Learn more about speaker Albert Saphir, principal at ABS Consulting, who will be leading a Deep Dive Session on creating a secure and compliant international supply chain on Sunday, April 29, 2018 during the 2018 Annual Shippers Conference and Expo in Orlando, Florida. If you still haven't registered for the conference, do so here. 

NASSTRAC: Can you describe in more detail what your deep dive session will cover?

Albert: We will take a deep-dive into key aspects of import and export trade compliance, trade security initiatives (CBP, TSA, CTPAT, ISF, Advance Shipping Data, AEO etc.) and finish off with insights into FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) regulations for ocean freight forwarders and NVOCC. Having a solid understanding of the import and export trade regulations is critical for every company that is importing, exporting, or planning to do so. In addition, trade security has dramatically changed the way international shipping must be conducted since the tragic events of 9/11.  This session will highlight all the key programs and requirements to ensure participants will leave with a solid understanding of the facts.

NASSTRAC:  Who would you recommend taking your course?

Albert: Anyone involved in importing or exporting today as well anyone that may start importing or exporting in the near future.  Of course, also anyone just trying to learn more about this challenging but interesting segment.

NASSTRAC: Why do you think this course is necessary now? How will it address the ever-shifting nature of the industry?

Albert: Importing and exporting has become much more complex over time, and the aspects of trade security further complicate matters.  Further penalties issued by U.S. Government agencies for non-compliance with regulations have dramatically increased in recent years.  In some cases what used to be a $500 penalty (cost of doing business for many) is over $13,000 now to start with, which will certainly get the company owner’s attention.  It no longer is just a cost of doing business. We will speak about the recent changes and the fact that regulations will continue to change more rapidly in the future, similar to what is happening in the technology sectors.  It can be difficult to keep up with everything at times.

NASSTRAC: Where does security compliance components for importers and exporters fall in among the changes happening in the industry?

Albert: Most of the U.S. and foreign security requirements are around advance data notifications prior to departure of shipments, as well as securing the door-to-door supply chain.  This requires a very strong understanding of each puzzle piece of your international supply chain and knowing every partner (suppliers, carriers, forwarders, warehouses etc.) that touch your shipment.  Overall, global supply chain security has taken on its own life and as such does not follow other industry changes, although in some cases best practices will attempt to combine efforts as much as possible.

NASSTRAC: What do you see for the industry as a whole in the coming years?

Albert: Keep an open mind, keep learning continuously and prepare for the unexpected.  Overall, I expect global trade to continue to grow much, but only those knowledgeable and prepared will be successful over time.  And nothing will ever be perfect, so mistakes will happen and you want to be in a position to mitigate those unfortunate circumstances as much as possible.