[TIPS] Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators

Episode Title: Trade & Tech Series: Using Technology to Unlock Duty Mitigators Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli & Julie Parks (Hammer & Heels) Published Date: January 27, 2026 Episode Length: ~11 minutes Series: Trade & Tech 🔍 Episode Summary In this episode of Simply Trade Tips, Renee and Julie dive into duty mitigators and how technology is transforming the way trade professionals manage voluntary customs programs. From drawback and foreign trade zones to Chapter 98 provisions and free trade agreements, the conversation focuses on how tech-enabled subprocesses can reduce risk, improve compliance, and make mitigator programs operationally feasible. The key takeaway? Mitigators aren’t just about duty savings — they’re about building smart, data-driven compliance strategies that align labor, systems, and business objectives. 📌 Key Topics Covered What duty mitigators really are — and why they’re often misunderstood The role of voluntary programs in customs compliance How technology supports complex mitigators like: Drawback programs Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) Chapter 98 provisions (including TIBs and returns) Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) First Sale for Export Why accurate HTS classification is a mitigator in itself How tech helps create stronger business cases for mitigator programs In-house vs. outsourced compliance — and why tech matters in both 💡 Key Takeaways Mitigators require structured subprocesses — technology makes them scalable Tech connects core business systems so import and export data work together Good data in = good data out (and bad data creates risk fast) Mitigators shouldn’t be dismissed due to overhead — tech changes the math Asking vendors how they leverage technology can impact pricing and value 🛠️ This Week’s FIO (Figure It Out) Pick one mitigator and analyze it using your own data. Review your ACE data or internal trade data Identify one potential mitigator (drawback, FTZ, TIB, FTA, etc.) Determine if your import and export activity supports it Assess whether technology could make it viable and compliant Remember: not all mitigators apply to all duties — understanding eligibility is key. 🌐 Join the Conversation Be part of the discussion inside the Trade Geeks Community and let us know how your FIO analysis goes. We’ll be sharing episodes, insights, and real-world trade conversations there. 👉 Trade Geeks Community: https://globaltrainingcenter.com/portal/ 🎤 Credits Hosts: Renee Chiuchiarelli Julie Parks Producer: Lalo Solorzano 🎧 Subscribe & Follow New Simply Trade Tips episodes every Tuesday. Presented by: Global Training Center — education, consulting, workshops & compliance resources for trade professionals. Connect With Us Simply Trade Podcast on LinkedIn Global Training Center on LinkedIn YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Trade Geeks Community 💬 Don’t forget to rate, review & share with your fellow trade geeks! 💡 Want to Be on the Show or Have Topic Suggestions? 📧 Email us at [email protected] 🐦 Follow us on X (Twitter): @SimplyTradePod