SelectFlorida has officially launched a new international trade development office in Milan, strengthening the state’s global footprint and advancing ties with Italy. The Milan office marks Florida’s 18th international location across 16 countries and delivers on Governor Ron DeSantis’s pledge, made during his November 2023 meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, to establish a permanent presence in Italy.
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly highlighted the strategic importance of the move: “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has made international engagement a central pillar of our economic growth strategy. Establishing a permanent presence in Milan, Italy’s economic powerhouse, will significantly expand Florida’s capacity to attract high-quality foreign direct investment, promote world-class exports and create new international opportunities for small and emerging businesses across the state.”
Interim SelectFlorida President Matt Swanson emphasized the long-term potential of this step. “Italy is a critical market in our international trade portfolio and this office represents our long-term commitment to deepening those ties,” he said. “Through this new presence, we will cultivate high-impact partnerships, fuel strategic investment and create opportunities that support job creation and economic growth across Florida.”
SelectFlorida Board Member and JAXPORT executive Nick Primrose noted the office builds on recent high-level engagement: “Building on last year’s trade mission with Governor DeSantis, today marks a significant step forward as we open Florida’s first trade office in Italy. This milestone underscores our commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and opens new pathways for investment, innovation, and shared prosperity.”
The Milan office will serve as a hub for expanding Florida–Italy commerce, supporting Italian firms seeking U.S. growth while guiding Florida’s small businesses into European markets. With bilateral trade spanning aerospace, logistics, defense and life sciences, and record $1.9 billion in export sales in FY 2024–2025, the new office is expected to deepen cooperation in sectors driving sustainable growth and high-skilled employment on both sides.
