The Future of Trade Governance: AI, Data, and the Expanding Reach of Regulation

Artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics are transforming how goods move across borders—and how governments regulate them. At the same time, trade policy is expanding far beyond tariffs to encompass forced labor, export controls, economic security, supply chain transparency, sanctions, and digital trade. This keynote will explore how technology and governance are converging to reshape global commerce, the new risks and opportunities facing businesses, and what trade professionals must do to remain competitive and compliant in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

As AI and automation transform trade compliance, regulators worldwide are expanding enforcement efforts and scrutinizing emerging technologies. This joint AAEI and Global Customs Lawyers Association panel brings together leading trade attorneys from the U.S., EU, Latin America, and Asia to discuss evolving compliance expectations, AI-driven customs processes, and key legal considerations surrounding data governance, service provider relations, and SaaS-based trade solutions.

Artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping import compliance, from tariff engineering, HTS classification and supply chain mapping to forced labor due diligence and FTA qualification. In this interactive session, attendees will participate in live polling and benchmarking exercises while industry practitioners share real-world experiences implementing these technologies.

As export controls and sanctions continue to expand, companies are navigating a compliance environment with fewer opportunities for direct engagement with regulators and reduced regulatory guidance. This panel will examine the growing disconnect between industry and government, the impact on compliance decision-making, and how organizations can strengthen internal controls, data governance, and risk-based compliance programs to manage uncertainty in an era of heightened enforcement and evolving national security priorities. Drawing on insights from leading export control attorneys and former government officials, the discussion will explore strategies for maintaining effective compliance amid rapidly changing regulatory expectations.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping trade compliance, creating new opportunities for efficiency while raising important questions about governance, risk, and regulatory expectations. This session will showcase key findings from AAEI’s AI White Paper and engage attendees in an interactive discussion on AI adoption, implementation challenges, and emerging priorities. The panel will explore both the future compliance risks of AI—including data governance, accountability, and regulatory scrutiny—and the potential cost-avoidance opportunities enabled by automation, enhanced visibility, and data-driven decision-making. Through live polling and audience participation, attendees will help identify emerging trends and inform future AAEI initiatives at the intersection of AI and trade compliance.