Dear NAFTZ Friends,

Welcome to 2025, the best year of your life!

Since all geopolitical and trade roads seem to pass through China, it feels fitting to acknowledge that we’re entering the Year of the Snake. Representing wisdom, strategy, transformation, and good fortune, the snake is a perfect symbol for the transformations ahead, particularly as a new U.S. Presidential administration takes the helm, poised to enact transformative trade policy initiatives.

Before we discuss the work ahead, let’s begin by keeping our friends and colleagues in the Los Angeles area in our thoughts. One of the things I cherish most about NAFTZ is our strong network across the country. Please reach out to the companies, grantees, and service providers you know in the area. Our NAFTZ community is strong, and we should always stand together.

As we look ahead, we have many irons in the fire, but I’d like to highlight three near-term priorities:

Priority #1: Legislative Summit and FTZ Fundamentals Event on February 25-26 The Legislative Summit is one of my favorite events, offering a rare opportunity to be on the front lines of trade-related developments that shape the FTZ program. More importantly, it’s a chance to make our voices heard with key stakeholders: CBP, the Department of Commerce, and Congress. Last year, we met with nearly 40 Congressional offices during Hill Day. Thanks to the great work of Megan Costello, Melissa Irmen, and others, I’m confident we can exceed that number this year.

This year, we’re offering free registration for government affairs personnel accompanying an event registrant. With trade and government relations so closely intertwined, this promotion aims to bridge the gap for more effective advocacy efforts. I’m also excited about the Capitol Tour—a new addition to the event.

Our ask: Help us promote the event. If you know someone who might be interested in attending, invite them!

Priority #2: Membership I’m thrilled to share that, as of a few days ago, we have more members renewed as of January than ever before.  This is strong sign that interest in membership remains strong as we enter the new membership year.  Last year, Shannon Fura and Jeff Tafel announced a record membership of 826 during the annual conference. It’s wonderful to see this momentum continue into 2025, thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of Kris Wells, Membership Committee, and many of you.

The recently launched Tariff & Trade Rapid Response Team (TRRT) showcases the deep expertise within our membership across various sectors and roles. Additionally, the progress made by each of the five advocacy working groups is remarkable. These leaders (Danielle, Dallas, Jason R., Jason P., Amy, Robert, and Justin) are driving waves of new ideas and proactive actions that enhance our collective impact (an effect much broader than we can achieve by the EC or Board alone).

Our ask: Spread the word. Encourage members to engage more actively. Introduce newcomers to the FTZ program and show them how to get involved. And if you’re an active member, let us know how we can provide more value to you and your organization.

Priority #3: Tariff Developments With the constant flow of trade-related news, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As inauguration week is upon us, we’re all bracing for potential tariff changes. The TRRT is ready to spring into action, but it will take the NAFTZ village to proactively and comprehensively address all aspects of these new trade developments. If navigating new tariffs wasn’t tricky enough, keep in mind that we also have many other key advocacy initiatives that we’re fighting for: de minims parity, FTZ parity within USMCA, dedicated Congressional funding for CBP, and many more.

Our ask: Stay vigilant as we navigate this new chapter of trade and tariff developments.

Whether it’s our events, membership, or advocacy progress, I’m impressed by how NAFTZ is firing on all cylinders. This success is a testament to our incredible staff: Victoria for events, Kris for membership, Melissa for advocacy, and Jeff for being the calm and steady hand guiding us all.

My ask: Thank them for everything they do—and ask how you can support them!

If you’ve read this far, here’s your reward: a teaser! February 14th, a day long dreaded by NAFTZ Legislative Summit attendees wishing to celebrate Valentine’s Day, will now be known as National FTZ Day. Why February 14th? It’s of course a nod to our fundamental CBP form, the 214. From now on, 2/14 will also be #ILoveFTZs Day, a quirky celebration only a group like ours could pull off. Stay tuned for ways to show your love and admiration for the FTZ program and join in the fun!

Here's to a successful, rewarding, and adventurous 2025. Thanks for all that you do for the NAFTZ.

Hope to see you all soon,

James Grogan

NAFTZ Chair