The era of predictable global trade is over. As tariffs reshape supply chains, geopolitical tensions disrupt established trade routes, and regulatory enforcement intensifies, organizations face unprecedented complexity in managing cross-border commerce. Trade and tariffs compliance has evolved into a strategic imperative that touches every aspect of business operations—from board-level risk management to operational efficiency and competitive positioning.
As global trade policies grow more complex and enforcement priorities evolve, organizations are under pressure to move beyond reactive compliance. Successfully managing tariffs and trade risk today requires more than technical know-how—it calls for a strategic, cross-functional approach that aligns legal, operational, and financial priorities. The most resilient organizations are those treating trade compliance not just as a regulatory obligation, but as a lever for operational clarity, cost management, and long-term resilience.
The stakes are getting higher. With the DOJ prioritizing tariff enforcement and civil False Claims Act cases on the rise, compliance failures can carry significant criminal, civil and reputational risks. Below, find our insights to keep you one step ahead of shifts in the ever-changing landscape.
Strategic Framework: From Risk Management to Opportunity Creation
Board-Level Governance and Strategic Oversight
Today’s volatile trade environment demands more than operational management—it requires strategic leadership with global trade expertise. Boards are increasingly called upon to navigate the strategic implications of tariffs and trade volatility. In response, many are adopting “tariff war rooms,” commissioning end-to-end supply chain risk assessments, and using scenario-based planning to anticipate and respond to evolving exposures. As trade risks move from operational to enterprise-level concerns, some boards are rethinking their structures—forming dedicated Trade Risk Committees and engaging more frequently with management to inform both short- and long-term strategy. Read more here.
COSO-Integrated Risk Management
Effective tariff management requires a structured, enterprise-wide approach. Integrating tariff compliance into a COSO-based internal control framework can help organizations move beyond reactive risk management. Applying the five COSO components—Control Environment, Risk Assessment, Control Activities, Information & Communication, and Monitoring—offers a structured approach to identifying and addressing trade-related exposures. In doing so, companies not only strengthen compliance but also gain clearer visibility into potential efficiencies, cost savings, and emerging risks in their supply chains. Find more of our insights here.
Operational Excellence: Beyond Compliance to Transactional Mastery
Transactional Excellence Methodology
As trade compliance becomes increasingly complex, leading organizations are rethinking how it’s embedded within day-to-day operations. Rather than treating compliance as a siloed function or necessary checkpoint, a transactional excellence model views it as an integrated part of how business gets done. This approach spans the full lifecycle of international trade—requiring alignment between commercial goals and regulatory obligations, and coordination across cross-functional teams with clearly defined roles. The result is not just reduced risk, but greater operational clarity and resilience. Start your journey here.
Technical Expertise and Practical Solutions
Customs compliance hinges on mastering the fundamentals—accurate classification, proper valuation, understanding admissibility standards, and identifying opportunities for duty reduction. Internal controls must keep pace with evolving enforcement priorities and supply chain realities. This includes:
- Tariff Classification and HTS Code Optimization: Independent expert analysis to ensure correct classifications, potentially resulting in reduced tariffs and refund opportunities
- Country of Origin Determination: Navigating evolving FTA rules and substantial transformation tests as trade agreements are renegotiated
- Duty Drawback Programs: Strategic planning and implementation to maximize refund opportunities for exported goods
- Foreign Trade Zones and Bonded Warehouses: Leveraging special customs procedures to manage tariff exposure and inventory staging
- Supply Chain Restructuring: Contract manufacturing, joint ventures, tariff engineering, and first sale optimization strategies
- Partner and Vendor Risk Management: Organizations must evaluate and monitor customs brokers and freight forwarders, identifying critical red flags
Ready to Transform Your Strategy?
Whether you’re strengthening existing compliance programs, navigating new regulatory requirements, or seeking to optimize supply chain costs, our team is ready to help you turn trade complexity into competitive advantage. StoneTurn partners with law firms to provide the investigative, forensic, and advisory support needed to navigate this complex terrain.
Reach out to Jonny Frank, Eric Hines, or Snežana Gebauer to discuss these topics and how StoneTurn can help.
To receive StoneTurn Insights, sign up for our newsletter.
