[ROUNDUP] Tariffs, EVs, and Forced Labor: What’s Driving the Auto Industry Now

Automotive in Flux This week on the Simply Trade Roundup, host Annik Sobing is joined by licensed customs broker and Master Customs Specialist Filipp Zaborenko to tackle the fast-changing world of automotive trade compliance. From shifting tariffs and forced labor enforcement to steel and aluminum duties and the evolving EV market, the conversation dives into how automakers and compliance professionals can keep pace with uncertainty while planning for the future. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Tariff Shifts – The new EU–US trade deal and what a 15% duty means for automakers Forced Labor Rules – Why due diligence never went away — and why enforcement is heating up Cost Planning Uncertainty – How long-term auto production faces tariff unpredictability Classification Challenges – Why misclassifying parts could cost millions under new rules EVs Under the Microscope – The love-hate relationship with electric vehicles and new classification hurdles Compliance Strategy – Staying proactive when trade feels more like reaction mode Key Takeaways: Tariff changes reshape auto supply chains but leave long-term planning murky. Forced labor enforcement remains a top priority for global automakers. Steel and aluminum tariffs add complexity to tariff classification and cost modeling. Correct classification directly impacts USMCA eligibility and tariff exposure. Compliance pros must embrace both vigilance and technology — including AI tools — to stay ahead. Resources & Mentions: Filipp Zaborenko’s upcoming Automotive Classification Advanced Mini-Course (Sept 16–18) via Global Training Center Recent EU–US automotive tariff updates UFLPA and forced labor due diligence requirements CBP guidance on steel and aluminum tariffs Credits Host: Annik Sobing https://www.linkedin.com/in/annik-sobing-mba-b226251a2/ Producer: Lalo Solorzano https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalosolorzano/ Guest: Filipp Zaborenko Subscribe & Follow: New Roundup episodes every Monday. Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect with us on LinkedIn, LinkedIn (GTC), YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts,join the Trade Geeks community, or email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share with your fellow trade geeks! Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? Reach us at [email protected] or DM us on Twitter/X @SimplyTradePod