Leila Aridi Afas and Evelyn Suarez

Leila Aridi Afas has more than 15 years’ experience in international trade and investment, project development and finance, government relations and strategic communications. She proudly serves as Toyota’s Director of International Public Policy, where she collaborates with the company’s external affairs and corporate strategy teams to develop and advocate positions on global issues. She also provides insight on geopolitical trends and market developments. Prior to joining Toyota, Ms. Afas was appointed by President Obama to support the National Export Initiative’s goals of doubling U.S. exports in five years and creating two million American jobs. The views expressed in this article are her own. You may follow her on Twitter @TheTradeLady./ Ms. Suarez is an experienced customs and international trade lawyer with a special focus on import regulation as well as on anti-corruption and trade policy issues. She assists international clients in these uncertain times with strategic planning and compliance requirements. Her practice includes administrative, regulatory, legislative and litigation matters for global companies that are involved in importing, exporting, transportation, logistics, and customs brokerage. She can be reached via e-mail at esuarez@suarezfirm.com and at 202.552.0310.