, owner of A.C. Ship Global Trade Law and a seasoned consultant with extensive experience in customs brokerage and trade compliance. Together, they tackle one of the most pressing and confusing issues in international trade today: understanding tariff announcements.When headlines announce a new tariff or policy shift, where can importers and trade professionals turn to separate fact from speculation? Ann walks us through a step-by-step process for finding accurate, up-to-date information - starting with presidential executive orders, then moving through CBP’s Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS), the Federal Register, and beyond. She also emphasizes the practical role of customs brokers and industry colleagues in interpreting rapidly changing guidance.The conversation dives deep into tariff stacking, the challenges of conflicting or delayed announcements, and the growing reliance on tools like ACE to verify the real-world application of tariffs. Ann and Kim highlight the importance of industry collaboration, CBP rulings, and staying proactive in a landscape where regulations shift quickly and sometimes retroactively.If you’ve ever wondered how to make sense of tariff updates—or how to protect your company from unexpected costs—this episode is packed with insights and practical strategies.Key Takeaways:Where to find the most reliable sources of tariff information (executive orders, CSMS, Federal Register, ACE).Why your customs broker should be your first call when announcements are made.How to use CBP rulings and industry associations to clarify uncertainties.What tariff stacking is and why it complicates landed cost calculations.The risks of delayed duty bills and why trade professionals must stay vigilant.Tools like newsletters, websites, and LinkedIn can help professionals stay up to date on rapidly changing trade issues.Storytelling is a powerful tool in influencing policymakers—companies that speak up can shape the future of trade. Episode Sponsors:If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs.  LINK:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendallAcclime China:https://china.acclime.com/Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.Website: www.intltraderesources.com Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

Ed Brzytwa, Vice President of International Trade at the Consumer Technology Association, offers valuable insights on the role of trade associations in shaping trade policy. He highlights how these associations empower businesses, especially small ones, by providing access to policymakers and essential advocacy tools. The conversation uncovers the impact of personal stories in influencing decisions and the necessity of member engagement for successful advocacy. Brzytwa also shares tips on leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and embracing AI to stay updated and enhance productivity in a rapidly changing trade landscape.

Ying Lu, founder of Blue Lake Packaging and former global operations leader at Apple, shares her innovative approach to packaging. She emphasizes the often-overlooked potential for cost reduction and sustainability. Learn about the three guiding principles her team employs to streamline packaging and navigate tariffs. Ying discusses real-world examples like replacing instruction booklets with QR codes and why a visit to a recycling facility can change your product launch strategy. Explore how small design changes can lead to significant savings and eco-friendly solutions.

Nathan Reed, a licensed customs broker and Director of Customs and Foreign Trade, shares his expertise in navigating the complexities of international trade. He highlights the essential roles of customs brokers in ensuring compliance, handling documentation, and mitigating duties. Nathan offers valuable advice on how companies can make the most of their customs broker partnerships by leveraging their knowledge on import regulations. The discussion also covers tips for selecting the right customs broker and the importance of accurate documentation in trade.

Catherine Reed, an international marketing consultant based in Vienna and a lecturer on business, joins to share her expertise on negotiating import duties and tariffs. She highlights the importance of transparent communication and building strong partnerships with distributors. They discuss innovative strategies like creating a 'Tariff Impact' spreadsheet and leveraging cooperative planning to turn challenges into opportunities. The conversation also explores flexibility in pricing agreements amid market volatility and the significance of scenario planning for long-term success.

Emmet McGovern is a customs brokerage manager at Siva Logistics, bringing eight years of trade compliance expertise. He discusses the vital role of the Importer of Record, emphasizing how legal responsibility lies with them for declarations and duties. Emmet outlines the importance of accurate documentation to avoid costly penalties and highlights real-world examples of tariff evasion. He also offers best practices for audit preparedness and transforming compliance into a competitive edge, ensuring that importers navigate international trade complexities effectively.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with Diego Montemayor, a seasoned trade compliance expert with over 15 years of global market experience. They dive deep into the sometimes confusing world of country of origin determination—especially when components are sourced, partially assembled, and finished across multiple jurisdictions. Diego lays out the fundamental tests U.S. Customs relies on, from the “substantial transformation” standard to the complementary value‑based analysis, helping listeners understand when and how a product’s origin truly changes ​.Together, Kim and Diego unpack real‑world scenarios—like a 3D scanner whose electronic modules come from China but undergo welding, software installation, and housing assembly in Mexico—to illustrate how technical complexity and percentage‑of‑value calculations interplay in a COO decision. They also explore landmark rulings, including a flashlight case where pre‑configured components failed the transformation test, and the Harley‑Davidson EU dispute over tariff‑avoidance motives.Wrapping up, Diego shares best practices for shoring up your COO position: from assembling detailed bills of materials and process documentation, to performing rigorous value‑add analyses and seeking advance customs rulings when in doubt. He warns of common pitfalls—over‑reliance on supplier claims, insufficient paperwork, and jurisdictional nuances—that can leave companies exposed to enforcement actions and unexpected duties​.Key TakeawaysBegin every COO assessment with the substantial‑transformation test; escalate to value‑based analysis when complexity or ambiguity arisesMaintain a “COO file” with bills of materials, processing step descriptions (e.g., welding, software installation), supplier invoices, and logical rationalConduct supplier due diligence and consider binding rulings to lock in your origin position and demonstrate “reasonable care” to customs authorities ​Episode Sponsors:If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee  - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs.  LINK:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendallAcclime China:https://china.acclime.com/Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.Website: www.intltraderesources.com Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.

In this episode of the International Trade Resource Podcast, host Kim Kirkendall chats with international trade expert Alejandro Alcalde as they dive into additional valuation strategies and explore fresh opportunities amid an ever-evolving tariff.Their conversation builds on prior discussions about first sale valuation and takes a deep dive into other options, including the use of free trade zones and bonded warehouses. Listeners will gain insights into how strategically delaying the import process by utilizing these zones can offer relief from duty and tax obligations—at least temporarily—as companies navigate unpredictable tariff fluctuations.In addition, Kim and Alejandro unravel the nuances of special customs provisions, particularly under chapter 98 of the U.S. tariff schedule. They discuss how various scenarios, such as the handling of returned goods, repair and alteration processes, and even the strategic use of U.S. goods assembled abroad, can be leveraged to reduce costs and optimize operational flows. Kim and Alejandro also emphasize the critical importance of detailed documentation, robust traceability systems, and close coordination with customs brokers to ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations. Tune in to learn how these advanced valuation strategies can help companies better manage risk and optimize their international trade operations.Key takeaways:The benefits and strategic considerations of using free trade zones and bonded warehouses to delay duty and tax payments.An overview of special customs provisions under chapter 98, including processes for returned goods and repair/alteration scenarios.Insights into the complexities of U.S. goods assembled abroad and the importance of maintaining country-of-origin status through proper documentation and operational planning.Practical advice on ensuring traceability and aligning with compliance requirements in a volatile tariff environment.Episode Sponsors: If you liked this episode - Buy Me a Coffee  - it’s a great way to help us cover the out of pocket costs.  LINK:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kimkirkendallAcclime China:https://china.acclime.com/Corporate Services and full Accounting/CPA/Tax for China.Website: www.intltraderesources.com Email: intltradepodcast@gmail.com Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or commercial advice. We provide no guarantee for the accuracy of the information provided. Reproduction or transmission of this podcast is strictly prohibited.