Governor Ron DeSantis announced plans to open a new SelectFlorida international trade development office in Italy in 2025. The announcement was made during his visit to Viareggio, Italy, where he met with leaders from prominent shipyards including Sanlorenzo, Benetti, and Overmarine. These shipyards have existing projects or presence in Florida cities such as Pensacola, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.
The establishment of the new office aims to provide information and assistance to Italian companies interested in operating in Florida. "Florida is greatly expanding its Italian presence," said Governor DeSantis. "Our brick-and-mortar presence here will continue the work of this trade mission in bringing more businesses, investment, and trade to Florida."
The partnership between Florida and Italy covers several industries like transportation and logistics, aerospace and aviation, military and defense, and life sciences. In the past year, major industrial traded goods included yachts and other vessels, civilian aircraft parts, cars, and pharmaceuticals.
"Under the Governor’s leadership this mission continues to be a success," stated FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly. He highlighted the significance of the yacht building industry for both regions: "Viareggio is the epicenter of the world yacht building industry...today we strengthened this connection."
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue expressed enthusiasm for expanding economic growth through strong partnerships between Florida's seaports and those in Italy. “FDOT appreciates the leadership...to help show Florida seaports are open for business,” he said.