In the labyrinthine world of international trade, a quiet revolution is brewing. Former Big Tech engineers Sam Basu and Arushi Vashist have launched Amari AI, a startup that’s bringing cutting-edge technology to an industry still largely dependent on fax machines and manila folders.

Basu’s journey began after quitting his Google engineering role in early 2023. A chance conversation about customs paperwork led him to discover an industry ripe for technological disruption. By cold-calling customs brokers, he uncovered a world where complex international trade regulations are navigated using outdated methods.

Amari AI aims to solve two critical challenges in the customs brokerage sector. First, the startup wants to modernize an industry that has been slow to adopt new technologies. Traditional optical character recognition software has limitations, but Amari’s AI can automate data entry and paperwork more efficiently.

Second, the startup is addressing the complexity introduced by volatile trade policies. With President Donald Trump’s unpredictable trade approach creating significant challenges, customs brokers need agile solutions to help their clients navigate sudden regulatory changes.

The startup’s AI models are trained on over one million shipping documents, allowing them to continuously monitor and adapt to changing trade rules. This approach helps brokers quickly understand how new regulations might impact their clients’ shipments.

Chris Bachinski, CEO of GHY International, an early Amari AI adopter, recognizes the transformative potential of this technology. While some employees initially worried about job displacement, Bachinski sees AI as an opportunity to focus more on customer relationships and complex compliance work.

With an impressive $4.5 million in funding from First Round Capital and Pear VC, Amari AI has already helped move over $15 billion worth of goods. The startup represents a promising example of how artificial intelligence can breathe new life into traditional industries, making complex processes more efficient and adaptable.

As trade continues to evolve in an increasingly complex global landscape, technologies like Amari AI will likely play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate regulatory challenges and maintain smooth international operations.