International Trade Council of Greater Kansas City upcoming events

Decoupling Dependence: Vetting Suppliers Beyond China (Wednesday, July 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Decoupling Dependence

Vetting Suppliers beyond China

As global supply chains continue to shift amid geopolitical uncertainty, tariffs, and evolving trade relationships, businesses can no longer afford to rely on a single sourcing strategy. Building proactive partnerships across Asia and creating diversified supplier options has become a business necessity for resilience, flexibility, and long-term growth. Join us for a practical discussion focused on evaluating suppliers beyond China and reducing risk in emerging sourcing markets.

Topics Include:

Types of Due Diligence & When to Use Them
Learn the different levels of supplier vetting, from basic screening to enhanced investigations, and when each approach is appropriate.
Fraud & Corruption Considerations
Understand common compliance risks, red flags, and best practices for protecting your business and reputation.
Country-Specific Due Diligence Insights
Explore key considerations and business realities when working with suppliers in:
- India
- Vietnam
- Thailand

This session is ideal for procurement professionals, supply chain leaders, importers, compliance teams, and companies expanding sourcing operations throughout Asia.

Wednesday, July 29

10:00 AM

Online Event

Our Expert:

Kyle Freeman

Partner, Dezan Shira & Associates (An Ascentium Company)

kyle.freeman@dezshira.com

Kyle Freeman is a Partner at Dezan Shira & Associates (An Ascentium Company), and leads the International Business Advisory team as well as the firm's North American client services desk in Asia. He advises clients on market entry strategy, corporate structuring and establishment, and related tax and legal issues concerning investment in Southeast Asia, China, and Hong Kong.

Prior to joining Dezan Shira & Associates, Kyle worked in government relations and China trade policy for various public and private organizations. His work included assisting in high-level, US-China bilateral trade dialogues and organizing public-private cooperation programs to promote US and foreign investment in China.

Kyle has a master's degree in economics and international trade from the University of International Business and Economics, in Beijing, and dual bachelor's degrees in economics and global affairs from George Mason University, in Washington D.C. He has also been a visiting fellow at the University of Oxford and the Beijing Language Culture University.

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Current Connections Networking (Saturday, August 01, 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Next Gen Networking Event

Join us for drinks, snacks, and great conversation at our Next Gen Networking Event! Connect with current international trade enthusiasts and grow your network in a relaxed, fun setting.

Bring a guest and enjoy an hour of networking before the fun continues! After you register, you’ll receive a link to purchase optional tickets to the match at CPKC Stadium, where the Kansas City Current take on Angel City FC.

Make new connections, catch up with familiar faces, and keep the energy going with the Next Gen committee!

Saturday, August 1
⏰ 4:00–5:00 PM

Port KC

110 Berkley Plaza, Kansas City, MO 64120

Free to ITC Members

$5 to Non members

Be sure and bring a guest!

Not wanting to pay for parking at the stadium? Check this link for additional transportation options.

Global Tradewins® Motor Mayhem (Thursday, August 27, 2026)

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Global TradeWins®

MOTOR MAYHEM

Step into the fast-paced world of international business through Global TradeWins®: Motor Mayhem, ITCGKC's signature interactive trade simulation. More than a seminar or presentation, this hands-on experience places participants inside a fictional global automotive marketplace where every decision can impact success.

Upon arrival, you'll be assigned to a company team and work alongside fellow participants to navigate the challenges of international trade. Together, your company will evaluate opportunities, negotiate deals, manage logistics, respond to unexpected disruptions, and compete against other companies in a dynamic global marketplace.

As the simulation unfolds, you'll gain practical experience with key international business concepts including Incoterms, payment methods, supply chain management, risk assessment, cultural considerations, regulatory compliance, and international negotiations. No prior trade experience is required—just a willingness to collaborate, think strategically, and learn by doing.

Whether you're a business professional, student, educator, or simply curious about how global commerce works, Global TradeWins® offers an engaging, team-based learning experience that brings international trade to life. By the end of the program, you'll have a deeper understanding of the complexities behind global transactions and the critical decisions that drive success in international business.

Thursday, August 27th

2:00-5:00 PM

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation Conference Center

4801 Rockhill Rd

Kansas City, MO 64110

Brookside Room

ITCGKC Members: Free
Non-Members: $15

Interested in attending as a guest? Reach out to an ITCGKC board member to request a complimentary registration coupon code before signing up.

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