“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Helen Keller’s words from her 1940 book, Let Us Have Faith, resonate with me today. They remind us that even amidst uncertainty, there’s room for growth, innovation, and progress.

This sentiment has been on my mind as I reflect on the trade implications of the recent U.S. presidential election, the evolving dynamics of global trade, and the intricate challenges facing international supply chains. Since 2018, we’ve witnessed a new era of trade policy, but the shifts we’re detecting now feel even more profound.

Yet, with Thanksgiving approaching, I’m reminded of the opportunities inherent in these “interesting times” and how much we have to be thankful for—even amidst chaos and uncertainty.

We’re fortunate to face unique challenges, ones that demand creative thinking, collaboration, and resilience. Here’s what I’m particularly grateful for:

• Our Unified Community: A well-organized and efficient association of hundreds of members committed to leveraging FTZs for economic development and competitive advantage.
• Our Exceptional Talent: The brilliant NAFTZ staff, expert advisors, and generous volunteers who help NAFTZ and the broader FTZ program tackle these challenges with expertise and determination. A special thank-you to all the Advocacy Working Group Chairs, who have particularly stepped up recently: Danielle Converse, Jason Ricketts, Amy Crosse, Jason Poyser, Robert Balli, and Dallas Hobgood.
• Our Collaborative Partnerships: Strong relationships with CBP, the FTZ Board and other agencies. Initiatives like the recently concluded Regional Exchange calls with CBP exemplify the power of collaboration, fostering deeper connections between NAFTZ members and CBP ports across the country. These efforts undoubtedly enable us to explore new possibilities for the FTZ program.

There’s no shortage of speculation about the future of trade—what tariffs might emerge, who will hold key positions in the new administration, and how companies should respond. While these uncertainties dominate the conversation, one thing is clear: FTZs remain one of the most adaptable tools in supply chain strategy.

FTZs offer unique opportunities to reimagine how we approach trade and logistics. When we stop viewing FTZs as they are and instead focus on what they could be, we unlock their full potential.

FTZs can drive supply chain efficiencies, provide logistics benefits, and offer state and local tax advantages. They can encourage reshoring, boost American exports, and incentivize investments in distribution, manufacturing, and supply chain activities within the U.S. This is about much more than customs procedures; it’s about strengthening the American economy, creating jobs, and building a foundation for long-term growth.

These objectives align seamlessly with the goals of both the prior and incoming administrations. As we look ahead, let’s embrace this moment to share the FTZ story within our communities and companies and propel the program into the future.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what matters most: family, friends, and the things that bring us joy. From a professional perspective, it’s the opportunities that lie within challenges. Together, we can seize them and turn this era of change into one of progress and innovation.