Are both regions exponentially influencing each other? Florida’s economic landscape is deeply intertwined with Latin America and the Caribbean. Each part of the United States moves the global economy. However, the previous three have a relationship that has transformed the state.
Today, Florida is a global hub for trade, logistics, and surplus goods.
The main reason lies in Latin America’s demand for surplus materials. Then, in Florida’s strategic position as a gateway for them.
This has created a thriving ecosystem for businesses, including the one from our clients at Coastal Surplus Solutions
Before you dive into a new project or business idea, take the time to understand how Latin America drives Florida’s surplus economy. It isn’t just a small improvement, but rather exponential.
Then, discover how we help you capitalize on this dynamic.
Florida’s Trade Dominance in Latin America
Florida’s geographic and strategic location has helped it build strong ties to Latin America. clothing, industrial machinery, raw materials, and more. The number of products that have been moved through these ties is uncountable.
The region with this relationship has made it the top U.S. state for trade with Latin America, with skyrocketing statistics around:
- $196.9 billion in total merchandise trade only in 2024. Compared to 2023, this increased by 3.1%.
- 5% of Florida’s total trade involves the region, surpassing any other region the state does business.
- 2% of all U.S. trade with Latin America flows through Florida alone, including 35.2% of U.S. exports to the region.
Most commodities or surplus items involve long-term investments. Instead of clothing, shoes, and similar surplus goods, people go for higher-ticket goods as well.
The top items include aircraft and spacecraft parts. Others are computers and electronics, motor vehicles, and industrial machinery. This is according to Select Florida’s reports.
Why Latin America Relies on Florida’s Surplus Market
Is it all about the location and population? These two elements have boosted other aspects that have made the surplus market grow. However, other benefits influence the trade between both places.
1- Cost-effective sourcing
Latin American businesses need affordable options, but without neglecting quality.
Options offered in Florida present a great opportunity for them. Since most bulk buyers care about balancing quality with costs and logistics, it is only natural.
Surplus goods in the region fulfill Latin America’s demands, and the market provides access to:
- Discounted equipment, electronics, and construction materials—primarily.
- Overstock retail goods, from apparel to home appliances.
- Refurbished machinery and vehicles, which are 30-50% cheaper than new.
Other industries have been joining the market as several manufacturers have moved locations to the state. This leads businesses and individuals in Latin America to try new niches or move their investment to other areas.
It boosts your opportunities as a surplus goods seller and brings recurring business.
2- Logistical advantages
Florida’s infrastructure supports efficient surplus trade. This is supported by the Florida Ports Council Trade and Logistics’ study.
Thinking about the local market itself, you can see it is prone to having more bulk buyers and new businesses. Maybe individuals are sourcing products for their own use at lower costs.
In terms of a trade market level, Florida is perfect for the partnered region:
- 15 commercial airports and 14 deepwater ports handle 40% of U.S. exports to the Caribbean. Thanks to the multiple options, logistics costs are also lower compared to other states in the U.S.
- Short shipping times are also possible. This helps reduce expenses, and deadlines are easily fulfilled for businesses and buyers.
3- Economic complementarity
Construction and manufacturing sectors rely on Florida’s critical surplus inputs.
For instance, Chile requires aviation parts to boost its mining industry.
Meanwhile, Colombia sources medical equipment and telecom gear to support its expansions.
Other countries in the region focus on construction materials and energy infrastructure supplies.
Coastal Surplus Solutions: Bridging Florida and Latin America
Our company simplifies surplus trade with Latin America by offering:
- Vetted surplus inventory and goods in over 100+ categories. We connect you with discounted goods so you can be part of the businesses contributing to trade and part of the massive economy.
- Custom logistics solutions. We leverage our partnerships with Florida ports and freight forwarders to reduce costs and delays. This affects your products and how they are shipped to the region.
- Market intelligence. We have the experience, insights on tariff changes, and understand demand trends.
Businesses that partner with our experts gain a competitive edge. Not only in one area like costs but also through streamlined logistics, and regional market expertise.
Regardless of the industry or surplus goods, we source them, organize logistics, and handle shipping.
From industrial machinery and telecom materials to clothing, brands, and skincare. You can source any products that move businesses in Latin America.
Need to join the industry? Feel free to contact us and join this rising trading partnership.
