Panama bound, if the mission is trade

If cocktails at the U.S. Embassy in Panama strikes your fancy, or better yet, some one-on-one time with export-import businesses seeking trade opportunities, put Sept. 6-9 on your calendar.

The Manatee County Economic Development Council is leading an “Export Sales Mission” to Panama to drum up future business for the county and Port Manatee. The Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County is also coordinating the trade mission.

Fifteen selected manufacturers, distributors, exporters and service companies will make the trip. Interested businesses have until July 9 to submit a six-page application available on the EDC's Web site.

According to the application, company types best suited to the mission include wholesaling, warehousing and distribution; material handling equipment; telecommunications equipment; computers and peripherals; travel and tourism; air conditioning and refrigeration equipment; electric power systems; security and safety equipment; automotive parts and accessories; medical equipment; and the recreational boating and marine industry.

For more information, go to www.manateeedc.com/NewsList.aspx and select “EDC Trade Mission to Panama,” or contact Mission Director Lauren Kratsch at the EDC at (941) 748-4842, ext. 134, or at [email protected].