Tampa's Chamber of Commerce sent a delegation to Cuba on Tuesday hoping to forge relationships that will one day lead to commerce and travel.
A Tampa delegation also visited the country in 2013, but this year's visit comes as President Barack Obama is pushing to restore diplomatic relations with the country.
Congress could decide on May 29 on whether the U.S. will remove Cuba from the list of nations that support terrorism.
The delegation of 36 people will tour Cuba's Port Mariel, an important location because the Port of Tampa would have direct shipping access to Cuba if an embargo is lifted. The delegates also will get briefings on telecommunications developments and meet with Cuban entrepreneurs.