Port aims to expand ties with Colombia

PALMETTO — A Colombian trade official recently visited Port Manatee to discuss expanding commercial ties between the country and port.

ProColombia USA General Deputy Director for the U.S. Juan Barrera spoke at a Manatee County Port Authority meeting and a luncheon hosted by the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp.

“We see significant opportunity for growing trade between our nation and Port Manatee,” says Barrera in a statement. “Both import and export opportunities exist for businesses in Manatee County and beyond, and we look forward to exploring these mutually beneficial possibilities.”

Barrera's role with the Colombian trade agency includes serving as director of its food, beverage and floral efforts.

Colombia now ranks No. 9 for exports, propelled by fertilizer, and No. 16 for imports, also led by fertilizer, among Port Manatee trade partner countries.

“Not only do we anticipate building upon the fertilizer trade, but we expect to grow our commercial links with Colombia in other commodity sectors as well,” says Manatee County Port Authority Chairwoman Vanessa Baugh in the press release.

Colombia has the third-largest economy in South America. Brazil and Argentina have a greater gross domestic product.

Representatives from Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic also recently spoke at Manatee County Port Authority meetings. Presentations by trade leaders from Guatemala and Turkey are scheduled for the coming months.