Port Manatee opens trade hub offices in Latin America, Europe

In an effort to expand the global presence of Port Manatee’s International Trade Hub, the seaport will open promotional offices in Colombia and Spain. 

"The opening of these two offices is a momentous step in connecting world markets and the dynamic business community of greater Manatee County and Southwest Florida," said Ivan Mutis, coordinator of the International Trade Hub at Port Manatee, in a press release. “The Latin American and European office presences perfectly complement the successful initiatives the trade hub has been advancing over the past five years."

Based at the Port Manatee Intermodal Center, the trade hub serves as a catalyst for introducing global companies to the business environment of greater Manatee County and Southwest Florida. Founded in 2014, the hub provides advice and support tools to local and global firms, assisting them with production, distribution and related activities, including development of innovative supply chain solutions.

The Latin American office in Medellin, Colombia, is led by Carolina Lopez, chief executive officer of Manatee Operator Consulting Group. The European location in Barcelona, Spain, is spearheaded by Peter Casanova, chief financial officer of Brosa Abagados y Economistas.

"The offices provide soft landing platforms in major global markets for leaders of businesses of Manatee County and all of Southwest Florida exploring opportunities in Latin America and Europe, respectively," said Carlos Buqueras, executive director of Port Manatee, said in a press release. "We already are making plans to further expand the global office presence of the International Trade Hub at Port Manatee. 

Port Manatee's short line directly connects to a CSX mainline.