Almost two years after the Chiquita Brands International announced its move to the Big Easy for shipping operations, it has been speculated the arrangement may change. 

Website Theadvocate.com reported the multinational was considering moving its cargo business elsewhere, but Port of New Orleans officials were trying their best to convince Chiquita to stay.

As the rumor passed "around the docks", port CEO Gary LaGrange told the publication he first felt dismayed upon hearing the news.

However, there is yet to be any formal notification of the issue to the port authorities.

"The Board has yet to be officially notified of any change and we have no further comment at this time," a port spokesperson told www.freshfruitportal.com.

News Channel 10 reported talks were underway between Chiquita and officials from its former shipping hub, the Port of Gulfport.

The port's director Jonathan Daniels told the broadcaster his commissioners were open to the idea of Chiquita returning.

In a statement given to www.freshfruitportal.com, a Port of Gulfport spokesperson also confirmed no official notification of a move had been given.

"The Port of Gulfport has not received any notification that Chiquita is departing the Port of New Orleans. Should they decide, we hope that we would be given fair consideration due to our 40-year partnership with the company," the spokesperson said.

"We are open to discussions and if given the opportunity would do everything in our power to facilitate a move back to Gulfport."

Representatives of Chiquita Brands have not responded to requests for comment.

www.freshfruitportal.com