The BITE Pod

BITE Webinar: Automating trade compliance processes with BITE.Our team will walk through tools that BITE has to offer - and will be offering based on our roadmap - for customs data analysis, including:▶️ The latest data and product feature updates for our tariff simulation tools▶️ Customs entry analysis with BITE tools including IEEPA tariff exposure ▶️ How to consistently screen your product catalog for trade compliance ▶️ Create clear and easy-to-read visuals and reports for the C-Suite to show tariff exposure and changes over time

Join BITE Data and the Deleon Trade LLC team as we help you prepare for the IEEPA refund process.Anne Riitho provides an in-depth demo of BITE's ACE Analyzer module that now includes an IEEPA Refund Calculator to process refunds in bulk. Anne will go over:How to prepare the ES-003 report for upload into BITEData preparation best practiceHow the IEEPA Refund Calculation worksHow to download the finished calculation in CAPE-approved format.Cindy DeLeon, global trade subject matter expert and former CBP Auditor, covers best practices to keep in mind as you prepare for the IEEPA refund process and how Deleon Trade can help you through the process.Cindy Deleon is the founder and Managing Director of Deleon Trade, a company focused on delivering strategic trade compliance solutions for brands and partners navigating today’s global marketplace. With a sharp eye for opportunity and a practical, results-driven approach, Cindy helps businesses streamline operations, build reliable partnerships, and scale their Customs compliance activities.

In this episode of BITE Pod, Anne Riitho speaks with Simran Dalvi of CITTA Brokerage about one of the most technical — and financially meaningful — areas of trade compliance: duty drawback.Simran breaks down what duty drawback is, how it differs from strategies like bonded warehouses and FTZs, and why companies that import and export may be leaving money on the table. The conversation covers how businesses can identify drawback opportunities, where claims often go wrong, and why documentation, inventory traceability, export records, and cross-functional collaboration are essential to building a defensible program.They also discuss the current tariff environment, growing interest in duty recovery, the role of technology and AI in drawback workflows, and why human judgment still matters in customs compliance.Whether you are new to duty drawback or revisiting your trade compliance strategy, this episode offers practical guidance for importers, exporters, finance teams, logistics teams, and global trade compliance professionals.Topics covered: duty drawback, tariff refunds, customs compliance, CBP documentation, import/export records, inventory traceability, trade compliance technology, duty recovery, and drawback program readiness.bitedata.ioCITTA Brokerage

U.S. export controls are becoming more complex — especially for universities, research institutions, and technology-driven organizations operating in global environments. In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho is joined by Dr. Jennifer Saak, Managing Director of Traliance, to break down how export controls actually show up in research and innovation-focused settings.With more than 25 years of experience in export controls compliance and scientific research, Jennifer explains why export classification under the EAR is one of the most challenging aspects of compliance, how deemed exports work in practice, and why compliance officers need to be embedded earlier in research and product development processes.The conversation also explores how organizations can stay ahead of rapidly changing export control regulations, including executive orders, emerging technology controls, and evolving enforcement trends affecting universities and nonprofit research organizations. Jennifer shares practical guidance on systematizing export compliance workflows, building trust with researchers, and using government and industry tools more effectively.This episode is especially relevant for export compliance officers, research administrators, university compliance teams, and global trade professionals navigating export controls in academic and R&D environments.

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) is often presented as a way to simplify imports—but does it actually reduce risk for U.S. buyers?In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho is joined by Andrea Jeglum, customs attorney and licensed customs broker at Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, to break down the legal, financial, and operational realities of buying DDP.Andrea explains what DDP means under Incoterms 2020, why suppliers may appear to pay lower duties, and why U.S. buyers can still face customs scrutiny even when they are not the importer of record. The conversation also explores enforcement trends, including the growing use of the False Claims Act, and why “trust but verify” is critical in DDP arrangements.Listeners will come away with a practical framework for evaluating whether DDP makes sense—grounded in the fundamentals of tariff classification, country of origin, and declared value.This episode is essential listening for trade compliance professionals, importers, and supply chain leaders navigating tariff volatility and importer-of-record risk.

Export compliance shouldn’t be full of surprises — but too often, it is.In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho sits down with Sarah Massie, Founder and President of S Massie Consulting, to unpack the rules exporters deal with every day but rarely feel confident about.Sarah brings more than 20 years of experience in international business, ITAR/EAR guidance, and export compliance training. She breaks down the BIS and OFAC 50% rules, anti-boycott requirements, and common misconceptions around military end users — all in a way that’s clear, practical, and refreshingly non-intimidating.If you’ve ever felt blindsided by the “rules you didn’t know you needed to know,” this conversation will help you rethink how you screen customers, train your teams, and build a compliance program that actually works.Whether you’re a small manufacturer or a global exporter, you’ll walk away with actionable insights — and far fewer surprises.BITE Sarah Massie

Trade compliance is evolving — fast.In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho speaks with Tosca Derrick, Director of Global Trade Compliance at Bunzl Distribution, about how technology, leadership, and context are reshaping the future of global trade.Tosca shares 20+ years of experience in customs and import/export operations, from classifying products at UPS to leading compliance across 23 global businesses. Together, they discuss:How automation is transforming trade complianceThe strategic role of classification and tariff engineeringBuilding stronger compliance programs through technology and dataThe rise of women leaders in international trade (OWIT North Texas)Why trade professionals are no longer the roadblock — they’re the roadmapWhether you work in customs compliance, global trade, or supply chain risk management, this episode offers real-world insights on adapting to change, leading with strategy, and leveraging tools that matter.

What happens when a century-old trade provision suddenly disappears? In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho sits down with Agustin Farias of Passport Global to unpack the sweeping changes to U.S. de minimis rules — once a cornerstone of cross-border e-commerce.Agustin brings more than two decades of experience helping Fortune 100 retailers and international brands expand across borders, optimize logistics, and navigate compliance. Together, we explore:The history of de minimis — from $1 in 1930 to $800 in 2015 — and its 2025 eliminationHow the February, May, and August policy changes disrupted millions of shipments and entire supply chainsThe operational and strategic challenges facing e-commerce and DTC brands, from tariff costs to forced labor complianceHow innovative brands are adapting — from sourcing shifts and duty drawback programs to AI-driven product classificationIf you’re in e-commerce, logistics, or trade compliance, this conversation is a must-listen. Change is the new norm, but with the right strategy, businesses can turn disruption into opportunity.

What do baby gorillas, timber exports, and corporate risk advisory have in common? In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho is joined by William Brown, Eric Stouch, and Elisabeth Frick of Focused Conservation and Akili Alliance, to explore how wildlife trafficking is evolving — and how law enforcement, technology, and business intelligence can work together to stop it. From fake CITES certificates and animal cover loads to capacity building in African wildlife crime units, this conversation spans continents and sectors to spotlight what's really driving illegal trade — and what we can do about it.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho is joined by Thariq Kara, Co-Founder of BITE, and special guest Ruta Riley, a experienced international trade attorney, to break down the critical compliance challenges facing technology startups today. From export controls to sanctions and supply chain risk, this conversation highlights the high stakes of getting trade compliance wrong—and the business advantages of getting it right.Ruta explains what constitutes an export (hint: it’s more than just shipping hardware), and walks through key regulations like ITAR, EAR, and OFAC. The discussion covers how startups can proactively screen for risk, build compliance into their design and supply chain processes, and use automation to avoid costly enforcement actions. Thariq weighs in on the government’s increasing use of data and automation, and why early compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about unlocking global growth.Whether you're working on semiconductors, AI, or any dual-use tech, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world insight to help your startup navigate trade compliance with confidence.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, Anne sits down with Beth Lomax, founder of Lomax Associates and a expert trade compliance consultant specializing in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. Beth walks us through her career journey—from early roles in procurement to leading global trade compliance at Novartis and now advising companies across the life sciences industry.We dive into the unique regulatory landscape pharma companies face, including the roles of the FDA, USDA, DEA, and even the Fish & Wildlife Service. Beth shares why classifying Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (the chemical compounds responsible for a drug’s effects) requires specialized knowledge, how manufacturing constraints impact compliance decisions, and what companies need to know about potential new tariffs.We also touch on practical tools, resource limitations for smaller firms, and the value of even basic automation to support compliance efforts. Whether you're new to trade compliance or navigating complex pharma supply chains, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, we sit down with Kathleen Newell, Massachusetts Export Center, to talk about what it really takes to build a trade compliance program that works—especially for small and mid-sized businesses.Kathleen walks us through:How to form a cross-functional compliance teamKey program elements like classification, screening, and recordkeepingThe importance of training and internal auditsFree and low-cost government and industry resources available to businesses in Massachusetts, and nationallyShe also shares practical advice on tailoring compliance programs to fit your company’s size, industry, and risk profile—plus tips for staying ahead of regulatory change in 2025.Whether you're building a program from scratch or tightening up your existing controls, this episode is packed with actionable insights and support you didn’t know you had access to.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, hosts Anne Riitho & Thariq Kara sit down with eCommerce and supply chain expert Lila Landis to discuss the changing face trade. Lila shares her career journey and how professionals can stand out.We explore what’s changed in eCommerce—from shifting regulations to new tech trends—and why it matters for the future of global trade. Lila also offers practical advice for the trade community on staying compliant, competitive, and ready for what’s next.Topics Covered:Building a career in tradeHow eCommerce is reshaping supply chains and complianceActionable insights for trade professionalsTune in for a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation with one of the industry’s sharpest voices.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, we sit down with Michelle Frennier, founder of Evolution Trade Solutions, to explore the challenges and opportunities in global trade compliance. With over 20 years of experience, Michelle shares insights on how small compliance teams can effectively navigate regulations, the evolving role of technology in trade, and how businesses can leverage data for efficiency and risk mitigation.We also discuss the pitfalls of adopting compliance tools without proper evaluation, how AI is shaping the industry, and the key factors in determining the ROI of trade technology. Plus, we wrap up with a fun conversation about Michelle’s love for vintage cars!Join us for a deep dive into trade compliance, strategy, and innovation with one of the industry’s leading voices.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, Anne sits down with Pete Edge, former Executive Associate Director (EAD) at Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), now CEO at Controlled Strategies, to talk about career evolution, leadership, and the changing landscape of trade enforcement.We discuss:🔹 Pete’s journey from law enforcement to private sector leadership🔹 How HSI’s mission and trade enforcement have evolved over the years🔹 The power of mentorship in helping former agents transition into new careers and the role of the customs / HSI alumni association🔹 What leadership looks like in high-stakes compliance and investigationsIf you're interested in career pivots, the intersection of government and industry, or the future of trade enforcement, this episode is for you!

The Future of Trade Compliance with Kyle GroblerDiscover how trade compliance is evolving with Kyle Grobler in this insightful episode. Kyle shares his journey from South Africa to becoming a global trade compliance expert. He dives into topics like HTS classifications, cost-saving strategies, and proactive solutions for cross-border shipments and customs. You’ll also hear about: Practical tips for simplifying trade compliance processes. The role of AI in building a risk-free, efficient future for global trade. Cost-effective strategies every business should adopt. Leadership insights and mentoring tips for navigating the industry. Whether you’re new to trade compliance or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Recorded: December 2024

In this episode of The BITE Pod, hosts Anne Riitho and Thariq Kara sit down with Mack West for a dynamic conversation that blends personal stories with sharp industry insights. Mack shares what it’s like to work for a family-owned business in the fast-paced world of trade compliance and logistics. From his unique perspective, we explore key predictions for 2025, including what’s on the horizon for de minimus thresholds, tariffs, and Canada’s CARM initiative. With Mack’s "crystal ball" predictions, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone navigating the complexities of global trade. Tune in for an engaging discussion that’s equal parts practical and visionary. Don’t miss this chance to hear Mack’s insights on where the industry is headed and how businesses can stay ahead!

In this episode of The BITE Pod, we sit down with Cindy Allen to explore key trade compliance developments from 2024, including insights on forced labor regulations, de minimis thresholds, and tariffs. Cindy shares her outlook for 2025, highlighting critical trends in supply chain management and trade compliance, with a particular focus on tariffs. We also dive into her inspiring career journey, discussing strategies for transitioning from government roles into private sector success.

Join us for an engaging discussion with Tim O'Toole as we explore the evolving role of sanctions and tariffs in U.S. foreign policy. From the impact of past presidential administrations to predictions for the incoming leadership, we uncover how export controls and trade measures shape global relations. Gain insights into key trends, regulatory shifts, and what lies ahead for businesses and policymakers.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho is joined by BITE CEO Thariq Kara and William Jansen, Director of Customs Brokerage & Account Management - Ecommerce at SEKO Logistics. William shares his journey into customs brokerage, outlining the various career paths available and spotlighting significant trends in the industry over the past five years. We discuss how leading organizations are supporting the trade community and examine the influence of AI-driven tools on the future of customs compliance. Join us for expert insights, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on the evolving world of international trade.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho, alongside BITE CEO and co-founder Thariq Kara, welcomes Tess Bone, a leader in corporate responsibility and ethical sourcing. Tess, with her experience at Tiffany & Co. and Fontheim International, brings fresh insights into tackling today's biggest challenges in global supply chains. Dive into a powerful discussion on forced labor, child labor, gender-based violence, and the suppression of workers' rights, all while exploring how businesses can stay ahead of evolving trade policies and ESG expectations. Tess shares actionable advice on building sustainable supply chains, addressing consumer demands for transparency, and leveraging digital tools for better reporting and decision-making. Fontheim International draws upon many decades of experience in business, civil society, international organizations, and government. They enable their clients to navigate ESG, geopolitical, and public policy challenges and opportunities. Whether you’re in compliance, responsible sourcing, or corporate governance, this episode delivers cutting-edge strategies to foster ethical business practices and strengthen your global supply chain.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, Anne Riitho is joined by Bruce Foucart, an expert in intellectual property rights enforcement, and Timothy Gildea. They delve into the critical importance of protecting intellectual property, discussing the risks and impacts of IP theft on businesses, consumers, and national security. Bruce shares his extensive experience from his time as the Director of the US National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, offering insights into the challenges of combating counterfeit goods and the innovative strategies being used to protect IP worldwide. Whether you're a business owner, law enforcement officer, or just curious about intellectual property, this episode provides valuable knowledge on safeguarding creativity and innovation in the digital age.

Welcome to The BITE Pod, your go-to source for insightful discussions on export controls, compliance, and risk management. Join our host Anne Riitho and Ken MacDonald as they delve into the complexities of the regulatory landscape. With over 30 years of experience in criminal investigations, specializing in cross-border crimes, export control, and counter-proliferation, Ken MacDonald brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. In this episode, we break down the latest developments in export controls, discuss the challenges various industries face, and provide actionable advice for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're in high-tech, agriculture, textiles, or consumer goods, The BITE Pod offers valuable insights to help you navigate the ever-evolving world of export compliance. Tune in as we explore emerging trends, share real-world experiences, and provide practical strategies to stay ahead of regulatory changes. Don't miss out on our expert analysis and tips to ensure your business remains compliant and competitive. Stay connected with us on Instagram and LinkedIn, and visit our website at bitedata.io for more information. Interested in a demo of the BITE platform? Sign up for a free trial at app.bitedata.io or email us at [email protected]. Join us on The BITE Pod—where expert insights meet practical solutions.

Join us on The BITE Pod as we delve into ESG—Environmental, Social, and Governance—and its vital role in global trade. This episode features Anne Marie, a recent Mount Allison University graduate with a passion for the intersection of religion and the climate crisis, and Tijana, a renewable energy expert with extensive experience in sub-Saharan Africa and Europe. Together, we unpack ESG's impact on pollution, forced labor, and carbon emissions, and discuss practical frameworks and regulations like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Learn about the challenges and opportunities in measuring and implementing ESG and discover how proactive supply chain risk management can drive positive change. Don't miss this insightful conversation! Tune in now, and visit bitedata.io for a demo and a fourteen-day free trial of our AI-powered trade data platform.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, host Anne Riitho and trade auditor Cindy DeLeon tackle the pressing issue of forced labor compliance. Cindy, an expert in customs compliance, shares insights on preparing for anticipated changes to the UFLPA's Entity List and navigating increased enforcement actions. They discuss the implications of these developments for the future of trade compliance and stress the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders and government agencies in combating forced labor in supply chains.

In this episode of The BITE Pod, join the BITE Team and legal expert Jonathan Tycko as they delve into the intricate world of customs fraud and whistleblowing under the False Claims Act. Discover how the Act operates in combating fraud against the government, including recent statistics and reports from the Department of Justice. Explore the various challenges faced by whistleblowers in bringing forward customs fraud cases and the role of data in detection and prosecution. Gain insights into the key elements necessary for a successful False Claims Act case, with a focus on customs and trade, and the evolving role of technology in this ongoing battle against fraud. Jonathan Tycko Background: Jonathan Tycko is a distinguished attorney specializing in whistleblower representation and qui tam litigation under the False Claims Act. His work has exposed hundreds of millions of dollars in fraud, including cases involving customs duties and tariffs, which are vital components of international trade. Mr. Tycko has been recognized as a leader in his field, serving as a Co-Chair of the Conference Committee of the Taxpayers Against Fraud Education Fund and receiving the National Law Review's "Go-To Thought Leader" award in False Claims Act law. He is a founding partner of Tycko & Zavareei LLP and has taught as an Adjunct Professor at the George Washington University Law School.

On this month's episode of the BITE Pod, hosts Anne Riitho, Dr. Tim Gildea, and esteemed guest, Dr. David Gerstein, provide an insightful discussion on safeguarding national security and fostering responsible trade practices. Dr. Gildea and Dr. Gerstein explore the challenges and developments in regulating critical and emerging technologies and share their predictions on future compliance trends. Tune into The BITE Pod for a deep dive into strategic trade controls and the innovative solutions offered by the BITE app. #TheBITEPod #TradeCompliance #EmergingTechnologies #NationalSecurity

Join the BITE Team and special guest, David Albright, as we discuss Russia's efforts to avoid sanctions and bolster their drone manufacturing and procurement to support their war efforts in Ukraine. We highlight the gaps and loopholes in enforcement against this procurement, cover the different analytic approaches needed to close these gaps, as well as discuss Iran's involvement in Russian drone production. Interested in a free demo of BITE? Head over to bitedata.io/contact and schedule a meeting with our team today! Guest Speaker: David Albright, a physicist, is founder and President of the non-profit Institute for Science and International Security in Washington, D.C. He directs the project work of the Institute, heads its fundraising efforts, and chairs its board of directors. In addition, he regularly publishes and conducts scientific research. He has written numerous assessments on secret nuclear weapons programs throughout the world. Albright has been cited often in the media and appeared frequently on television and radio. He has been cited regularly in the New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, Los Angeles Times, Newsweek, Time, Washington Times, Boston Globe, Chicago Tribune, London Sunday Times, Guardian, Die Zeit, Ashi Shimbun, Der Spiegel, Stern, and Times of India and by Reuters, Associated Press, AFP and Bloomberg wire services. Albright has also appeared many times on CNN, FOX, MSNBC, ABC World News Tonight, NBC Nightly News, CBS Evening News, Newshour with Jim Lehrer, 60 Minutes, Dateline, Nightline and multiple National Public Radio shows.

The BITE Team discusses Anti Dumping/ Countervailing Duty Orders with special guest, Lance Lueck. Lance gives his perspective on the current AD/CVD climate and the BITE Team digs into the data to show what we’re seeing in BITE’s trade data. If you’re interested in protecting American trade and international economic interests, then this is the episode for you!

The BITE team had the pleasure of having Bob Kossick on our Trade Enforcement webinar last week. The team had a great discussion with Bob about the latest trends and updates in the Forced Labor / UFLPA enforcement domain. Anne Riitho then provided an overview of our analytical focus for the month of August, looking into Chenguang Biotech Group, and its role in forced labor transshipment networks emanating from the Xinjiang region in China and how the BITE platform uncovered the transshipment links. All our analysis is available on the BITE platform (Link in bio or app.bitedata.io), with our investigative analysis available on our website - https://www.bitedata.io/post/investigative-lens-uncovering-forced-labor-networks-xinjiang.

Join the Business Intelligence for Trade Enforcement (BITE) team and special guest, David Hall, this month as we focus on intellectual property rights (IPR) and its importance to the trade community. The podcast panel will discuss: The importance of IPR regulations The due diligence required of importers/exporters in relation to IPR Real life use cases Guest Speaker: David Hall was a federal prosecutor for twenty-three years. He served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve for thirty years, retiring at the rank of captain. David currently works as a partner at Wiggin and Dana LLP.

Check out the latest edition of the BITE Pod. The BITE Team delves into the BITE Score with real world examples of how this new, AI-powered technology can protect importers and exporters from working with sanctioned entities. Learn how your business can secure your supply chain and efficiently monitor your trade transactions with the BITE Score. Interested in learning more about BITE? Reach out to us about setting up a free demo at bitedata.io/bite-score. We also offer a free, 5-day trial of BITE you can sign up for at app.bitedata.io.