HARTFORD, Conn. — Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont signed legislation on Friday establishing a new trade commission between Connecticut and Puerto Rico.

The creation of the Connecticut-Puerto Rico Trade Commission is a move aimed at strengthening economic ties and providing new opportunities for the state’s large Puerto Rican population.

Supporters say the commission could be a game changer for Puerto Rican-owned businesses across Connecticut.

Michel Martinez, owner of Banderas Latin Fusion on Granfield Avenue in Bridgeport, said he is excited for what this new partnership could mean.

“There’s a big Puerto Rican population here, and what better way to do business with Puerto Rican mainland then to cut the middle man and just go straight for it. It’ll help the small businesses,” Martinez

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