In this episode of Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer, Evelyn Ackah, Evelyn speaks with Deborah Stern, a partner at Sandler, Travis and Rosenberg, about the rapidly changing world of US-Canada trade compliance. With her unique background as both a former US Customs official and current private practice attorney, Deborah brings over 18 years of expertise helping businesses navigate the complex intersection of tariffs, trade agreements and cross-border regulations.

The conversation covers tariff classification fundamentals and how recent policy changes have created daily challenges for cross-border businesses. Deborah explains complex new requirements like steel content reporting and forced labour compliance, showing how modern trade extends far beyond simple customs forms. They explore how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) intersects with current tariff policies, why setting up a US entity isn’t a simple tariff solution, and the importance of supply chain transparency.

Whether you’re a Canadian business expanding into the United States market or curious about the intersection of immigration and international trade, this episode offers valuable insights for navigating today’s cross-border business landscape.

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Here are the key points from Evelyn Ackah’s podcast interview with Deborah Stern:

This episode features Deborah Stern, Partner at Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, who shares her deep expertise in US customs law, tariffs, and global trade compliance.

Deborah Stern’s Trade Law Background

  • Began career at the US Customs Service, specializing in tariff classification and customs compliance

  • Represented the US as a delegate to the World Customs Organization’s Harmonized System Committee

  • Joined Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, where she has spent 18 years advising multinational clients on trade, tariffs and sanctions

Understanding Tariffs and Trade Agreements

  • Defines tariffs as taxes on imported goods, determined by product classification in the harmonized tariff schedule

  • Explains how agreements like NAFTA/USMCA intersect with emergency tariffs and exemptions

  • Notes ongoing legal disputes over presidential authority to impose tariffs, with potential Supreme Court involvement

Client Challenges in Today’s Market

  • Works with clients ranging from small businesses to large multinationals across industries like tech, food and manufacturing

  • Advises on valuation, supply chain transparency, and rules of origin to manage risks and reduce costs

  • Highlights how tariffs, steel and aluminum rules, and China trade measures create uncertainty for businesses

Supply Chain Transparency and Compliance

  • Businesses now face strict requirements to trace steel, aluminum, and other materials back to their origin

  • Failure to verify details such as “melt and pour” for steel can trigger tariffs as high as 200%

  • Companies must also comply with forced labour laws such as the Uyghur Forced Labour Prevention Act, requiring deeper supply chain due diligence

Adapting to Constant Change

  • Regulatory updates and tariff measures are changing weekly, sometimes daily, making proactive compliance essential

  • Firms must collaborate closely with customs brokers and legal advisors to stay ahead of new rules

  • Creativity, industry-specific solutions, and careful structuring of cross-border operations can help mitigate risks and manage costs

Key Takeaways for Businesses

  • Tariffs and trade rules are complex and unpredictable, requiring continuous monitoring

  • Supply chain visibility is no longer optional but a core compliance and cost-control requirement

  • Expert legal and trade guidance can help businesses remain resilient in an uncertain global trade environment

Navigating tariffs and trade rules can be complex and unpredictable; however, Deborah Stern’s insights underscore the importance of supply chain transparency and expert guidance. Staying informed and proactive is key for businesses to manage risk and thrive in today’s global market.

About Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah

Evelyn Ackah is the Founder and Managing Lawyer at Ackah Business Immigration Law. With offices in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver, we work with individuals and business owners from all over the world who want to cross borders seamlessly. For more information on immigration to Canada or the United States, reach out to Evelyn at Ackah Business Immigration Law today by calling (587) 854‑3821 or emailing Evelyn directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.

The Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast, hosted by Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah, was named the #1 Best Canada Immigration Podcast in 2023 by Feedspot.