Simply Trade

Host: Cindy Allen
Published: July 24, 2026
Length: Not provided
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
In this episode of Simply Trade: Cindy’s Version, Cindy Allen returns after a two-week break to unpack one of the most operationally challenging tariff transitions of 2026. Using Taylor Swift’s “Sad, Beautiful, Tragic” as the lens, she explores a trade environment defined by abrupt deadlines, overlapping authorities, and relationships that may be moving beyond their free-trade era.

Cindy explains the transition from the temporary Section 122 duty to new Section 301 tariffs tied to how 60 economies address forced-labor imports. She examines the 10% and 12.5% tariff structures, the treatment of most-favored-nation duties for certain countries, general and country-specific exclusions, Section 232 carve-outs, and the importance of proper tariff stacking. The official action became applicable to most covered entries beginning July 24, 2026.

The episode also looks ahead to Section 338 tariffs on selected Canadian products, continuing IEEPA refund activity, potential court challenges, and the uncertain future of USMCA. For importers, customs brokers, programmers, and trade teams, Cindy’s message is practical: review every tariff number, examine every applicable annex, document the analysis, and give implementation partners some grace.

This Week in Trade
• The temporary Section 122 tariff ended as the new Section 301 forced-labor tariff regime took effect.

• Section 301 treatment now varies by country, with 10% or 12.5% rates and special MFN calculations for certain trading partners.

• General, country-specific, use-specific, and Section 232 exemptions make product-level classification and origin reviews essential.

• Section 338 tariffs of 50% on selected Canadian products are scheduled to take effect on August 19, 2026.

Main Topic / Discussion
A Layered Section 301 Implementation
Cindy breaks down the new Section 301 duties imposed in connection with foreign forced-labor import prohibitions. The headline rate is only the beginning: importers must determine the correct country treatment, whether the rate is additive or calculated net of MFN duties, and whether the product qualifies for a general or country-specific exemption.

Classification, Exemptions, and Tariff Stacking
The extensive annexes require careful HTS classification and product review. Exemptions include certain raw materials, products that could cause economy-wide disruption, goods unavailable in sufficient quantities from domestic or alternative sources, and products already covered by Section 232.

Cindy also emphasizes the importance of following CBP’s reporting sequence so each trade remedy appears on the correct tariff-stacking level. Errors in sequencing or combining duties can create problems during refund, reconciliation, protest, or liquidation activity.

Canada and Section 338
New Section 338 tariffs add another layer to the changing U.S.–Canada relationship. Cindy considers whether the measures will remain negotiating leverage or take effect as scheduled—and what they could signal for the future of USMCA.

The “Sad, Beautiful, Tragic” Connection
Taylor Swift’s song becomes a metaphor for trade relationships, predictable implementation, and a free-trade environment that may be slipping away. Cindy closes by acknowledging that international trade has entered a fundamentally different era—one requiring closer review, faster adaptation, and stronger coordination across compliance teams.

Key Takeaways
• Do not assume every country receives the same Section 301 treatment. Confirm the country of origin, HTS classification, applicable rate, MFN interaction, and corresponding annex.

• Review both the general exclusions and every applicable country- or use-specific exclusion before determining duty liability.

• Validate tariff stacking and entry-line reporting with your customs broker and software provider to reduce refund, reconciliation, and liquidation problems.

• Assess exposure to the upcoming Section 338 tariffs on Canadian products now, rather than waiting until the scheduled August 19 effective date.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center

• USTR Final Section 301 Action on Forced-Labor Import Prohibitions

• CBP Trade Remedies

• CBP IEEPA Duty Refund Information

• White House Fact Sheet: Additional Tariffs on Canada

Credits
Host:
Cindy Allen

Guest(s):
N/A

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

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Host: Cindy Allen and Pete Mento
Published: July 23, 2026
Length: 41:32
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
Trade enforcement is entering a new phase—and importers, customs brokers, executives, and board members may all be in the line of sight. Cindy Allen and Pete Mento unpack the Department of Justice Trade Fraud Task Force’s announcement that it surpassed $1 billion in civil and criminal recoveries, penalties, forfeitures, and publicly charged losses in less than one year. They explore what that milestone signals for companies that still treat customs compliance as a back-office responsibility.

The conversation moves from CBP Forms 28 and 29 to the government’s expanding ability to combine entry, manifest, and supply-chain data with AI-driven analysis. Cindy and Pete debate whether targeting intelligence should be shared with customs brokers and importers, how companies should approach data collaboration, and why “we’ve always done it this way” is becoming an increasingly dangerous compliance strategy.

They also examine the USMCA annual review cycle, possible changes involving regional value content and Chinese-origin inputs, forced-labor enforcement, manufacturing policy, and the consumer behavior shaping global sourcing. Along the way, a Piggly Wiggly shame board, Bob Newhart’s apartment, and the toilet-paper aisle become memorable lessons about accountability, consumption, and the true cost of inexpensive goods.

This Week in Trade
• The DOJ Trade Fraud Task Force surpasses $1 billion in recoveries and charged losses
• Cindy’s read on the growing significance of CBP Form 29 Notices of Action
• AI, anomaly detection, and government supply-chain mapping
• The USMCA annual review cycle and potential changes to regional content rules

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode explores the transition from trade facilitation and informed compliance to a far more aggressive enforcement environment.

Enforcement and accountability

Cindy and Pete discuss the potential exposure facing importers, customs brokers, executives, CEOs, and board members. Compliance decisions that were once treated as operational details may now create civil, criminal, financial, and reputational consequences.

Data, AI, and early warning

The hosts examine how CBP can use entry, manifest, supplier, and historical data to identify anomalies. They debate whether the government should share more targeting intelligence so customs brokers and importers can identify problems before an entry is filed.

USMCA, sourcing, and consumers

The discussion expands to the USMCA annual review process, possible Chinese-content restrictions, regional value content calculations, forced-labor enforcement, domestic manufacturing, and whether American consumers are prepared to accept higher prices or fewer choices in exchange for more ethical and regionalized supply chains.

Key Takeaways
• Trade compliance is no longer solely the responsibility of the customs or logistics department; executives and board members need visibility into material customs risks and compliance decisions.

• CBP Forms 28 and 29 should be treated as warning signals that may justify a broader review of products, suppliers, valuation, classification, origin, and previous entries.

• Importers and brokers should use data proactively to identify anomalies, understand enforcement patterns, map deeper-tier suppliers, and address risk before filing.

• The USMCA review process, forced-labor enforcement, and possible changes to regional content requirements could reshape sourcing and manufacturing decisions throughout North America.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• DOJ: Trade Fraud Task Force Surpasses $1 Billion in Recoveries and Charged Losses
• CBP Form 28 — Request for Information
• CBP ACE Portal Guidance for Forms 28 and 29
• USTR: Statement on the 2026 USMCA Joint Review

Credits
Host:
Cindy Allen
Pete Mento

Producer:
Mara Marquez

Host: Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles
Guest(s): Mollie Sitkowski
Published: July 22, 2026
Length: 20:54
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
A rarely used provision of the Tariff Act of 1930 is suddenly at the center of North American trade. In this timely episode, Lalo Solorzano and Andy Shiles welcome customs and international trade attorney Mollie Sitkowski to unpack the administration’s three Section 338 proclamations targeting specified Canadian goods. The measures announce additional 50% duties beginning August 19, 2026, across tariff lines connected to disputes involving alcoholic beverages, dairy, and motor vehicles.

Mollie explains why the product coverage is broader, and more complicated, than the three headline sectors suggest, how the new duties interact with Section 232 tariffs, and why USMCA qualification does not exempt covered imports. The conversation also explores whether Congress or the courts could intervene, the possibility that the tariffs are intended to bring Canada back to the negotiating table, and the implications for deeply integrated automotive supply chains.

Most importantly, the episode gives importers a practical response plan: review HTS classifications, recheck Canadian origin under 19 CFR Part 102, monitor CBP implementation guidance, model a 50% worst-case scenario, and coordinate immediately across compliance, sourcing, finance, legal, and government affairs. Whether the duties take effect as announced or change through negotiation, this is the preparation window companies cannot afford to waste.

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode examines the newly announced Section 338 tariffs on specified Canadian imports and what companies should do before the August 19 effective date. Mollie breaks down the legal authority, covered product categories, USMCA and Section 232 treatment, potential challenges, negotiation dynamics, and the immediate classification, origin, forecasting, and supply-chain work importers should begin.

Key Takeaways
• The additional 50% duty applies to specified HTS provisions, not automatically to every Canadian-origin product.

• USMCA qualification does not exempt covered goods, while articles already subject to Section 232 duties are excluded from the new Section 338 duties.

• Importers should validate tariff classifications and country-of-origin determinations, including the application of 19 CFR Part 102, and closely monitor CBP CSMS guidance.

• Compliance, finance, sourcing, legal, customs brokers, and government affairs teams should jointly model the 50% worst-case impact and identify affected shipments, suppliers, contracts, and customers now.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center

• White House Fact Sheet: Additional Tariffs on Canada

• Section 338 Proclamation: Alcoholic Beverages

• Section 338 Proclamation: Dairy

• Section 338 Proclamation: Motor Vehicles

• Mollie Sitkowski – Faegre Drinker

Credits
Host:
Lalo Solorzano

Andy Shiles

Guest(s):
Mollie Sitkowski - LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

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Host: Lalo Solorzano and Ashley Arnold
Published: July 21, 2026
Length: Approximately 12 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
Accurate product classification is the foundation of a strong import compliance program—and one incorrect classification can create problems far beyond the duty rate. In week three of this tips series, Lalo Solorzano and guest host Ashley Arnold explore the practical steps importers can take to build a more accurate, consistent, and defensible classification process.

Drawing on her experience classifying products ranging from apparel to machine components, Ashley explains why importers should never rely solely on a supplier’s suggested tariff number. Suppliers may understand their products, but the importer remains responsible for determining the correct U.S. classification based on complete product specifications, materials, construction, and intended use.

The conversation also covers the value of CBP rulings, written classification rationales, product catalog management, version tracking, and regular audits. Lalo and Ashley discuss why similar-looking products may require different classifications, how small design or material changes can affect an HTS number, and where technology can support—but not replace—professional judgment.

The central takeaway is simple: every classification decision should tell a clear story that can still be understood and defended months or years later.

Main Topic / Discussion
Lalo and Ashley discuss how importers can create a reliable classification program by collecting complete product information, researching relevant rulings, documenting the reasoning behind each decision, and reviewing classifications whenever a product changes.

They also explain why classification affects more than ordinary customs duties. An incorrect HTS number can influence trade-remedy tariffs, free trade agreement analysis, entry audits, and an importer’s overall compliance exposure. Technology can help organize large product catalogs and maintain classification histories, but importers must still apply informed judgment and maintain supporting documentation.

Key Takeaways
• Importers are responsible for the accuracy of their U.S. classifications and should not automatically accept tariff numbers supplied by overseas manufacturers.

• Collect complete product details—including specifications, bills of materials, construction, composition, and intended use—before assigning an HTS number.

• Use relevant CBP rulings and other classification research to support decisions, while recognizing that similar products may not be identical enough to receive the same classification.

• Document the rationale, supporting sources, review history, and product changes so every classification can be clearly explained during a future audit.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center

• CBP Customs Rulings Online Search System — CROSS

• Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States

Credits
Host:

Lalo Solorzano

Ashley Arnold

Producer:

Lalo Solorzano

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Host: Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano
Guest(s): Margo Waldie and Javier Vera
Published: July 16, 2026
Length: 35 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

Summary
Warehousing is far more than a place to store products. It is a critical link in the supply chain that can either accelerate customer delivery or create costly bottlenecks.

In this lively episode of Simply Trade, Andy Shiles and Lalo Solorzano welcome Margo and Javier Vera for a wide-ranging conversation about warehouse operations, technology, employee empowerment, contingency planning, and the value of strong industry relationships.

The group explores what businesses should prioritize as trade policies, tariffs, customer expectations, and supply chain uncertainty continue to evolve. From predictive analytics and equipment readiness to security, sanitation, and faster order cycle times, the discussion highlights the operational decisions that can directly affect customer satisfaction.

The guests also explain the mission behind the Cool Kids networking community and why making industry events more welcoming matters—especially for young professionals and people attending their first conference. They share upcoming opportunities to connect at major intermodal, maritime, breakbulk, and supply chain events.

Along the way, the conversation delivers practical lessons, memorable stories, and plenty of humor about building relationships, mentoring the next generation, and finding your place within the trade and logistics community.

Main Topic / Discussion
This episode examines how warehouse operators can manage uncertainty while meeting growing customer expectations for faster delivery, better visibility, lower costs, and greater flexibility.

The conversation also explores how professional associations, conferences, mentoring, and inclusive networking communities can help supply chain professionals strengthen their knowledge and build valuable industry relationships.

Building Stronger Warehouse Operations
Successful warehouse operations require more than additional space. Companies must invest in technology, employees, equipment, partnerships, security, and contingency planning.

The guests discuss the importance of predictive analytics, reliable material-handling equipment, backup operating procedures, efficient pick-and-pack processes, and empowering frontline employees to solve operational challenges.

Creating More Inclusive Industry Networks
Javier and Margo explain that the Cool Kids community was created to make networking more accessible—not more exclusive. Its mission is to welcome newcomers, connect professionals with shared values, and help emerging supply chain talent build confidence and meaningful relationships.

Making Conferences More Valuable
The episode highlights networking opportunities connected with IANA, Breakbulk, the Virginia Maritime Association, and TPM. The guests encourage attendees to step outside their comfort zones, introduce themselves, and use conferences to build relationships across the trade, logistics, maritime, and warehousing sectors.

Key Takeaways
• Invest in technology, people, equipment, and partnerships rather than relying on a single operational solution.
• Faster warehouse cycle times can improve customer satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of returns.
• Predictive analytics should empower employees and improve decision-making—not simply replace people.
• Contingency planning helps warehouses continue operating when equipment, internet access, or other critical systems fail.
• Frontline employees often understand operational problems best and should be empowered to recommend improvements.
• Safety, security, and sanitation are essential parts of a high-performing warehouse operation.
• Conferences and professional associations can help newcomers find mentors, build confidence, and expand their networks.
• Strong relationships across trade, logistics, maritime, and supply chain communities create opportunities for collaboration.

Resources & Mentions
• Global Training Center
• Cool Kids supply chain networking community
• Intermodal Association of North America
• Breakbulk
• Virginia Maritime Association
• TPM27
• Good to Great by Jim Collins
• Trade Geeks Community

Credits
Host:
Andy Shiles – LinkedIn
Lalo Solorzano – LinkedIn

Guest(s):
Margo Waldie – LinkedIn
Javier Vera – LinkedIn

Producer:
Lalo Solorzano

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🎧 Listen on:

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💬 Connect with us:

• Simply Trade
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Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks!

Want to be on the show or have topic suggestions?
SimplyTrade@GlobalTrainingCenter.com