Foreign Trade Zones: What to Know and How to Use to Your Business Advantage

Join us for an in-depth seminar on Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) and how they can unlock powerful cost-saving and operational advantages for your business.
Registration and Networking - 8:00am to 8:30am
Presentation, Discussion, and Questions - 8:30am to 10:00am

Foreign Trade Zones are secure areas under U.S. Customs and Border Protection supervision that are considered outside of U.S. customs territory for tariff purposes. Companies operating within FTZs can defer, reduce, or even eliminate customs duties, improve cash flow, streamline supply chains, and enhance global competitiveness. Whether you’re involved in manufacturing, distribution, logistics, or international trade, understanding how FTZs work can provide a significant strategic edge.

This seminar will feature expert insights from Dave Gutheil, Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Cleveland and Professor John Senese, two experienced leaders in international trade and zone management. They will break down the fundamentals of FTZs, explain eligibility and activation processes, and share real-world case studies demonstrating measurable financial and operational benefits. Attendees will also gain practical guidance on compliance requirements, customs procedures, and how to determine whether an FTZ strategy aligns with their business goals.

Key topics include:

• Duty deferral, reduction, and elimination strategies
• Inverted tariff benefits for manufacturers
• Cash flow improvements and supply chain efficiencies
• Customs compliance and regulatory considerations
• Steps to establish or utilize an existing FTZ

This session is ideal for executives, operations leaders, supply chain managers, CFOs, trade compliance professionals, and business owners seeking to optimize their global trade strategy.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how leveraging a Foreign Trade Zone can strengthen your bottom line and position your company for growth in an increasingly competitive international marketplace.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Mentor