Concept: This program will address the importance & essential elements of an international trade compliance program (TCP) for established and new to market technology exporters.
Overview: US companies of all sizes are often unaware of the US government’s international trade regulations. New to market companies are particularly vulnerable. Technology companies often introduce new, foundational or emerging technology that might not be on the USG radar. Understanding these regulations, how to apply them and operate within their parameters is important for any business participating in a global marketplace.
Building and adopting a customized TCP will not only inform how the company stays within the regulatory lanes but will also train staff to avoid possible violations. The discussion will identify key foundational elements of a TCP which are necessary to develop a successful program.
Presentation: The presentation is designed to be a high-level introduction to international trade compliance particularly focused on technology. The program will include a discussion on the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), as well as the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR).
The program will include identifying foundational elements of a program as well as a number of variables specific to export compliance. Using real-life examples, this session will address each component, how to adapt elements to a particular business model and how to use these tools to de-risk international trade.
Date and Time: Postponed, New Date TBA
Speaker: Dulce Zahniser is the Managing Director of Towpath Group International, LLC where she represents clients involved in global technology solutions, manufacturing, energy, agribusiness, real estate development, communications, financial services, and smart technology.
Her primary focus is on export strategy, international trade compliance (ITAR and EAR), as well as export credit and investment financing. She works for both private sector clients and US government agencies. For government work, Dulce has worked on development activities with such organizations as USAID, US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the Department of Defense. Prior to forming Towpath in 2009, she was a senior executive of the Overseas Private Investment Agency (OPIC), the US government agency supporting US private sector investment in emerging economies.
In addition to Towpath, Dulce is a Senior International Trade Specialist for the Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) since 2020. She supports small and medium sized enterprises with global trade management, global marketing, export controls, international business planning and supply trade finance.
Dulce is a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) and a member of the Virginia/DC District Export Council (DEC). In addition, her professional associations include the Society for International Affairs, the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA), National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association (NCBFAA) and the Washington International Trade Association (WITA). She has an MA in International Commerce and Policy as well as a Certificate in Global Trade Management from George Mason University and a BA from American University.