Port Manatee and Colombia are looking to expand commercial ties following a visit to the port by Juan Barrera, the general deputy director for the United States of ProColombia USA. Barrera spoke at the April 20 meeting of the Manatee County Port Authority meeting and attended a luncheon hosted by the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation. Among Port Manatee trade partner countries, Colombia currently ranks No. 9 for exports, propelled by fertilizer, and No. 16 for imports, also led by fertilizer. Barrera said that Colombian leaders "see significant opportunity for growing trade between our nation and Port Manatee," according to a press release.