"We are happy of beginning this chapter in our association with Manatee Port, one of the fast growing in the U.S," said the head of the Authorities of Panama Canal (ACP), Alberto Aleman Zubieta.

　　The deal would provide the Panamanian side more information on the demands of the maritime industry beyond the 2014, when the Canal's expansion project will be finished, Aleman said after signing the agreement with Manatee Port director David I. McDonald.

　　McDonald said that Port Manatee has kept a strategic alliance with Panama Canal, which has benefited the economies of both countries.

　　"Due to the proximity of the Canal with the U.S., our clients have saved millions of dollars and uncountable man hours through the years," McDonald said.

　　In 2008, Port Manatee handled 8.3 million tons of cargoes, 16 percent of which were transited through the Panama Canal.

　　Port Manatee has spend 150 million dollars during the last decade to increase its capacity, partly to prepare for the expected 2014 opening of a deeper and wider Panama Canal.

　　The 5.25-billion-dollar expansion of the Canal is expected to usher in a shift in shipping patterns worldwide.