International Trade Resources Podcast

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Olivier Brusle, CEO of ACTIOM, a professional services firm, to discuss some of the challenges companies have getting paid regarding export sales. Olivier has over 35 years of industry, entrepreneurship, and consulting experience and is an expert in optimizing commercial transitions and B2B Sales. First Olivier discusses some of the key reasons for payment delays in international trade - starting with delivery issues such as logistics delays, customs clearance problems, and packaging issues. Another common reason payments are delayed is administrative challenges arising from the complex process of international trade. Kim mentions additional customer-related issues such as fraudulent behavior, the customer’s cash flow problems, or disputes over product quality and more as factors in payment delay.To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to take steps in advance of the sale. Amongst other things, Olivier mentions your company should conduct credit risk assessments to identify secure funding options along with other steps to take early in the transaction process. Kim and Olivier discuss what companies should include in their sale contracts, listing quite a few ideas to help safeguard against these risks.Next, Olivier dives into common trade instruments like letters of credit and documentary collections. Credit insurance can cover risks not typically addressed by other instruments, such as bankruptcy or political risks. Additionally, Kim and Olivier talk about considering supply chain finance and factoring, which can help address cash flow issues and ensure timely payments.Lastly, Olivier and Kim break down the importance of understanding and ensuring clarity on the buyer’s internal payment processes and requirements that can help avoid delays. They describe how open discussions with buyers can foster trust and collaboration. With a highlight being how to identify the customers ongoing supply chain receipts (listen for this nugget). Olivier also mentions other measures to safeguard the goods to further secure payments and mitigate risks.Listen now and learn about the importance of preparation, leveraging financial instruments, utilizing technology, and maintaining clear communication to ensure successful international trade transactions.KEY TAKEAWAYS:How payment delays can arise from many factors.How to identify risks and draft contracts to limit payment problems.How to develop open discussions with buyers about payment processes and their ongoing supply chain and receipts of funds. 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Alejandro Alcalde to discuss the recent impact supply chain disruption, politics, and tariffs have had on trade between Mexico with the US and Canada. Alejandro is a trade compliance professional who is also currently studying for his trade lawyer diploma and consecutively attending the Mexico Trade and Law College in California, Mexico to get a degree in international business and customs law. Americans like to call USMCA the “new NAFTA” because it replaced NAFTA. What has changed?  Companies are keen to understand its impact on compliance for international trade. In this episode we will discuss these changes and other factors over the last few years that are catching companies off guard. First, Kim and Alejandro discuss Country of Origin or COO and how that has become a major focus for imports from Mexico.  Why? As companies shift production from China to Mexico, and in some cases only do final assembly or packing in Mexico that can impact COO.  The rules of country of origin can be applied differently between USMCA and USTR regulations.  In some situations based on value and in others based on substantial transformation - this is critical to understand!   Besides the COO issue Alejandro also talks about how the current president changed the tax system and moved it under the military. Customs is now more robust, and the impact felt by importers & exporters has increased. The Mexican government wanted to exert more control to reduce tax evasion, smuggling, etc.  Finally, Kim and Alejandro outline what steps a company can take to make sure they are compliant so that their shipments cross the border with ease. Best practices include; looking at the product’s BOM, the COO of raw materials / components, confirming the HTS code, and doing all this planning in advance of production.   Learn all this and more in this information-packed episode!  Things you’ll learn Why defining the country of origin is important and how this is applied under different regulations / agencies like the USTR and USMCA. What are the changes with the implementation of USMCA and under the current President of Mexico - and how are they felt in cross border trade.Best practices to make sure your company understands and can comply with regulations so that shipments cross the border with ease.  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/kimkirkendall Acclime 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Art Dicker, a senior counsel at R&P China Lawyers and host of the Asia Business Podcast, to discuss expanding into the South East Asian emerging supply base, comparing countries like Vietnam and Indonesia with China. To begin, Art and Kim talk about some of the concerns around Supplier management and how that differs between SE Asia and China. One theme that reoccurs in this podcast is how China has a built-out infrastructure - not only physical infrastructure but in the services companies rely on to manage suppliers, customers and subsidiaries. They talk about some of the challenges of managing suppliers in SE Asia, including inspections, qualification, and more.  Another major issue both Kim and Art often speak about is the importance of Supplier Agreements - and here they talk about the different legal environments in SE Asia that can cause you to modify your standard agreement to fit that country.  Wrapping up the issues with suppliers we talk about payments, how currency controls affect some countries and not others, how import / export taxes can impact the transaction, etc. Switching gears to subsidiaries, Art talks about finding a corporate director when setting up a company in Vietnam, which is similar to the process in China.  How some countries still require local ownership or locals in key positions.  Indonesia also imposes higher capital requirements and employs a risk-based system for industry categorization. Like China, regulatory environments in Vietnam and Indonesia often favor local companies, in certain sectors.Of course they talk about repatriating funds - always an issue - and Kim reminds listeners it’s important to plan for this before incorporation highlighting the need for careful planning from the outset. Both Kim and Art also touch on the crucial nature of compliance with US regulations concerning trade and forced labor, especially for companies operating in countries like Vietnam and Malaysia. The US government closely monitors supply chains for transshipment and COO (Country of Origin determination).Lastly, Kim and Art discuss leveraging experience from China. Companies experienced in navigating China's regulatory landscape may find themselves somewhat familiar with the challenges posed by other emerging markets. Drawing on this experience can be invaluable when expanding operations.Listen now and start exploring the similarities between SE Asia and China manufacturing!KEY TAKEAWAYS:SE Asia offers significant growth potential for international businesses, but not without challenges.Navigating regulatory landscapes, favoritism towards local companies, and capital repatriation complexities require careful planning.Adhering to US regulations regarding trade and forced labor is essential, as scrutiny extends to supply chains in emerging markets.Success in these markets requires proactive planning, comprehensive supply chain mapping, 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Gabriel Santos, a foreign trade leader with Polarium in Guadalajara, to discuss the application of Lean Six Sigma principles in the field of international trade.To begin, Gabriel discusses the reasons for pursuing Lean Six Sigma certification, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in the field of international trade. Gabriel goes on to identify some of the key areas, such as customs clearance processes and internal team development, that can benefit from Lean Six Sigma methodologies.Next we examine specific methodologies, such as Gemba analysis, for identifying process gaps in customs clearance to illustrate how Lean Six Sigma can be applied in international trade.  Kim talks about how procedures and forms are too often seen as cumbersome, but are best used to drive behavior. Lastly, Gabriel summarizes some of the main benefits of applying Lean Six Sigma in trade management, including cost-effectiveness, efficiency, increased compliance, and reduced errors. Gabriel also provides recommendations for self-education on Lean Six Sigma, and Kim reminds listeners they don’t need a certificate to apply the theories to their business.Listen now and start exploring Lean Six Sigma in International Trade today! KEY TAKEAWAYS:How Lean Six Sigma can be applied in international trade. The benefits of applying Lean Six Sigma in trade management Recommendations for applying Lean, even without trainingEpisode 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Sin Kit I (Sinki), who has years of experience in business development to lend insight into the opportunities and challenges of international investment in South America and the region's potential for economic growth and investment.To begin, Kim and Sinki discuss growing foreign investment in South America. South America, particularly countries like Colombia where she is based, is experiencing a significant increase in foreign direct investment (FDI). This includes investment from traditional sources like other countries in the region, the United States, the European Union, and lately growing investment from China. However, foreign companies investing in South America face challenges such as corruption, cultural differences, and security concerns. Understanding and navigating these challenges is crucial for successful business operations in the region.Next, Kim and Sinki explore opportunities for growth. Despite challenges, South America offers ample opportunities for growth and investment and the region's young and dynamic workforce, coupled with its natural resources and strategic location, make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand.Lastly, Sinki and Kim look at the rise of near-shoring trends in North and South America. Countries like Colombia and Mexico are becoming attractive options for companies looking to diversify their manufacturing and production locations while staying in the region and on the same time zone. Factors such as economic stability, workforce availability, and strategic location make these countries viable options for near-shoring initiatives.Listen now and start exploring FDI in South America today! KEY TAKEAWAYS:●      Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in South America has experienced significant growth, with countries like Brazil attracting substantial investment. ●      Foreign companies face various challenges when investing in South America,. ●      Understand the opportunities in South America for business growth and investment. 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Andrew Kennedy, Logistics Manager at Kitagawa Europe, to discuss the challenges and strategies to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the post-Brexit trade environment. To begin with in the podcast Kim and Andrew explore changes in customs procedures. With the UK no longer part of the EU, customs declarations and clearance procedures are now required for goods entering the UK from EU countries. This has introduced trade barriers that previously did not exist. They also discuss the implementation of new regulations for non-EU countries in the UK post-Brexit. The UK has introduced its own regulations and standards, such as the UKCA marking, to replace previous EU standards like the CE marking. Additionally, the UK has phased in various regulatory changes post-Brexit, affecting areas like VAT, tariffs, and customs classifications. Next, Andrew and Kim break down how companies need to adjust their exports into the UK and comply with the updated regulations. Effective communication and collaboration with suppliers, customers, and relevant authorities are crucial to navigating these changes successfully. Lastly, given the ongoing evolution of trade regulations, Andrew and Kim discuss how essential it is for businesses to stay informed and continuously monitor changes in regulations. This includes seeking relevant training for staff and engaging with industry experts to ensure compliance and minimize disruptions to their supply chains. Listen now and start exploring the post-Brexit trade environment today! KEY TAKEAWAYS: ●      New customs declarations and clearance procedures in the UK and the new EU/UK trade barriers.●      Regulations and standards, such as the UKCA marking, that have replaced previous EU standards like the CE marking.●      Tips on how to adapt to the new post-Brexit trade landscape. 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/kimkirkendall Acclime 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, our host Kim Kirkendall is joined by Nathan Reed, a licensed customs broker and Director of Customs and Foreign Trade, to discuss the importance of knowledgeable and reliable customs brokers. Navigating the complexities of international trade regulations and customs compliance can be complex, and knowing how to make the most of your relationship with a trusted customs broker can simplify the process!First, Kim and Nathan dive into the functions and responsibilities of customs brokers, which include; transmitting data to ensure import shipments clear customs, communicating with freight forwarders and carriers, calculating duties and taxes. Brokers can also arrange transportation, support HTS determination, record-keep, and support customs audits.Next, Nathan lends advice on how companies should leverage the knowledge of their customs broker partners on import regulations and compliance. The customs brokers have an understanding of product requirements, can provide guidance on record-keeping and compliance, and advise on proper duty and tax application.Lastly, Kim and Nathan explore considerations for companies who are looking to retain a customs broker directly. This includes how to find a good customs broker, the importance of considering service levels, assessing the broker's knowledge and expertise, evaluating value-added services, and ensuring sufficient staffing and support from the broker. Listen now and start exploring ways you can leverage your custom broker’s expertise today!KEY TAKEAWAYS:The often overlooked functions and responsibilities of customs brokersAdvice on how companies should leverage the knowledge of their customs broker partners on import regulations and complianceConsiderations for companies looking to retain a customs broker directlyEpisode 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, Kim Kirkendall is joined by Kenton Grimes to discuss the challenges companies face when negotiating an annual contract with a freight provider. They explore topics such as identifying suitable providers, determining who can offer comprehensive services, and what to have in your freight contract.First, Kim and Kenton emphasize the significance of transparency in freight relationships. They discuss how transparent communication and sharing of information, including bad news, is essential for building strong partnerships and effectively managing international trade. They also delve into the complexities of managing freight contracts during turbulent times - to balance flexibility with cost stability.  They also discuss strategies for structuring contracts that allow for adjustments in response to market fluctuations while ensuring predictability in costs and lead times.Lastly, Kenton emphasizes the importance of viewing freight providers as strategic partners rather than merely transactional entities. He highlighted the value of leveraging data collected by providers, fostering collaboration, and aligning goals to optimize supply chain operations and drive business success. Kim and Kenton collectively provide insight into the challenges, considerations, and strategies involved in selecting freight providers, managing contracts, and maximizing the value of partnerships in international trade. Learn all this and more in this information-packed episode!Things you’ll learn: Challenges when searching for freight providers; identifying suitable providers, understanding their capabilities, and assessing reliability..Strategies for managing freight contracts effectivelyThe significance of viewing freight providers as strategic partners and fostering transparent communication. 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/kimkirkendallEpisode Sponsors:Acclime 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, Kim Kirkendall is joined by Michel Nouafo, who has a wealth of experience in international sales, market development, and channel development positions. They explore diverse topics, including the influence of cultural differences on product choices (such as the significance of colors in different regions), variations in pricing strategies based on context cultures, and the importance of understanding the customer journey in different markets.First, Kim and Michel discuss the importance of adapting products to fit the local market, taking into consideration factors like space constraints in homes, cultural perceptions of waste, and the expectation of freshness in some regions. Additionally, they touch on the impact of warranties and product information on consumer trust, emphasizing the need to align marketing and product strategies with local expectations.Lastly, Kim and Michele highlight the crucial role of the cultural knowledge of the sales organization in international business success. It emphasizes the importance of hiring the right individuals, providing adequate training, and finding a balance between maintaining high standards and adapting to local norms. They suggest a hybrid solution for the sales team, incorporating both local hires and expats to create a bridge between corporate culture and local customs. Learn all this and more in this information-packed episode!Things you’ll learn: The significance of understanding and adapting to cultural differences when engaging in international trade.The necessity of adapting products to fit the local marketThe critical role of cultural knowledge in the sales organization in international business success. 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/kimkirkendallEpisode Sponsors:Acclime 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.

Today on the International Trade Resources Podcast, Kim Kirkendall is joined by two of her team members to discuss mistakes companies make when dealing with suppliers in Asia. This is a behind the scenes discussion with people who have boots-on-the-ground in China and Vietnam. See below - if you liked this episode you can buy us a coffee to say thanks. To begin the podcast, Kim and her team dive into the importance of understanding not only the product but also the broader context of what other products the supplier is involved in and whether similar issues exist in other industrial processes.They also examine the challenges inherent to the relationship between customers and suppliers, especially the conflict between customers seeking low costs and extended payment terms versus suppliers striving to maintain cash flow and quality. They touch upon the limitations of quality control inspectors and the need for a specialized team to identify and rectify issues in the production process.Lastly, Kim and her team lend some advice for customers on being the best partners to their suppliers. This includes giving long-term commitments, clear communication, and timely payments. They stress the significance of a strong relationship with the factory's management and ownership, going beyond dealing only with export sales managers. Successful international trade in Asia relies heavily on building and maintaining effective communication. Listen now and start integrating these customer-supplier best practices into your dealings today. Things you’ll learn: Understanding production problems beyond the obvious issuesChallenges in the customer-supplier dynamicAdvice for building stronger supplier outcomesIf 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/kimkirkendallEpisode Sponsors:Acclime 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.