Companies and compliance teams must recognize the regulatory risks associated with aspects of maritime-based international trade: the vessels, the shipping routes, the ports and cities along the shipping routes and the goods traded. A robust maritime trade compliance program will help thwart criminal activity before a problem develops. International traders can mitigate their risks by avoiding persons and entities who are involved in financial crimes or in direct violation of international trade laws. To do that, it helps to recognize and monitor the typical components of illicit trade.