Canaveral Port Authority and Volusia County partner up to promote Logistic and Trade Advantages to help attract new business.

Written by Anthony Bicy

Belden Communications News

Volusia County’s Division of Economic Development and the Canaveral Port Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen global trade efforts to attract more jobs to the region. The agreement will bring more Florida-bound cargo to the area by promoting geographical and business advantages.

“This collaborative effort with Volusia County provides an opportunity to attract more global cargo operations to our Port,” said Captain John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “Strategic partnerships like this can attract new business, create jobs and promote economic development for the Central Florida region.”

According to a release, Volusia County and Port Canaveral maintain a Foreign Trade Zone benefiting the Central Florida region. Under the Memorandum of Understanding, the Canaveral Port Authority and Volusia County’s Division of Economic Development will work collaboratively to attract new business development initiatives that require a deep-water port and access to the maritime shipping industry, which the Port can provide. Such cooperation may involve participating in outreach events with organizations and potential business entities to promote logistics, transportation, and manufacturing benefits. The Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners approved the Memorandum at the Commission’s regular monthly meeting in January.

“As we continue to invest in our state’s transportation system, including our ports, roads, and rail, it’s rewarding to see those investments being put to work to benefit communities across the county and regional lines. This type of teamwork helps market Florida’s world-class infrastructure to the world, bringing more jobs and businesses to our state while maximizing the return on the investments we’ve made for the citizens of Florida,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin J. Thibault.

Port Canaveral representatives and County officials will meet regularly to discuss businesses looking to expand or locate in Volusia County. However, there is no commitment of Canaveral funds under the understanding.

“Volusia County Division of Economic Development is excited to partner with Port Canaveral. The partnership will benefit new and existing Volusia businesses as a conduit to new markets.” Volusia County Economic Development Director Helga van Eckert commented.

Established in 1987, Port Canaveral’s Foreign Trade Zone #136 offers advantages to businesses dealing in international trade, such as free-trade cost discounts, duty-free storage, and jet fuel for international flights. The foreign trade zone concept encourages international trade by American companies and preserves American jobs.