Description

Host: Annik Sobing
Guest: Elizabeth Lomax, Trade Compliance Consultant (Pharma Specialist)
Published: October 23
Length: ~25 minutes
Presented by: Global Training Center

In this Simply Trade News Roundup, host Annik sits down with leading trade compliance consultant Elizabeth Lomax to tackle the timely and turbulent world of the pharmaceutical supply chain. With shifting trade rules, tariff threats, and regulatory uncertainty dominating industry headlines, Elizabeth shares real-world insight into how manufacturers—especially smaller innovators—are navigating anxiety, adapting compliance processes, and preparing for possible disruption. The conversation breaks down executive orders, HTS code strategy, the impact of de minimis changes, and the crucial role of documentation.

Together, they address how ongoing tariff debates, differential exemption policies, and rapid-fire policy shifts are shaping both immediate risk and long-term strategy for pharmaceutical companies of all sizes.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The state of pharma tariffs, exemptions, and compliance in 2025
• “Big Pharma” vs. smaller innovators—who the rules favor, and why
• How executive orders and truth social posts differ from enforceable policy
• HTS code strategies, annex exemptions, and documentation best practices
• How tariffs and cash flow risks hit small businesses hardest
• What de minimis no longer means for the industry in practice
• The impact (and irony) of U.S. policy on drug pricing, shortages, and innovation
• Why ACE reports and robust recordkeeping are make-or-break for compliance
• How to model tariff scenarios and strengthen your playbook—no matter what comes next

Key Takeaways

• “Tariff anxiety” is real—prepare processes, but don’t panic over shifting headlines
• Accurate classification, valuation, and country of origin are your best defense
• Small pharma faces unique hurdles when policy focuses on negotiation and volume
• Stay plugged in to new developments and keep your compliance documentation airtight
• Trade teams may need added resources or automation to keep pace with a volatile landscape
• ACE reporting, scenario modeling, and strategic partnerships can help mitigate future shocks

Resources

• FDA Policy Updates
• ACE Reporting Guides
• Global Training Center’s Three Pillars Course

Credits

Host: Annik Sobing
Guest: Elizabeth Lomax
Producer: Lalo Solorzano

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Presented by: Global Training Center — providing education, consulting, workshops, and compliance resources for trade professionals.
👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com

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