Well, in fairness, James would show more trust for his implied childhood caketakers, than a young Gym Leader whom he's known on-screen for only a few times. I think it's a more trust ratio, if anything. And, yes, I've, too, wondered why Chime never mentioned since. From the BF OP, the writers haven't forgotten it (compared to, say, Dustox), so I'm wondering, "what's going on?"
Also, I think the last official trade was the one where James gave up his Victreebel (I forget the title, at the moment). The Magikarp salesman had a portable Trade machine on him. Not nearly as large/clunky as the one seen on "Battle Abroad the St. Anne." Either way, it's been a while.