Tariffs and trade regulations are evolving, and it’s critical for any small business to understand their impact. This session provides insights into what tariffs are, the short– and long-term effects, and the resources available to help navigate these changes. Key items include importing and exporting goods and international trade.
Lauro Arias, Assistant Director, Office of Trade and Investment the arm of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity that orchestrates export promotion and foreign direct investment. He brings a wealth of expertise in international trade to this position, including serving as director of an International Trade Center for the Illinois Small Business Development Center at ICNC. A native of Uruguay, Arias studied in England where he obtained a M.Sc. in agriculture economics at the University of Reading
Lisa Victoria Waller (Anderson) is the President and co-owner of BDG International, Inc., a renowned full-service international freight forwarder, U.S. Customs Broker, FTZ consultant, and trade consultancy based in Elgin (Chicago), Illinois. Founded in 1983 by the Anderson family, BDG International has become an industry leader, recognized for its excellence in global trade services. Notably, in 2013, the firm was awarded the prestigious President’s “E” Award for Excellence in Exporting by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Under Lisa’s leadership, the company expanded its global footprint by launching BDG International (India) Pvt Ltd in 2007, with additional offices in Mumbai (2020), Ahmedabad (2022) and BDG International for Logistics Service (Jordan) LLC. (2025). Lisa is actively involved in shaping U.S. trade policy and customs practices. She serves as Executive Secretary of the Illinois District Export Council, appointed by the U.S. Department of Commerce, and is the President of the Chicago Customs Broker and Forwarder Association. A Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Export and Customs Specialist, Lisa has more than 32 years of experience in global trade. She has developed a specialized FTZ (Foreign Trade Zone) consulting and administration program that supports U.S. and foreign direct investment companies in optimizing trade strategies.
