Message from the Mayor
Economic development is a vital component of Broward County government. Bringing new business to Broward County and working to maintain and grow businesses that are already here is a priority.
The Broward County Office of Economic Development (OED) has developed an overall economic development strategy that incorporates international trade. The goal is to develop business relationships and partnerships abroad that will create economic opportunities here at home.
Over the past five years the Mayor's office, working with our Office of Economic Development, the state and our local business partners have reached out globally with economic trade missions to Mexico, Spain, Germany, United Kingdom, Scotland, Canada, China, India, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Brazil, Chile, South Africa, Ghana, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Israel.
When it comes to international trade, Broward County has much to offer.
Strategically located in the center of the South Florida region, we are one of the world's leading international gateways for trade and commerce.
Port Everglades is the 11th largest container port in the United States and is poised to become the world's top cruise port within the next five years with confirmation that Royal Caribbean International, a cruise brand owned and operated by Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., will be homeporting its two new 5,400-passenger "Project Genesis" vessels in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is one of the fastest-growing airports in the country and the 2nd largest carrier of international passengers in Florida. With over 700 flights a day, FLL offers international service to Canada, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, Latin America, South America and non-stop service to more than 55 cities in the United States.
Broward County is a multi-cultural, multi-lingual county with residents and visitors from all over the world. According to the 2000 census, nearly 30 percent of our population spoke a second language. Recently, the Board of County Commissioners established the Center for the Performing Arts as the "Cultural Embassy" for Broward County. With the Broward Center for Performing Arts and the OED working together, along with our Broward County Cultural Division, the County will expand its culture to commerce relations.
To further Broward County's commitment to international trade, the Board of County Commissioners approved an International Trade and Investment Policy Plan that promotes the growth of international business, foreign direct investment, and increased trade activity through coordination and partnerships with public and private organizations in the region, state and nation.
We are a progressive county and provide the ideal environment for locating or expanding a business.
As Broward County Mayor, I am committed to pursuing new global markets and continuing the strong international business relationships that we have successfully worked to develop.
Please contact the Broward County Office of Economic Development to find out the many opportunities that are available for new and existing businesses.
We are a business friendly county and we have set our goals high in order to help you achieve yours!
Sincerely,
Lois Wexler
Mayor, Broward County
