Miramar officials join trade mission to South Africa to expand global business opportunities

Commissioner Cherasard with Miramar and Broward County leaders in Cape Town_ South Africa
Commissioners Avril Cherasard and Carson “Eddy” Edwards participated in the Export Sales and Trade Mission to South Africa

Two Miramar city commissioners recently joined a multi-jurisdictional trade mission to South Africa aimed at strengthening international business ties and opening new markets for Florida companies, including small and emerging businesses based in Miramar.

Commissioners Avril Cherasard and Carson “Eddy” Edwards participated in the Export Sales and Trade Mission to South Africa from November 29 to December 6 as part of a delegation organized by SelectFlorida. They were joined by Broward County Commissioner Alexandra P. Davis and Paul Njoroge of the Miramar Economic Development Department.

The mission included official stops in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Nelson Mandela Bay, where delegates took part in commercial briefings, business matchmaking sessions, and meetings with government agencies, universities, and industry leaders. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral trade relationships and identifying opportunities for collaboration in innovation-driven sectors.

Officials said the trip highlighted South Africa’s role as a strategic entry point into broader African markets and its potential as a partner for Miramar’s growing entrepreneurial community.

“This mission represents a meaningful opportunity to open new doors for Miramar’s business community,” Cherasard said. “By strengthening ties with Africa, we are inviting innovation, trade, and investment that can empower our local entrepreneurs and stimulate long-term economic growth.”

According to the city, Miramar’s participation aligns with its broader economic development goals, including advancing international collaboration in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, and education; supporting entrepreneurship and small business growth; enhancing the global competitiveness of local companies; and promoting workforce development, job creation, and long-term investment.

City officials said the mission underscores Miramar’s commitment to working with regional and state partners to build international relationships that deliver lasting economic benefits for residents and businesses.