Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Alexandra P. Davis
Department: County Commission
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO APPROVE international travel on behalf of the Broward County Board of County Commissioners to South Africa from November 29, 2025, to December 6, 2025, to participate in SelectFlorida’s Export Sales Mission for the purpose of promoting business, cultural and trade opportunities for Broward businesses.
Commissioner Davis serves as the Board’s representative to the Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE), the County’s annual conference showcasing Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County as a hub for global business and is working closely with staff, the local and international community to ensure a successful 10th Anniversary event.
SelectFlorida’s representative in South Africa is a regular FITCE attendee, and Commissioner Davis’s participation in the Mission will further strengthen engagement and enhance SelectFlorida’s partnership with FITCE.
By taking part in this mission Commissioner Davis aims to ensure that Broward County is represented on the global stage with authenticity, inclusivity and vision, while delivering meaningful economic benefits back to our communities. (Commissioner Davis) (Deferred from September 4, 2025 - Item No. 38)
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Why Action is Necessary
Prior Board approval is required for the referenced travel.
What Action Accomplishes
Approves travel to participate in SelectFlorida’s Export Sales Mission in South Africa.
Goal Related Icon(s)
☒County Commission
☐Go Green
☐MAP Broward
Previous Action Taken
Summary Explanation/Background
This item supports the Board’s Value of “Ensuring economic opportunities and a sustainable economy with an emphasis on Broward’s lower and middle class.”
Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis seeks approval to travel from November 29, 2025, to December 6, 2025, on behalf of the Board to participate in a trade mission and business development trip to South Africa. This mission is part of SelectFlorida’s Export Sales Mission (“Mission”) initiative.
Broward County (“County”) enjoys unique advantages that position it as a global hub for both domestic and international trade opportunities. Participation in the Mission will support ongoing efforts to strengthen the local business economy, sustain low unemployment, and expand international trade opportunities.
The Mission will also facilitate the development of relationships with South African government officials, local chambers of commerce, industry associations, and private sector partners. It will serve as a platform to promote Florida-made products and services in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
Commissioner Davis serves as the Board’s representative to the Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE), the County’s annual conference showcasing Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County as a hub for global business. Held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale | Broward County Convention Center, FITCE connects local and international companies with government leaders, trade experts, and delegations from more than 70 countries. The event draws over 2,000 participants each year and features discussions on trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
SelectFlorida’s representative in South Africa is a regular FITCE attendee, and Commissioner Davis’s participation in the Mission will further strengthen engagement and enhance SelectFlorida’s partnership with FITCE.
Commissioner Davis, along with other representatives from Broward County, will participate in business matchmaking meetings for Florida exporters, one-on-one business meetings with potential South African partners, and networking opportunities to foster international business relationships. South Africa represents one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa and presents significant opportunities for County businesses in sectors such as information technology, aviation, energy, and health care.
Source of Additional Information
Yashoda Lochan, Chief of Staff, 954-357-7007
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
The approximate cost of travel and lodging is $5,000.