19NOVEMBER 2025In an exclusive interview with Industry Outlook Magazine, Sanjay J. Patel, Managing Director of Tembo Global Industries, shares how trading companies can tackle supply chain disruptions during economic uncertainties, especially global crises. He also touches upon the accounting side of the import/export businesses. He has around 38 years of rich and vast experience in trading, wholesaling, exports and imports of engineering goods, pipes, fittings and general items.INDUSTRY INSIGHTSSTREAMLINING PROCUREMENT AND TAXATION STRATEGIES IN THE TRADING INDUSTRYWhat are the most common taxation challenges faced by trading businesses, especially those engaged in imports and exports?One of the primary concerns is navigating complex customs regulations and tariffs, which vary across countries. Ensuring compliance with varying VAT and sales tax rules is also challenging, especially when dealing with cross-border transactions, as export exemptions and import VAT requirements differ by jurisdiction. Transfer pricing is another issue, as it is crucial to adhere to international standards for intercompany transactions to avoid audits and penalties. Currency fluctuations further complicate tax planning, as exchange rate changes impact both the valuation of goods and the tax treatment of profits. Additionally, double taxation, changes in trade policies, and new tariffs can create unexpected costs. Managing comprehensive documentation and staying updated on anti-avoidance rules are also key to avoiding penalties and maintaining compliance with global tax standards.How do global supply chain disruptions impact procurement strategies, and what steps can businesses take to mitigate risks?Global supply chain disruptions have significantly im-pacted procurement strategies, causing delays, increased costs, and uncertainty in inventory management. These disruptions often result from factors like geopolitical ten-sions, natural disasters, or logistics bottlenecks, forcing businesses to reassess sourcing and inventory strategies. To mitigate risks, companies can diversify their supplier base across different regions, reducing reliance on a single source. Strengthening relationships with key suppliers and adopting more flexible contract terms also helps manage uncertainty. Investing in technology, such as supply chain management software, can enhance visibility and improve decision-making. Additionally, maintaining buffer stock and exploring alternative transportation routes or meth-ods can help minimize the impact of disruptions on pro-duction schedules and customer fulfillment.Sanjay J. Patel,Managing DirectorSanjay J. Patel, Managing Director, Tembo Global Industries
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