Charlotte County Florida Logistics: How Global Trade with Italy Opens New Doors for Growth
October 13th, 2025
Introduction: 
—And Why It Matters for Charlotte County
—And Why It Matters for Charlotte CountyWhen Florida leaders travel overseas, the ripple effect often starts right here at home.
This month, the State of Florida announced a new chapter in global trade—one that could open fresh opportunities for Charlotte County’s logistics, advanced manufacturing, and transportation industries.
Led by Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly and Secretary of Transportation Jared W. Perdue, a statewide delegation traveled to Milan and Genoa to deepen ties with Italy, one of Florida’s top European trading partners.
Their mission included three key milestones:
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Opening the SelectFlorida Milan Office
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Signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Lombardy Region
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Participating in the Italy–Florida Working Group on Transportation and Infrastructure
At first glance, it’s a high-level diplomatic move. But in reality, it’s a gateway for counties like Charlotte—where logistics and manufacturing are rapidly becoming economic anchors.
Charlotte County Florida Logistics: A Growing Gateway for Global Trade
Charlotte County may not yet rival Miami’s skyline or Tampa’s ports—but its position is quietly powerful.
Sitting between two major metros and connected by Interstate 75, Punta Gorda Airport, and deep-water port access, the county serves as a natural hub for freight, distribution, and advanced manufacturing.
Every global trade deal Florida secures brings new possibilities for local businesses. When Italian companies look to expand into the U.S., they’ll find affordable industrial space, skilled labor, and multimodal access right here.
That means more shipments through the region’s corridors, more jobs in warehouses and trucking, and more investments flowing into local supply chains.
Charlotte County’s logistics ecosystem—from warehousing to transportation to air cargo—is positioned to scale as these global connections strengthen.
How the SelectFlorida Milan Office Strengthens Global Connections
The opening of SelectFlorida’s new Milan office marks a significant milestone in Florida’s international outreach.
This new hub will act as a bridge for Italian firms seeking partnerships, expansion sites, and investment opportunities in Florida.
Why does this matter to Charlotte County?
Because SelectFlorida’s mission focuses on diversifying trade and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to regions beyond major metros.
Italian manufacturers specializing in aerospace parts, marine technologies, or green infrastructure could find the lower operating costs and central location of Charlotte County particularly appealing.
Picture this: a marine equipment supplier from Genoa wants a U.S. base near Gulf ports and highways. Punta Gorda’s industrial parks and Charlotte County’s pro-business environment could check every box.
Florida–Lombardy Economic Partnership: A Model for Regional Growth
The newly signed MOU between Florida and Lombardy cements a partnership rooted in innovation.
Lombardy, home to Milan, is Italy’s industrial heart—renowned for manufacturing excellence, biotechnology, and design.
By linking directly with Florida, it creates mutual access to advanced manufacturing and research networks.
For Charlotte County, this could mean technology transfer, joint ventures, and new supply-chain opportunities in precision engineering, defense tech, and medical devices—industries already taking root locally.
Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly said it best:
“By forging strong relationships with Italian industry leaders and research institutions, we create meaningful pathways for Florida’s small and emerging businesses to grow, scale, and compete internationally.”
That vision fits seamlessly with Charlotte County’s push to expand its advanced manufacturing footprint.
Ports, Planes, and Potential: The Italy–Florida Working Group’s Impact on Local Logistics
When Florida’s Italy–Florida Working Group met in Genoa, the discussion centered on one theme: connectivity.
Representatives from the Florida Ports Council, Assoporti (Association of Italian Ports), and Assologistica (Italian Association of Logistics and Supply Chain Management) explored ways to streamline global shipping, strengthen port infrastructure, and modernize logistics systems.
These alliances ripple outward.
Every upgrade to statewide port systems—from Jacksonville to Port Manatee—enhances the entire logistics web, including routes that serve Charlotte County’s distribution centers and trucking firms.
The result? Faster delivery times, improved export capacity, and growing demand for warehousing and support services in the county.
As Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue noted:
“The coalition we have formed between Florida Seaports and Italian Seaports will further strengthen this relationship and pave the way for future economic growth.”
How Small and Emerging Businesses Can Benefit from Global Trade
Global trade may sound like big business—but small companies stand to gain the most.
When new trade offices open, they provide direct access to export assistance, trade missions, and buyer matchmaking programs.
A Charlotte County manufacturer of marine hardware, for instance, could now connect with Italian distributors through SelectFlorida’s network.
A Punta Gorda logistics company could partner with European firms seeking a U.S. delivery base.
By leveraging these relationships, local entrepreneurs can expand internationally without leaving Florida.
Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Development in Charlotte County
Economic partnerships mean little without talent to sustain them.
Fortunately, Charlotte County’s workforce pipeline is ready.
Programs at Charlotte Technical College, Florida SouthWestern State College, and FGCU’s Babcock Ranch campus align perfectly with the skill sets needed for global trade and manufacturing.
Courses in digital design at Charlotte Technical College and supply chain/logistics at Florida SouthWestern State College—plus mechatronics programs at nearby institutions—are creating the next generation of technicians and logistics professionals. As new companies invest in the county, these programs ensure that residents are prepared for high-wage, future-ready careers.
This blend of education and opportunity forms the foundation for long-term prosperity.
Charlotte County’s Strategic Location: A Magnet for Logistics and Investment
Few regions can match Charlotte County’s location advantages.
From Punta Gorda Airport’s cargo capabilities to quick access to Gulf Coast ports and major interstates, it’s a sweet spot for distribution networks.
For companies seeking warehouse space near Fort Myers or Port Charlotte, the cost-per-square-foot remains among the most competitive in South Florida.
Add in the area’s quality of life—affordable housing, coastal lifestyle, and expanding workforce—and it becomes clear why more logistics and manufacturing firms are setting up shop here.
Future Outlook: Strengthening the Logistics Chain from Charlotte County to Europe
In 2024, Florida’s total merchandise trade with Italy reached approximately $4.34 billion, making Italy the state’s 15th-largest trading partner by goods. As SelectFlorida expands its international presence (e.g. new Milan office), that number could increase — which presents an opportunity for Charlotte County to play a larger role in import/export logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
Over the next decade, expect increased demand for:
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Warehouse development and trucking facilities
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Advanced cargo handling and marine equipment
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Supply-chain technology partnerships
Charlotte County’s central location makes it an essential link in Florida’s growing global logistics chain.
Local Voices: How Partnerships Abroad Boost Opportunity at Home
Economic growth feels abstract until you see it up close.
Local logistics managers, business owners, and educators know the difference it makes when new markets open up.
Every trade office abroad represents real contracts, local hires, and infrastructure investments at home.
Regional leaders often point out that when Florida wins, Charlotte County benefits. This latest international partnership proves that point again.
Why Logistics Growth Fuels Community Prosperity
When trade expands, communities thrive.
Logistics growth fuels tax revenue that supports roads, schools, and workforce training.
It creates a ripple effect—where one new warehouse means dozens of new jobs, more lunch orders at local restaurants, and a stronger local economy overall.
Charlotte County’s long-term plan aligns perfectly with this vision: attract investment, grow talent, and connect globally while keeping its small-town character intact.
FAQs
What is Charlotte County Florida logistics?
It’s the network of warehouses, transport routes, and manufacturing hubs that move goods in and out of Southwest Florida efficiently.
How will Florida’s trade mission to Italy benefit Charlotte County?
It expands global connections that attract new business investment, create jobs, and strengthen supply-chain opportunities locally.
What industries could see growth from the Florida-Italy partnership?
Advanced manufacturing, aerospace, marine technology, defense, and logistics are all expected to gain momentum.
What role does Punta Gorda Airport play in logistics?
PGD supports cargo movement, business travel, and serves as a gateway for companies shipping across the state and beyond.
How do local schools support workforce development?
Charlotte Technical College and FSW train students in logistics, engineering, and automation—skills needed for expanding industries.
Why are foreign direct investments (FDI) important?
They bring capital, innovation, and new partnerships to local economies, boosting competitiveness and employment.
Where can small businesses get help to export?
SelectFlorida offers programs, trade missions, and consulting for small companies looking to enter international markets.
How does logistics growth affect residents?
It leads to higher-wage jobs, improved infrastructure, and a more resilient local economy.
Conclusion: From Punta Gorda to Milan—A New Era of Connectivity
From the ports of Genoa to the warehouses of Punta Gorda, the bridge between Italy and Florida just got stronger.
For Charlotte County, that means opportunity.
As global trade expands, so will the county’s role in connecting people, products, and prosperity.
Florida’s international strategy is no longer just about large metros. It’s about leveraging every region’s strength, and Charlotte County’s logistics sector is proving it’s ready to carry that momentum forward.
