AAEI Washington Policy Conference

March 18, 2026

Join us at AAEI’s Washington Policy Conference on March 18, 2026 in Washington, DC where trade compliance leaders and government relations teams come together to navigate shifting trade policy changes. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and advance the future of U.S. trade policy.

Key Highlights of the Fly-In:

Engaging discussions and presentations on pressing trade issues

Capitol Hill meetings with key policymakers
Exclusive networking reception with industry leaders, embassy officials, and government and congressional members

Trade compliance professionals and government affairs teams will convene in Washington, DC for a dynamic event designed to foster collaboration, engage policymakers, and navigate shifting trade policies.

The day will begin with educational sessions where attendees will gain critical insights into the latest regulatory developments.

Attendees will then participate in high-impact Capitol Hill meetings, engage in discussions on new tariffs and export controls, and strengthen their industry connections during our evening networking reception.

Agenda & Speakers

7:30 a.m. Doors Open

Hall of the States: 400-444 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001

8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m. Intro and Congressional Speakers/Administration

Former and Current White House National Economic Advisors

9:00 a.m. - 9:40 a.m. Importing Compliance Update: How CBP/DHS enforces the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) | Department of Homeland Security

This education session will provide an overview of EAPA investigations, how the Department of Homeland Security develops EAPA policy, how U.S. Customs and Border Protection conduct investigations, and how they can affect importers. Experts will also provide helpful tips and tools for importers subject to EAPA investigations.

Moderator: Julie Ann Parks, Former AAEI Board of Governors Chairperson
Speaker: Susan Thomas, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan Thomas, CBP Office of Trade

10:00 a.m. - 10:40 a.m. How to Make Your Case on Trade? Hear from Current and Former Congressional Staff

This session will focus on how to effectively prepare and communicate with government officials, including how to prepare your message, delivering your key points, and creating opportunities for follow up and lasting relationships.

11:00 a.m. - 11:40 a.m. Exporting Compliance Update: Managing Key Developments in Export Controls and Sanctions (Departments of Commerce and Treasury)

This education session will educate exporters on new developments in export control, embargo, and sanction policies including insights from the Department of Commerce, the Department of State, and the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control’s (OFAC) sanctions and embargo regulations. Experts will also provide helpful tips and tools for exporters seeking strategies to remain compliant with export control laws.

Moderator: Michael Ford, Tradebridge Consulting
Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department of Commerce

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch | Congressional Speakers/Administration

Former and Current USTR Officials

1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Capitol Hill Visits

Attendees will go to Capitol Hill.

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. AAEI Washington Policy Reception

Attendees will end the day with a reception at the UPS Townhouse, located at: 421 New Jersey Ave SE, Washington, DC

Location

Hall of the States

400-444 North Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20001

Pricing & Registration

AAEI Members: $195

Non-Members: $299

Registration is now closed for this event.

Registrations are transferable any time prior to March 9, 2026. Contact [email protected] for transfer requests. Registration fees are non-refundable.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected] or (202) 857-8009.

NCBFAA Educational Institute (NEI) has approved this program for 2 credits for CCS/MCS, CES/MES, LCB credit type(s).