Freeport, Bahamas – Cuba has a nominal GDP rate of $71.3 billion. Total exports in 2010 were $3.1 billion, whilst imports totalled $9.6 billion. As Cuba looks to bolster trade ties with The Bahamas, Freeport expects to play a contributory role as a vital transportation provider.
This and other matters formed the basis of discussions as executives of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA) warmly welcomed His Excellency Ernesto Soberon Guzman, Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of The Republic of Cuba during an official visit to Grand Bahama.
Along with tourism, other important industries in Cuba’s economy are sugar, petroleum, tobacco, construction, nickel and steel. “Economic reforms are evolving with changes in key areas, therefore we are very favourable to concrete and real possibilities of us doing business together,” expressed GBPA Chairman, Ian Fair.
Ambassador Guzman was similarly disposed. “Prior to the 1980’s Cuba enjoyed a very special relationship with the Soviet Union which was very helpful to us. Now we are changing and looking to diversify,” he expressed. “We are trying to adapt our system to the world because we are not isolated in this world.”
Cognizant of the historical relationship between both countries, the group was eager to discuss potential areas for future growth such as agriculture, construction, natural medicine products, and other commodities. A GBPA delegation is expected to visit Cuba’s international trade fair slated to be held in November to explore additional opportunities.
According to GBPA President, Ian Rolle, they look forward to further dialogue and an exchange of ideas on various matters. “Freeport as a location probably has more opportunity to do business with Cuba than anywhere else in The Bahamas,” he noted. “We enjoy diplomatic relations and will diligently work together for the mutual benefit of both countries.”
The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited
GB PORT AUTHORITY EXECUTIVES MEET WITH CUBAN AMBASSADOR: During his first official visit to Grand Bahama, Cuban Ambassador, HE Ernesto Soberon Guzman paid a courtesy call on executives of The Grand Bahama Port Authority, Limited (GBPA). Pictured (left to right): Deann Seymour, Chief Financial Officer, GBPA; Henry St. George, Vice President, GBPA; Ian Rolle, GBPA President; His Excellency Ernesto Soberon Guzman, Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of The Republic of Cuba; Ian Fair, GBPA Chairman; Sarah St. George, GBPA Vice Chairman; Ginger Moxey, Vice President, GBPA; and Arthur Jones, Vice President of Building & Development, GBPA.
