Palmetto, FL – Port Manatee is developing an international intermodal trade hub to assist companies from throughout the world in advancing production, distribution and other business activities, including innovative global supply chain solutions.

“As the closest US deep-water seaport to the expanding Panama Canal, Port Manatee is drawing increased interest,” said Carlos Buqueras, Port Manatee’s executive director.

The new hub, he said, “will provide locally and internationally headquartered companies alike with a landing platform for capitalizing upon Port Manatee’s unique position in the global marketplace.”

Companies from across Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia are expected to be among those companies with operations in the new Port Manatee Intermodal Center.

Firms currently engaged in – or seeking to take part in – trade with Cuba are to be a “particular focus,” said Buqueras, adding that both outbound and inbound overseas trade mission programs are being organized “to further boost the effectiveness” of the new hub.

“The international trade hub will be good for global commerce and good for Port Manatee, while enhancing economic benefits to Manatee County,” Buqueras said.

Port Manatee is a multipurpose deepwater seaport at the entrance to Tampa Bay, Florida, that serves bulk, breakbulk, container, heavy-lift, project and general cargo customers.

06/11/2014