Notice and Call for Applications for the Executive Trade Mission to Libya and Algeria for the Period November 4-8, 2009, 10550-10553 [E9-5275]
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 46 / Wednesday, March 11, 2009 / Notices
Commercial Service staff.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009:
Morning: Briefings by U.S. Embassy
staff and local U.S. business
executives.
Afternoon: One-on-one business
appointments at KCTA Trade Show.
Evening: Networking reception.
Thursday, June 4, 2009:
One-on-one business appointments at
KCTA Trade Show.
Friday, June 5, 2009:
Morning: One-on-one business
appointments at KCTA Trade Show.
Afternoon: Walk the show floor/
Mission concludes.
Saturday, June 6, 2009:
Bonus day for companies to spend at
show on their own, or depart Korea.
Participation Requirements
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with NOTICES
All parties interested in participating
in the Cable Television Trade Mission to
Korea must complete and submit an
application package for consideration by
the Department of Commerce. All
applicants will be evaluated on their
ability to meet certain conditions and
best satisfy the selection criteria as
outlined below. A minimum of 6 and
maximum of 10 companies will be
selected to participate in the mission
from the applicant pool. U.S. companies
already doing business in Korea as well
as U.S. companies seeking to enter the
Korean market for the first time may
apply.
Fees and Expenses:
After a company has been selected to
participate in the mission, a payment to
the Department of Commerce in the
form of a participation fee is required.
The participation fee will be $3,565 for
a large firm and $2,375 for a small or
medium-sized enterprise (SME).* The
fee for each additional firm
representative (large firm or SME) is
$350. Expenses for travel, lodging, most
meals, and incidentals will be the
responsibility of each mission
participant. Access to the KCTA trade
show will be complimentary for
participants.
Conditions for Participation:
• An applicant must submit a
completed and signed mission
application and supplemental
application materials, including
adequate information on the company’s
* An SME is defined as a firm with 500 or fewer
employees or that otherwise qualifies as a small
business under SBA regulations (see https://
www.sba.gov/services/contracting opportunities/
sizestandardstopics/). Parent companies,
affiliates, and subsidiaries will be considered when
determining business size. The dual pricing reflects
the Commercial Service’s user fee schedule that
became effective May 1, 2008 (see https://
www.export.gov/newsletter/march2008/
initiatives.html for additional information).
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17:01 Mar 10, 2009
Jkt 217001
products and/or services, primary
market objectives, and goals for
participation. If the Department of
Commerce receives an incomplete
application, the application may be
rejected, additional information may be
requested, or the lack of information
may be taken into account when
evaluating the application.
• Each applicant must also certify
that the products and services it seeks
to export through the mission are either
produced in the United States, or, if not,
marketed under the name of a U.S. firm
and contain at least 51% U.S. content of
the value of the finished product or
service.
Selection Criteria for Participation:
Selection will be based on the following
criteria:
• Suitability of the company’s
products or services in the Korean
market and target sectors
• Applicant’s potential for business
in Korea, including likelihood of
exports resulting from the mission
• Consistency of the applicant’s goals
and objectives with the stated scope of
the trade mission
Referrals from political organizations
and any documents containing
references to partisan political activities
(including political contributions) will
be removed from an applicant’s
submission and not considered during
the selection process.
Timeframe for Recruitment and
Applications
Mission recruitment will be
conducted in an open and public
manner, and on a first come first serve
basis. Outreach will include publication
in the Federal Register, posting on the
Commerce Department trade mission
calendar (https://www.ita.doc.gov/
doctm/tmcal.html) and other Internet
Web sites, press releases to general and
trade media, direct mail, broadcast fax,
notices by industry trade associations
and other multiplier groups, and
publicity at industry meetings,
symposia, conferences, and trade shows.
The International Trade Administration
will explore and welcome outreach
assistance from other interested
organizations, including other U.S.
Government agencies.
Recruitment for the mission will
begin immediately and will close on
April 24, 2009. Applications are
available on-line on the mission Web
site at https://www.export.gov/
ICTkoreamission. They can also be
obtained by contacting the Mission
Project Officer listed below.
Applications received after April 24,
2009, will be considered only if space
and scheduling constraints permit.
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Contact: Ms. Karen Dubin, U.S.
Department of Commerce, Washington,
DC 20230, Tel: 202–482–3786/Fax: 202–
482–9000, e-mail:
Karen.Dubin@mail.doc.gov.
Dated: March 6, 2009.
Karen Dubin,
CS Trade Missions, Department of Commerce,
Washington, DC.
[FR Doc. E9–5295 Filed 3–10–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–DS–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
International Trade Administration
Notice and Call for Applications for the
Executive Trade Mission to Libya and
Algeria for the Period November 4–8,
2009
AGENCY: International Trade
Administration, Department of
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice and call for applications
for the Executive Trade Mission to Libya
and Algeria for the period November 4–
8, 2009.
Mission Description
The United States Department of
Commerce, International Trade
Administration, U.S. and Foreign
Commercial Service (USFCS) is
organizing a Trade Mission to Tripoli,
Libya and Algiers, Algeria November 4–
8, 2009, to help U.S. firms find business
partners and sell equipment and
services in these markets. This mission
will be led by a senior Commerce
official. Targeted sectors include, but
are not limited to, energy, infrastructure
projects, information technology,
environmental technology, and safety
and security. The mission’s goal is to
provide U.S. participants with firsthand market information, access to
government decision makers as
appropriate, and one-on-one meetings
with business contacts, including
potential agents, distributors and
partners, so that they can position
themselves to enter or expand their
presence in these markets.
Commercial Setting
Libya
Two-way trade between the United
States and Libya has surged since 2004,
with the easing of U.S. sanctions on
Libya. U.S. merchandise exports have
grown from US$39 million in 2004 to
US$721 million in 2008, consisting
mostly of machinery, vehicles, iron/
steel, cereals, and electrical machinery.
Libya’s per capita gross domestic
product (GDP) is one of the highest in
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 46 / Wednesday, March 11, 2009 / Notices
Africa (US$12,400), and the Libyan
government has budgeted over US$80
billion for infrastructure development,
focusing on a number of large projects
relating to residential housing,
highways, railways,
telecommunications, and irrigation.
Libya’s government is making efforts to
diversify the economy and encourage
private-sector participation in new
manufacturing and service activities in
the country. As Libya moves forward
with its transition towards more privatesector led growth, the country holds
potentially rich trade opportunities in
almost every sector of the economy,
from oil and gas to agriculture to
telecommunications, medical
equipment and services, education, and
tourism.
Libya has a business culture where
deals are made on the strength of
personal contacts. This trade mission
offers U.S. company representatives an
excellent introduction to a broad range
of Libyan officials as well as an
opportunity to begin identifying
appropriate business partners.
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Best Prospects
Energy: The Libyan economy is
dominated by the energy sector, which
accounted for 90 percent of export
earnings, about one quarter of GDP and
60 percent of public sector wages. The
market is highly competitive, and more
than forty foreign energy sector
companies are active in Libya. Libya has
high oil and gas reserves, and the
Government has announced its
intention to increase current oil
production of 1.7 million barrels per
day to its pre-sanctions rate of 3 million
barrels per day by 2013. Libya’s proven
gas reserves amount to at least 46.4
trillion cubic feet, placing it 14th in the
world; potential reserves are as high as
70–100 trillion cubic feet. Until
relatively recently Libya did little with
its considerable gas reserves, but
National Oil Company Chairman Shukri
Ghanem has signaled Libya’s intention
to double its production of natural gas
over the next few years. With the
deepening international market for
natural gas, Libya is seeking both to
export more gas and to increase its use
to satisfy domestic energy needs
(thereby freeing up additional oil for
export).
Power demand is growing rapidly, by
approximately 8–9 percent annually,
and Libya plans to more than double
current installed capacity by 2010, at a
cost of over US$3.5 billion. About 60
percent of current power stations are
oil-fired, although the General
Electricity Company of Libya has
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17:01 Mar 10, 2009
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announced plans to make a major effort
to switch to gas-fired turbines.
Infrastructure: Emerging from two
decades of international sanctions,
Libya has extensive infrastructure
development needs in almost every
sector of the economy and region of the
country. In November 2007, the
government announced plans to spend
more than US$123 billion on public
works over five years. Contracting
services and construction materials will
be in great demand in the coming years
to support major road, large-scale office
complex, hotel, and residential housing
projects.
Information Technology:
Telecommunications infrastructure
development is the responsibility of the
state-owned General Post and
Telecommunications Company (GPTC),
created in 1984. GPTC oversees the
operation of fixed and mobile lines, as
well as Libyan Internet service
providers (ISPs). GPTC has expanded
landline coverage to many parts of
Libya, although the quality of its
infrastructure and service needs
substantial improvement. In 1996, GPTC
spun off mobile phone company AlMadar (‘‘Orbit’’) and launched a second,
Libyana, in 2004. Libyana, which
offered service at a fraction of alMadar’s rates, quickly became the
provider of choice in Libya, now
providing an estimated 4 million
accounts (91 percent of market share).
Cell phone penetration is estimated at
75 percent. GPTC is continuously
upgrading its systems and on the
lookout for new technology.
Additionally, there have been some
indications that the government may
open up the market for additional
cellular service providers.
Environment: Water quality in Libya
in and around the major population
centers is known to be extremely poor,
leaving opportunity for U.S. firms in
water treatment technologies. Libya’s
government has expressed increased
interest in boosting the country’s
desalinated water output, and several
large projects have been announced as
part of Libya’s five-year infrastructure
development plan. The Renewable
Energy and Water Desalination Research
Center is currently focusing on
desalination units for use in Libya’s
rural communities not currently
serviced by the Great Man Made River
Authority. Over 60 percent of medium
and large capacity desalination plants
currently operating are more than 17
years old. Water, wastewater treatment,
and desalinization contracts valued at
several hundred million dollars are
expected to be awarded over the coming
few years. The Great Man Made River
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project itself may offer opportunities for
large contracting firms.
Safety and Security: While U.S. firms
need to be aware of U.S. Government
restrictions on the export of certain
security-related products to Libya,
opportunities for U.S. suppliers are
projected to increase as Libya steps up
efforts to improve border control and
protection of public and private
facilities. There is growing interest in
systems for access control,
identification, facilities monitoring and
management, computer protection, and
visual warning and location, among
other applications.
Algeria
Algeria is the second largest country
in Africa in terms of land mass and has
the second largest population in the
North Africa/Middle East region.
Algeria’s market of 35 million
inhabitants, energy wealth, and growing
demands for modern infrastructure have
generated interest from governments
and private companies around the
world. Large oil and natural gas
resources and an economy growing at 3–
5 percent per year (2008 estimate) have
generated almost US$200 billion in
foreign exchange reserves—more than
any country in the region including the
Gulf. In 2008, U.S. exports to Algeria
totaled more than US$1.1 billion, and
the United States ranks as Algeria’s
largest bilateral trading partner in the
world.
The placement of the first American
Commercial Counselor at the U.S.
Embassy in 15 years has allowed the
USFCS to better support U.S. companies
trying to take advantage of commercial
opportunities in Algeria. The trade
mission offers an opportunity for U.S.
business representatives to meet key
Algerian business leaders and
government decision makers who are
hungry for a stronger American private
sector role in this country’s
development, diversification, and
economic expansion. U.S. exporters
considering this region are advised to
gain a foothold in this promising
market.
High-level Algerian government
officials and business leaders have
publicly expressed their desire for
greater U.S. business collaboration and
involvement in major projects in a
variety of sectors.
Best Prospects
Energy: As one of the top ten
producers of oil and natural gas in the
world and a member of Organization of
Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC),
Algeria’s economy is founded on
hydrocarbons. Existing upstream and
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 46 / Wednesday, March 11, 2009 / Notices
midstream infrastructure is aging and
inadequate to meet Algeria’s near-term
production goals. Two new gas
pipelines to Europe will be constructed
beginning in 2009. The Government of
Algeria recently expressed specific
interest in involving more U.S. firms in
electric power generation projects,
renewable energy projects including
wind and solar, and modernizing/
expansion of mining operations in
Algeria. Sonelgaz, Algeria’s power
generation parastatal, will invest nearly
US$30 billion to expand and upgrade
power generation and distribution
capacity. Of the total investment, US$5
billion will be allocated to generation,
US$8 billion to transmission, US$3
billion to gas shipping and more than
US$6 billion to distribution. The
Government-owned Sonatrach
company—also a leading oil
consortium—approved a US$45 billion
investment plan for 2009–12. The lion’s
share—US$20 billion—is aimed at
developing the Algerian petrochemical
industry. The other major areas of
investment include US$10 billion for
upstream exploration and development,
US$6 billion for hydrocarbons
transportation facilities programs, and
US$1.8 billion for hygiene, safety and
environmental protection.
Infrastructure Projects: Algeria is now
focusing on the development of asphalt
bitumen, civil engineering techniques,
and technology to construct roads in
arid and desert climates. The latter is
particularly sought after for the
upcoming high plateau East-West
Highway project, which includes 23
connector roads. The Ministry has
budgeted US$66 billion for these
projects expected to be completed
through 2013.
Environmental: The Algerian
Government will spend US$2 billion
per year on water and environmental
infrastructure for the next five years for
five new dams, ten desalination plants,
a number of water treatment and
reclamation plants, remote sensing and
safety systems for Algerian dams, highprofile water transfer projects, and rural
irrigation.
Safety and Security: The Government
is very interested in procuring border
surveillance and protection solutions,
and critical site security systems for
government ministries and the country’s
hydrocarbon infrastructure. In addition,
closed circuit television, tire wreckers,
and night vision capabilities are in
demand, as are ID card solutions
incorporating biometrics.
Information Technology: Algerians
are increasingly tech-savvy and
interested in acquiring expertise in the
information and communications
technology sector. Government
ministries are interested in
modernization and digitization of
record-keeping. Internet usage, through
businesses and Internet cafes, is
estimated at over 40 percent. Mobile
phones are commonplace, and Algeria is
looking toward fourth-generation
technology. Mobile phones, accessories,
and add-on services, business-tobusiness information management and
strategies, internet connectivity and
backbone equipment and services, and
global positioning systems technology
and services also represent good
opportunities for U.S. exporters.
Mission Goals
The goal of the trade mission is to
provide U.S. participants with firsthand market information, access to
government decision makers as
appropriate and one-on-one meetings
with business contacts, including
potential agents, distributors and
partners, so they can position
themselves to enter or expand their
presence in the Libyan and Algerian
markets.
Mission Scenario
The Trade Mission will include two
stops: Tripoli, Libya and Algiers,
Algeria. In each city, participants will
meet with new business contacts, learn
about the markets by participating in
Embassy briefings, and explore
additional opportunities at networking
receptions. Activities will include oneon-one meetings with pre-screened
business prospects in both countries.
(Note that Saturday and Sunday are part
of the regular work week in Algeria.)
PROPOSED TIMETABLE
Tuesday, November 3 .....................................................................................................................
Wednesday, November 4 ...............................................................................................................
Thursday, November 5 ...................................................................................................................
Friday, November 6 ........................................................................................................................
Saturday, November 7 ....................................................................................................................
Sunday, November 8 ......................................................................................................................
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Participation Requirements
All parties interested in participating
in the Trade Mission to Libya and
Algeria must complete and submit an
application package for consideration by
the U.S. Department of Commerce. All
applicants will be evaluated on their
ability to meet certain conditions and
best satisfy the selection criteria as
outlined below. A minimum of 8 and a
maximum of 20 companies will be
selected to participate in the mission
from the applicant pool. U.S. companies
already doing business in the target
markets as well as U.S. companies
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17:01 Mar 10, 2009
Jkt 217001
seeking to enter these markets for the
first time are encouraged to apply.
Fees and Expenses
After a company has been selected to
participate on the mission, a payment to
the U.S. Department of Commerce in the
form of a participation fee is required.
The participation fee will be $5,850 for
a small or medium-sized enterprise
(SME) * and $6,900 for large firms. The
* An SME is defined as a firm with 500 or fewer
employees or that otherwise qualifies as a small
business under SBA regulations (see https://
www.sba.gov/services/contracting opportunities/
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Arrive in Libya—optional no-host dinner.
Orientation and market briefing. Meetings with
government and industry officials.
One-on-one business appointments. U.S. Embassy reception.
Travel from Tripoli to Algiers.
Orientation and market briefing. Meetings with
government and industry officials. U.S. Embassy reception.
One-on-one business appointments—end of
mission.
fee for each additional firm
representative (SME or large firm) is
$600, with a limit of two representatives
per firm. Interpreters are included in the
fee. Expenses for travel, lodging, some
meals, and incidentals will be the
responsibility of each mission
participant. Delegation members will be
sizestandardstopics/). Parent companies,
affiliates, and subsidiaries will be considered when
determining business size. The dual pricing reflects
the Commercial Service’s user fee schedule that
became effective May 1, 2008 (for additional
information see https://www.export.gov/newsletter/
march2008/initiatives.html).
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 46 / Wednesday, March 11, 2009 / Notices
able to take advantage of Embassy rates
for hotel rooms.
considered only if space and scheduling
constraints permit.
Conditions for Participation
Disclaimer, Security, and
Transportation
Trade mission members participate in
the trade mission and undertake related
travel at their own risk and are advised
to obtain insurance accordingly. Any
question regarding insurance coverage
must be resolved by the participant and
its insurer of choice. The U.S.
Government does not make any
representations or guarantees as to the
safety or security of participants.
Companies should consult the State
Department’s travel warning for Algeria:
https://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/
cis/cis_1087.html. ITA will coordinate
with the U.S. Embassy in Algiers to
arrange for transportation of the mission
participants to and from the airport and
hotel. The hotel that will be the primary
venue for the mission is a luxury hotel
and does have strong security measures
in place. Security will be furnished by
the U.S. Embassy in Algiers and private
hotel security.
The U.S. Government does not make
any representations or guarantees as to
the commercial success of businesses
which participate in this trade mission.
• An applicant must submit a
completed and signed mission
application and supplemental
application materials, including
adequate information on the company’s
products and/or services, primary
market objectives, and goals for
participation. If the U.S. Department of
Commerce receives an incomplete
application, the Department may reject
the application, request additional
information, or take the lack of
information into account when
evaluating the applications.
• Each applicant must also certify
that the products and services it seeks
to export through the mission are either
produced in the United States, or, if not,
marketed under the name of a U.S. firm
and have at least 51 percent U.S.
content of the value of the finished
product or service.
Selection Criteria for Participation
Selection will be based on the
following criteria:
• Suitability of the company’s
products or services to the Libyan and
Algerian markets.
• Applicant’s potential for business
in Libya and Algeria, including
likelihood of exports resulting from the
mission.
• Consistency of the applicant’s goals
and objectives with the stated scope of
the mission.
Referrals from political organizations
and any documents containing
references to partisan political activities
(including political contributions) will
be removed from an applicant’s
submission and not considered during
the selection process.
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Timeframe for Recruitment and
Applications
17:01 Mar 10, 2009
Jkt 217001
Dated: March 3, 2009.
Lisa Huot,
CS Trade Mission Program, U.S. Department
of Commerce.
[FR Doc. E9–5275 Filed 3–10–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–DS–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
International Trade Administration
Mission recruitment will be
conducted in an open and public
manner, including posting on the U.S.
Department of Commerce trade missions
calendar—https://www.ita.doc.gov/
doctm/tmcal.html—and other Internet
Web sites, publication in domestic trade
publications and association
newsletters, direct outreach to the
Department’s clients and distribution
lists, posting in the Federal Register,
and announcements at industry
meetings, symposia, conferences, and
trade shows.
Recruitment for the mission will
begin immediately and conclude no
later than August 1, 2009. Applications
received after August 1, 2009, will be
VerDate Nov<24>2008
For More Information and an
Application Packet Contact
Lisa Huot, U.S. Commercial Service,
Department of Commerce, Tel: 202–
482–2796, Fax: 202–482–9000, e-mail:
northafricamission@mail.doc.gov.
Revised European Port Infrastructure
and Security Trade Mission to
Germany, Belgium and Italy, May 4–8,
2009
AGENCY: International Trade
Administration, Department of
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice.
Mission Statement
Revised European Port Infrastructure
and Security Trade Mission to Germany,
Belgium and Italy, May 4–8, 2009.
Mission Description
The United States Department of
Commerce’s International Trade
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10553
Administration, U.S. and Foreign
Commercial Service, is organizing a
Trade Mission to Germany, Belgium and
Italy, May 4–8, 2009. This event is
intended to tap immediate opportunities
in port infrastructure, and security and
logistics in Hamburg, Germany;
Antwerp, Belgium; and Genoa, Italy.
Because these ports are key gateways to
the Western European market,
companies from countries beyond
Germany, Belgium, and Italy will be
informed about the mission and
encouraged to meet with the U.S.
participants.
The program will focus on several
major areas, including, but not limited
to, the following:
(1) Port safety and security, including
container tagging, chemical and
radiation detection equipment,
electronic container seals, tracking
equipment, virtual simulation products
and other high-technology security
items, and training (such as first
responder);
(2) Port logistics and infrastructure,
including supply chain,
communications, crisis management,
risk management products, disaster
control shore-based electricity, inland
connections, terminal railroad
infrastructure, pipelines and other
solutions for liquid bulk and
petrochemical products;
(3) Port environment, including
reduced emissions, clean engine
developments and GreenPorts
Certification; and
(4) European maritime policies.
The trade mission will expose
participating companies to procurement
opportunities in maritime ports and
showcase U.S. technology, which is
highly regarded and maintains a
competitive edge in Europe.
Commercial Setting
As in other markets, Europe places a
strong emphasis on homeland security,
transportation, environmental safety
and critical infrastructure development.
The need for information exchange and
security concerning the maritime
industry continues to create
opportunities in the maritime sector in
Europe. Approximately 90 percent of
the transport of goods to and from the
European Union is by sea. The
European Union has adopted rules
regarding maritime safety and security
to ensure quality shipping that respects
the environment and guarantees an
optimal level of protection. The current
European maritime transport policy
calls for safety and security measures
that will allow the European maritime
industry to continue making the most of
its already prominent role to maximize
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 46 (Wednesday, March 11, 2009)]
[Notices]
[Pages 10550-10553]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-5275]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
International Trade Administration
Notice and Call for Applications for the Executive Trade Mission
to Libya and Algeria for the Period November 4-8, 2009
AGENCY: International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce.
ACTION: Notice and call for applications for the Executive Trade
Mission to Libya and Algeria for the period November 4-8, 2009.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Mission Description
The United States Department of Commerce, International Trade
Administration, U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) is
organizing a Trade Mission to Tripoli, Libya and Algiers, Algeria
November 4-8, 2009, to help U.S. firms find business partners and sell
equipment and services in these markets. This mission will be led by a
senior Commerce official. Targeted sectors include, but are not limited
to, energy, infrastructure projects, information technology,
environmental technology, and safety and security. The mission's goal
is to provide U.S. participants with first-hand market information,
access to government decision makers as appropriate, and one-on-one
meetings with business contacts, including potential agents,
distributors and partners, so that they can position themselves to
enter or expand their presence in these markets.
Commercial Setting
Libya
Two-way trade between the United States and Libya has surged since
2004, with the easing of U.S. sanctions on Libya. U.S. merchandise
exports have grown from US$39 million in 2004 to US$721 million in
2008, consisting mostly of machinery, vehicles, iron/steel, cereals,
and electrical machinery.
Libya's per capita gross domestic product (GDP) is one of the
highest in
[[Page 10551]]
Africa (US$12,400), and the Libyan government has budgeted over US$80
billion for infrastructure development, focusing on a number of large
projects relating to residential housing, highways, railways,
telecommunications, and irrigation. Libya's government is making
efforts to diversify the economy and encourage private-sector
participation in new manufacturing and service activities in the
country. As Libya moves forward with its transition towards more
private-sector led growth, the country holds potentially rich trade
opportunities in almost every sector of the economy, from oil and gas
to agriculture to telecommunications, medical equipment and services,
education, and tourism.
Libya has a business culture where deals are made on the strength
of personal contacts. This trade mission offers U.S. company
representatives an excellent introduction to a broad range of Libyan
officials as well as an opportunity to begin identifying appropriate
business partners.
Best Prospects
Energy: The Libyan economy is dominated by the energy sector, which
accounted for 90 percent of export earnings, about one quarter of GDP
and 60 percent of public sector wages. The market is highly
competitive, and more than forty foreign energy sector companies are
active in Libya. Libya has high oil and gas reserves, and the
Government has announced its intention to increase current oil
production of 1.7 million barrels per day to its pre-sanctions rate of
3 million barrels per day by 2013. Libya's proven gas reserves amount
to at least 46.4 trillion cubic feet, placing it 14th in the world;
potential reserves are as high as 70-100 trillion cubic feet. Until
relatively recently Libya did little with its considerable gas
reserves, but National Oil Company Chairman Shukri Ghanem has signaled
Libya's intention to double its production of natural gas over the next
few years. With the deepening international market for natural gas,
Libya is seeking both to export more gas and to increase its use to
satisfy domestic energy needs (thereby freeing up additional oil for
export).
Power demand is growing rapidly, by approximately 8-9 percent
annually, and Libya plans to more than double current installed
capacity by 2010, at a cost of over US$3.5 billion. About 60 percent of
current power stations are oil-fired, although the General Electricity
Company of Libya has announced plans to make a major effort to switch
to gas-fired turbines.
Infrastructure: Emerging from two decades of international
sanctions, Libya has extensive infrastructure development needs in
almost every sector of the economy and region of the country. In
November 2007, the government announced plans to spend more than US$123
billion on public works over five years. Contracting services and
construction materials will be in great demand in the coming years to
support major road, large-scale office complex, hotel, and residential
housing projects.
Information Technology: Telecommunications infrastructure
development is the responsibility of the state-owned General Post and
Telecommunications Company (GPTC), created in 1984. GPTC oversees the
operation of fixed and mobile lines, as well as Libyan Internet service
providers (ISPs). GPTC has expanded landline coverage to many parts of
Libya, although the quality of its infrastructure and service needs
substantial improvement. In 1996, GPTC spun off mobile phone company
Al-Madar (``Orbit'') and launched a second, Libyana, in 2004. Libyana,
which offered service at a fraction of al-Madar's rates, quickly became
the provider of choice in Libya, now providing an estimated 4 million
accounts (91 percent of market share). Cell phone penetration is
estimated at 75 percent. GPTC is continuously upgrading its systems and
on the lookout for new technology. Additionally, there have been some
indications that the government may open up the market for additional
cellular service providers.
Environment: Water quality in Libya in and around the major
population centers is known to be extremely poor, leaving opportunity
for U.S. firms in water treatment technologies. Libya's government has
expressed increased interest in boosting the country's desalinated
water output, and several large projects have been announced as part of
Libya's five-year infrastructure development plan. The Renewable Energy
and Water Desalination Research Center is currently focusing on
desalination units for use in Libya's rural communities not currently
serviced by the Great Man Made River Authority. Over 60 percent of
medium and large capacity desalination plants currently operating are
more than 17 years old. Water, wastewater treatment, and desalinization
contracts valued at several hundred million dollars are expected to be
awarded over the coming few years. The Great Man Made River project
itself may offer opportunities for large contracting firms.
Safety and Security: While U.S. firms need to be aware of U.S.
Government restrictions on the export of certain security-related
products to Libya, opportunities for U.S. suppliers are projected to
increase as Libya steps up efforts to improve border control and
protection of public and private facilities. There is growing interest
in systems for access control, identification, facilities monitoring
and management, computer protection, and visual warning and location,
among other applications.
Algeria
Algeria is the second largest country in Africa in terms of land
mass and has the second largest population in the North Africa/Middle
East region. Algeria's market of 35 million inhabitants, energy wealth,
and growing demands for modern infrastructure have generated interest
from governments and private companies around the world. Large oil and
natural gas resources and an economy growing at 3-5 percent per year
(2008 estimate) have generated almost US$200 billion in foreign
exchange reserves--more than any country in the region including the
Gulf. In 2008, U.S. exports to Algeria totaled more than US$1.1
billion, and the United States ranks as Algeria's largest bilateral
trading partner in the world.
The placement of the first American Commercial Counselor at the
U.S. Embassy in 15 years has allowed the USFCS to better support U.S.
companies trying to take advantage of commercial opportunities in
Algeria. The trade mission offers an opportunity for U.S. business
representatives to meet key Algerian business leaders and government
decision makers who are hungry for a stronger American private sector
role in this country's development, diversification, and economic
expansion. U.S. exporters considering this region are advised to gain a
foothold in this promising market.
High-level Algerian government officials and business leaders have
publicly expressed their desire for greater U.S. business collaboration
and involvement in major projects in a variety of sectors.
Best Prospects
Energy: As one of the top ten producers of oil and natural gas in
the world and a member of Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries
(OPEC), Algeria's economy is founded on hydrocarbons. Existing upstream
and
[[Page 10552]]
midstream infrastructure is aging and inadequate to meet Algeria's
near-term production goals. Two new gas pipelines to Europe will be
constructed beginning in 2009. The Government of Algeria recently
expressed specific interest in involving more U.S. firms in electric
power generation projects, renewable energy projects including wind and
solar, and modernizing/ expansion of mining operations in Algeria.
Sonelgaz, Algeria's power generation parastatal, will invest nearly
US$30 billion to expand and upgrade power generation and distribution
capacity. Of the total investment, US$5 billion will be allocated to
generation, US$8 billion to transmission, US$3 billion to gas shipping
and more than US$6 billion to distribution. The Government-owned
Sonatrach company--also a leading oil consortium--approved a US$45
billion investment plan for 2009-12. The lion's share--US$20 billion--
is aimed at developing the Algerian petrochemical industry. The other
major areas of investment include US$10 billion for upstream
exploration and development, US$6 billion for hydrocarbons
transportation facilities programs, and US$1.8 billion for hygiene,
safety and environmental protection.
Infrastructure Projects: Algeria is now focusing on the development
of asphalt bitumen, civil engineering techniques, and technology to
construct roads in arid and desert climates. The latter is particularly
sought after for the upcoming high plateau East-West Highway project,
which includes 23 connector roads. The Ministry has budgeted US$66
billion for these projects expected to be completed through 2013.
Environmental: The Algerian Government will spend US$2 billion per
year on water and environmental infrastructure for the next five years
for five new dams, ten desalination plants, a number of water treatment
and reclamation plants, remote sensing and safety systems for Algerian
dams, high-profile water transfer projects, and rural irrigation.
Safety and Security: The Government is very interested in procuring
border surveillance and protection solutions, and critical site
security systems for government ministries and the country's
hydrocarbon infrastructure. In addition, closed circuit television,
tire wreckers, and night vision capabilities are in demand, as are ID
card solutions incorporating biometrics.
Information Technology: Algerians are increasingly tech-savvy and
interested in acquiring expertise in the information and communications
technology sector. Government ministries are interested in
modernization and digitization of record-keeping. Internet usage,
through businesses and Internet cafes, is estimated at over 40 percent.
Mobile phones are commonplace, and Algeria is looking toward fourth-
generation technology. Mobile phones, accessories, and add-on services,
business-to-business information management and strategies, internet
connectivity and backbone equipment and services, and global
positioning systems technology and services also represent good
opportunities for U.S. exporters.
Mission Goals
The goal of the trade mission is to provide U.S. participants with
first-hand market information, access to government decision makers as
appropriate and one-on-one meetings with business contacts, including
potential agents, distributors and partners, so they can position
themselves to enter or expand their presence in the Libyan and Algerian
markets.
Mission Scenario
The Trade Mission will include two stops: Tripoli, Libya and
Algiers, Algeria. In each city, participants will meet with new
business contacts, learn about the markets by participating in Embassy
briefings, and explore additional opportunities at networking
receptions. Activities will include one-on-one meetings with pre-
screened business prospects in both countries. (Note that Saturday and
Sunday are part of the regular work week in Algeria.)
Proposed Timetable
------------------------------------------------------------------------
'> '>
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, November 3.......................... Arrive in Libya--optional
no-host dinner.
Wednesday, November 4........................ Orientation and market
briefing. Meetings with
government and industry
officials.
Thursday, November 5......................... One-on-one business
appointments. U.S.
Embassy reception.
Friday, November 6........................... Travel from Tripoli to
Algiers.
Saturday, November 7......................... Orientation and market
briefing. Meetings with
government and industry
officials. U.S. Embassy
reception.
Sunday, November 8........................... One-on-one business
appointments--end of
mission.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Participation Requirements
All parties interested in participating in the Trade Mission to
Libya and Algeria must complete and submit an application package for
consideration by the U.S. Department of Commerce. All applicants will
be evaluated on their ability to meet certain conditions and best
satisfy the selection criteria as outlined below. A minimum of 8 and a
maximum of 20 companies will be selected to participate in the mission
from the applicant pool. U.S. companies already doing business in the
target markets as well as U.S. companies seeking to enter these markets
for the first time are encouraged to apply.
Fees and Expenses
After a company has been selected to participate on the mission, a
payment to the U.S. Department of Commerce in the form of a
participation fee is required. The participation fee will be $5,850 for
a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) * and $6,900 for large firms.
The fee for each additional firm representative (SME or large firm) is
$600, with a limit of two representatives per firm. Interpreters are
included in the fee. Expenses for travel, lodging, some meals, and
incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant.
Delegation members will be
[[Page 10553]]
able to take advantage of Embassy rates for hotel rooms.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
* An SME is defined as a firm with 500 or fewer employees or
that otherwise qualifies as a small business under SBA regulations
(see https://www.sba.gov/services/contracting opportunities/
sizestandardstopics/). Parent companies, affiliates, and
subsidiaries will be considered when determining business size. The
dual pricing reflects the Commercial Service's user fee schedule
that became effective May 1, 2008 (for additional information see
https://www.export.gov/newsletter/march2008/initiatives.html).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Conditions for Participation
An applicant must submit a completed and signed mission
application and supplemental application materials, including adequate
information on the company's products and/or services, primary market
objectives, and goals for participation. If the U.S. Department of
Commerce receives an incomplete application, the Department may reject
the application, request additional information, or take the lack of
information into account when evaluating the applications.
Each applicant must also certify that the products and
services it seeks to export through the mission are either produced in
the United States, or, if not, marketed under the name of a U.S. firm
and have at least 51 percent U.S. content of the value of the finished
product or service.
Selection Criteria for Participation
Selection will be based on the following criteria:
Suitability of the company's products or services to the
Libyan and Algerian markets.
Applicant's potential for business in Libya and Algeria,
including likelihood of exports resulting from the mission.
Consistency of the applicant's goals and objectives with
the stated scope of the mission.
Referrals from political organizations and any documents containing
references to partisan political activities (including political
contributions) will be removed from an applicant's submission and not
considered during the selection process.
Timeframe for Recruitment and Applications
Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner,
including posting on the U.S. Department of Commerce trade missions
calendar--https://www.ita.doc.gov/doctm/tmcal.html_and other Internet
Web sites, publication in domestic trade publications and association
newsletters, direct outreach to the Department's clients and
distribution lists, posting in the Federal Register, and announcements
at industry meetings, symposia, conferences, and trade shows.
Recruitment for the mission will begin immediately and conclude no
later than August 1, 2009. Applications received after August 1, 2009,
will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit.
Disclaimer, Security, and Transportation
Trade mission members participate in the trade mission and
undertake related travel at their own risk and are advised to obtain
insurance accordingly. Any question regarding insurance coverage must
be resolved by the participant and its insurer of choice. The U.S.
Government does not make any representations or guarantees as to the
safety or security of participants. Companies should consult the State
Department's travel warning for Algeria: https://travel.state.gov/
travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1087.html. ITA will coordinate with the
U.S. Embassy in Algiers to arrange for transportation of the mission
participants to and from the airport and hotel. The hotel that will be
the primary venue for the mission is a luxury hotel and does have
strong security measures in place. Security will be furnished by the
U.S. Embassy in Algiers and private hotel security.
The U.S. Government does not make any representations or guarantees
as to the commercial success of businesses which participate in this
trade mission.
For More Information and an Application Packet Contact
Lisa Huot, U.S. Commercial Service, Department of Commerce, Tel:
202-482-2796, Fax: 202-482-9000, e-mail:
northafricamission@mail.doc.gov.
Dated: March 3, 2009.
Lisa Huot,
CS Trade Mission Program, U.S. Department of Commerce.
[FR Doc. E9-5275 Filed 3-10-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-DS-P
