NORTH PORT — The city hopes to gain a presence in the Latin American market, thanks to a pair of trips to South America by North Port Economic Development Manager Allan Lane aimed at spurring trade with Panama and Brazil.

In September 2010, Lane went on an export trade mission to Panama City, Panama, that was the first trip he’s made to promote the city on an international level. There was a contingent of about 20 economic-development officials on the trip, including officials from Sarasota County, the Port of Manatee and representatives from several companies in the area that were looking for business and trade opportunities with Panama.