Transportation Infrastructure/Multimodal Products and Services Trade Mission to Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 32953-32956 [2011-13923]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 109 / Tuesday, June 7, 2011 / Notices markets as well as U.S. companies seeking to enter these markets for the first time should 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. For the entire mission (China and Mongolia), the fee will be $6,245 for large firms and $5,475 for small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs,1 i.e., companies with no more than 500 employees). For China only, the fee will be $4,995 for large firms and $4,500 for SMEs. The fee for each additional participant per company will be $725. For Mongolia only, the fee will be $1,250 for large firms and $975 for SMEs. The fee for each additional participant per company will be $200. Expenses for travel, lodging, most meals, and incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant. 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. emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES 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 1 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/contractingopportunities/owners/ basics/whatismallbusiness/. 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:30 Jun 06, 2011 Jkt 223001 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 • Suitability of the company’s products or services to the Chinese and/ or Mongolian markets and targeted sector. • Consistency of the applicant’s goals and objectives with the stated scope and design of the mission. • Applicant’s potential for business in China and/or Mongolia, including likelihood of exports resulting from the mission. Diversity of company size, type, location, and demographics, may also be considered during the review process. 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. Selection Timeline Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner, including publication in the Federal Register (https:// www.gpoaccess.gov/fr), posting on ITA’s trade mission calendar—https:// www.trade.gov/trade-missions—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. Recruitment for the mission will begin immediately, and conclude August 12, 2011, unless extended by the Department of Commerce. Applications received after August 12, 2011, will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit. The U.S. Department of Commerce will inform applicants of selection decisions as soon as possible after August 12, 2011. PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 32953 Contacts U.S. Commercial Service—HQ Mr. Louis Quay, International Trade Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service, HQ, Tel: 202–482–3973, E-mail: louis.quay@trade.gov. U.S. Commercial Service China Mr. Andrew Billard, U.S. Commercial Service, Beijing, Tel: 86–10–8531–3589, E-mail: andrew.billard@trade.gov. Elnora Moye, U.S. Department of Commerce, Commercial Service Trade Mission Program, Tel: 202– 482–4204, E-mail: elnora.moye@trade.gov. [FR Doc. 2011–13921 Filed 6–6–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–FP–P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration Transportation Infrastructure/ Multimodal Products and Services Trade Mission to Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: Mission Description The U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, U.S. Commercial Service is organizing a senior executive-led trade mission for multimodal transportation and infrastructure development products and services to Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) on October 29–November 3, 2011. The mission is designed to contribute to President Obama’s National Export Initiative, which aims to double U.S. exports by 2015 while supporting two million American jobs, by increasing exports of products and services that contribute to infrastructure development projects in Qatar and U.A.E. The mission will help U.S. companies already doing business in Qatar or the U.A.E. increase their current level of exports and exposure, and will help experienced U.S. exporters, which have not yet done business in Qatar or the U.A.E. enter these markets in support of job creation in the United States. Participating firms will gain market information, connect with key business and government decision makers, solidify business strategies, and/or advance specific projects. In each of these important sectors, participating U.S. companies will meet with prescreened potential partners, agents, E:\FR\FM\07JNN1.SGM 07JNN1 32954 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 109 / Tuesday, June 7, 2011 / Notices distributors, representatives, and licensees. The agenda will also include meetings with high-level national and local government officials, networking opportunities, country briefings, and seminars. The industry sectors for this mission will include, but are not limited to: multimodal freight transportation systems, products and technologies, including port development, airport development, freight rail systems and technologies, supply chain systems and strategies; mass transportation systems; advanced vehicle technologies and intelligent transportation systems and related services and software; and other relevant products and services. The delegation will be composed of 15 qualified U.S. firms representing the industry sectors noted above. Representatives of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im) will be invited to participate (as appropriate) to provide information and counseling on their programs as they relate to the markets in Qatar and the U.A.E. Commercial Setting emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES Qatar The United States continues to be the largest exporter to Qatar, accounting for 14 percent of the total import market. U.S. exports have surged by 495 percent, from $454 million in 2003 to $2.7 billion in 2009. Qatar is the fifth largest U.S. export destination in the Middle East, making it an important market for U.S. small- and mediumsized businesses. Qatar is one of the richest countries per capita in the world, with GDP per capita valued at $90,000. In 2010, total GDP was valued at $128 billion. The IMF predicts that Qatar will grow by 20 percent in 2011. The World Bank announced that Qatar is the most economically competitive in the Middle East. Taken together, this has led foreign firms to increase their investment in Qatar’s infrastructure, making it one of the most prosperous markets in the Middle East. Qatar’s success in winning the 2022 World Cup Nation Host opens up a constellation of opportunities for U.S. business. The country plans to spend up to $100 billion in infrastructure projects between now and the World Cup in 2022, including roads, bridges, highways, railways, ports, and related consultancy services. Qatar’s transportation infrastructure also benefits significantly with respect to Qatar’s current domestic growth environment. Its road transportation structure has been operating at capacity, VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:30 Jun 06, 2011 Jkt 223001 with a strong need to expand the system. Currently, road infrastructure is the only mode of transportation, which is one of the major causes for heavy congestion throughout the country. There are excellent opportunities for U.S. engineers, program management firms, and manufacturers to contribute to the creation of new transport infrastructure projects (i.e., railways, roads, ports, bridges, and highways), along with improved traffic safety systems. The Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim, has stated that a significant share of Qatar’s budget will be for infrastructure development, and it will be completely self-financed. As much as 30 percent of the budget is reportedly earmarked for infrastructure upgrades, such as the New Doha International Airport, New Doha Seaport, the Doha Expressway Project, roads, and related program management services. The country continues to maintain high levels of capital spending on major projects, which will reach $12 billion in 2010–2011 compared with $10.4 billion in 2009–2010, representing a 15 percent year-on-year increase. U.A.E. The U.A.E. is the largest U.S. export market in the Middle East/North Africa region, the second largest economy in the region, and presents qualified American companies with opportunities to expand their products and services to a fast growing market. The U.A.E. is the logistics and business services hub for the wider region. The 2009 GDP for the U.A.E. was $231.3 billion and the 2009 per capita income was $42,000. Despite the recent global financial crisis, the United States and the U.A.E. have continued their long-term trade and investment relationship. Exports between both countries have increased almost every year since 1971, when the U.A.E. was established. The United States exported over $12 billion worth of products to the U.A.E. in 2009, representing a 237 percent increase since 2002. The United States is the third largest exporter to the U.A.E. and enjoys a very large trade surplus and a strong trading and investment relationship. The U.A.E. is among the Middle East region’s leaders in terms of openness to international trade and investment and political stability. It has successfully developed itself into the largest logistics hub in the wider region, with the second-largest man-made port in the world at Jebel Ali, and the fourth busiest airport in the world. It is making major investments in infrastructure and economic diversification, resulting in significant export opportunities for U.S. PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 firms. The U.A.E is developing key transportation infrastructure projects including: Port Khalifa and industrial zone at Taweelah; the new $8 billion Union Railway project; the $6.7 billion expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport; the construction of the new Maktoum Airport, which will eventually have five runways; and public transportation systems, such as the expansion of the Dubai metro and the construction of the Abu Dhabi metro and light rail. The goods, services and know-how necessary for the construction and profitable operation of these new systems, particularly those related to multimodal freight and intelligent supply chain management, provides significant business opportunities in areas where U.S. companies excel. U.S. products enjoy favorable tariffs that generally do not exceed five percent.1 Other Products and Services The foregoing analysis of export opportunities in Qatar and the U.A.E. is not intended to be exhaustive, but illustrative of the many opportunities in these markets available to U.S. businesses. Other products and services that contribute to the energy and infrastructure development of Qatar and the U.A.E. also may have great potential. Applications from companies selling products and services within the scope of this mission, but not specifically identified in this Mission Statement, will be considered and evaluated by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Companies whose products do not fit the scope of the mission may contact their local U.S. Export Assistance Center (USEAC) to learn about other trade missions and services that may provide more targeted export opportunities. Companies may call 1–800–872–8723, or e-mail: tic@trade.gov to obtain such information. This information also may be found on the Department’s Web site: https://www.export.gov. Mission Goals This Business Development Mission will demonstrate the United States’ commitment to a sustained economic engagement with Qatar and the U.A.E. The mission will combine policy dialogue and business development for U.S. firms. Additionally, the mission will advance the Administration’s goal to broaden and deepen the U.S. exporter base and support the President’s National Export Initiative by providing individual participants with business 1 World Trade Organization: Latest Available MFN Applied Tariffs At HS 6 (2007). E:\FR\FM\07JNN1.SGM 07JNN1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 109 / Tuesday, June 7, 2011 / Notices opportunities to achieve export success in these markets. In support of these goals, the mission’s purpose is to support participants as they construct a firm foundation for future business in Qatar and the U.A.E., and specifically aims to: • Provide participants with market information about the local infrastructure that will contribute to increasing U.S. exports to the Qatari and U.A.E. markets. • Assist in identifying potential endusers and partners (including potential agents, distributors, and licensee partners) and business strategies for U.S. companies to gain access to the Qatari and U.A.E. markets. • Provide an opportunity to participate in policy and regulatory framework discussions with Qatari and U.A.E. government officials and private sector representatives to advance U.S. market access interests in these markets. • Confirm U.S. government support for U.S. business activities in Qatar and the U.A.E. and to provide access to senior government decision makers from Qatar and U.A.E. Mission Scenario During the mission to Qatar and the U.A.E., the participants will: • Meet with high-level Qatari and Emirati government officials. • Meet with prescreened potential partners, agents, distributors, representatives and licensees. • Meet with representatives of the Chambers of Commerce, industry and trade associations. • Attend briefings conducted by Embassy officials on the economic and commercial climates. Receptions and other business events will be organized to provide mission participants with additional opportunities to speak with local business and government representatives, as well as U.S. business executives living and working in the region. Proposed Timetable emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES The mission program will begin at 5 p.m., Saturday, October 29, 2011 and run through the evening of Thursday, November 3, 2011. Participants are encouraged to arrive on or before October 29, 2011. Saturday, October 29 (weekend) Doha, Qatar No-Host Welcome Dinner Sunday, October 30 Doha, Qatar Market Briefing by U.S. Embassy Officials VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:30 Jun 06, 2011 Jkt 223001 Meetings with Senior Qatari Government Officials Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives Networking Reception Monday, October 31 Doha, Qatar One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation Evening Travel to Abu Dhabi, UAE Tuesday, November 1 Abu Dhabi, UAE Market Briefing by U.S. Embassy Officials Meetings with Senior UAE and Abu Dhabi Government Officials Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation Networking reception Wednesday, November 2 Abu Dhabi, UAE One-on-one business matchmaking appointments Travel to Dubai Dubai, UAE Networking reception Thursday, November 3 Dubai, UAE Meetings with Senior Dubai Government Officials Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation Closing Dinner Participation Requirements All parties interested in participating in the Business Development Mission to Qatar and the U.A.E. must complete and timely 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. The mission is designed to select a a maximum of 15 companies 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 Department of Commerce in the form of a participation fee is required. The participation fee will be $4259 for large firms and $3707 for a small or PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 32955 medium-sized enterprise (SME),2 which will cover the principal (one) representative. The fee for each additional firm representative (large firm or SME) is $800. Local transportation, including transport between mission cities, is included in the participation fee. Expenses for travel, lodging, some meals, and incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant. Air transportation from the United States (or point of origin) to Qatar and return to the United States is the responsibility of the participant. Business visas may be required. Government fees and processing expenses to obtain such visas are also not included in the mission costs. However, the U.S. Department of Commerce will provide instructions to each participant on the procedures required to obtain necessary business visas. Conditions for Participation An applicant must timely 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. Selection Criteria for Participation: Selection will be based on the following criteria in decreasing order of importance: • Consistency of a company’s products or services with the scope and desired outcome of the mission’s goals; • Suitability of a company’s products or services to the Qatari and U.A.E. markets and the likelihood of a participating company’s increased exports to or business interests in these markets as a result of this mission; • Demonstrated export experience in Qatar, the U.A.E., or other foreign markets; Additional factors, such as diversity of company size, type, location, and 2 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). E:\FR\FM\07JNN1.SGM 07JNN1 32956 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 109 / Tuesday, June 7, 2011 / Notices demographics, may also be considered during the review process. Referrals from political organizations and any documents, including the application, containing references to partisan political activities (including political contributions) will be removed from an applicant’s submission and not considered during the selection process. Selection Timeline Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner, including publication in the Federal Register, posting on the Commerce Department trade mission calendar—https://www.trade.gov/trademissions/—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 Commerce Department’s Office of Business Liaison and the International Trade Administration will explore and welcome outreach assistance from other interested organizations, including other U.S. government agencies. Applications can be completed on-line at the Qatar and U.A.E. Business Development Mission Web site at https:// www.trade.gov/QatarUAEMission2011 or can be obtained by contacting Jessica Arnold (202–482–1856/ qataruaemission2011@trade.gov). The application deadline is Monday June 20, 2011, unless extended by the Department of Commerce. Applications received after Monday, June 20, 2011, will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit. Contacts U.S. Commercial Service Domestic Contact Ms. Jessica Arnold, Phone: (202) 482– 2026/Fax: (202) 482–1900, E-mail: QatarUAEMission2011@trade.gov. emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with NOTICES U.S. Commercial Service Qatar Contact Mr. Dao Le, U.S. Commercial Service, Doha, Qatar, Tel: 011- 974–488–4101/ Fax: 011–974–488–4163, E-mail: Dao.Le@trade.gov. U.S. Commercial Service U.A.E. Contact Ms. Laurie Farris, U.S. Commercial Service, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Phone: 011– 971–2–414–2665/Fax: 011–971–2–414– 2228, E-mail: Laurie.Farris@trade.gov. Elnora Moye, U.S. Department of Commerce, Commercial Service Trade Mission Program. [FR Doc. 2011–13923 Filed 6–6–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–FP–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:30 Jun 06, 2011 Jkt 223001 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration RIN 0648–XA474 Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Council to convene a public meeting. AGENCY: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will convene a meeting of the Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee. DATES: The meeting will convene at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 and conclude by 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 30, 2011. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held at the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council Office located at 2203 N. Lois Avenue, Suite 1100, Tampa, FL 33607. Council address: Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council, 2203 N. Lois Avenue, Suite 1100, Tampa, FL 33607. SUMMARY: Dr. Karen Burns, Ecosystem Management Specialist; Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council; telephone: (813) 348–1630. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee will meet to discuss the proposed short and long term work plan and conceptual framework for the Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee. The Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee will also discuss ecological, fishery, and social indicators, changes to the SEDAR process, an update on the shallow water grouper model and B.P. Oil Spill and elect an Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee chair and vice chair to serve for the next two years. Copies of the agenda and other related materials can be obtained by calling (813) 348–1630. Materials will also be available to download from the Gulf Council’s ftp site. Click on the ftp server under Quick Links, scroll to the Ecosystem folder. In the Ecosystem folder click on the directory named Ecosystem SSC meeting-2011–06. Although other non-emergency issues not on the agenda may come before the Ecosystem Scientific and Statistical Committee for discussion, in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), those issues may not be the subject of formal action during this meeting. Actions of the Working Group will be restricted to those issues specifically identified in the agenda and any issues arising after publication of this notice that require emergency action under Section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, provided the public has been notified of the Council’s intent to take action to address the emergency. Special Accommodations This meeting is physically accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Kathy Pereira at the Council (see ADDRESSES) at least 5 working days prior to the meeting. Dated: June 2, 2011. Tracey L. Thompson, Acting Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service. [FR Doc. 2011–13996 Filed 6–6–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–22–P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 RIN 0648–XA475 Fisheries of the South Atlantic; Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review (SEDAR); Public Meeting National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice of SEDAR 26 data/ assessment webinar for Caribbean silk snapper, queen snapper, and redtail parrotfish. AGENCY: The SEDAR 26 assessments of the South Caribbean silk snapper, queen snapper, and redtail parrotfish will consist of a series of workshops and webinars. This notice is for a webinar associated with the Data and Assessment portions of the SEDAR process. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. SUMMARY: The SEDAR 26 ‘post-data, preassessment’ webinar will be held July 1st, 2011 from 10 a.m. to approximately 1 p.m. Eastern time. The established times may be adjusted as necessary to accommodate the timely completion of discussion relevant to the assessment process. Such adjustments may result in the meeting being extended from, or completed prior to the time established by this notice. DATES: E:\FR\FM\07JNN1.SGM 07JNN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 109 (Tuesday, June 7, 2011)]
[Notices]
[Pages 32953-32956]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-13923]


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 DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

International Trade Administration


Transportation Infrastructure/Multimodal Products and Services 
Trade Mission to Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab 
Emirates

AGENCY: International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce.

ACTION: Notice.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Mission Description

    The U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, U.S. Commercial Service is organizing a senior 
executive-led trade mission for multimodal transportation and 
infrastructure development products and services to Doha, Qatar, and 
Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) on October 29-
November 3, 2011. The mission is designed to contribute to President 
Obama's National Export Initiative, which aims to double U.S. exports 
by 2015 while supporting two million American jobs, by increasing 
exports of products and services that contribute to infrastructure 
development projects in Qatar and U.A.E.
    The mission will help U.S. companies already doing business in 
Qatar or the U.A.E. increase their current level of exports and 
exposure, and will help experienced U.S. exporters, which have not yet 
done business in Qatar or the U.A.E. enter these markets in support of 
job creation in the United States. Participating firms will gain market 
information, connect with key business and government decision makers, 
solidify business strategies, and/or advance specific projects. In each 
of these important sectors, participating U.S. companies will meet with 
prescreened potential partners, agents,

[[Page 32954]]

distributors, representatives, and licensees. The agenda will also 
include meetings with high-level national and local government 
officials, networking opportunities, country briefings, and seminars.
    The industry sectors for this mission will include, but are not 
limited to: multimodal freight transportation systems, products and 
technologies, including port development, airport development, freight 
rail systems and technologies, supply chain systems and strategies; 
mass transportation systems; advanced vehicle technologies and 
intelligent transportation systems and related services and software; 
and other relevant products and services.
    The delegation will be composed of 15 qualified U.S. firms 
representing the industry sectors noted above. Representatives of the 
U.S. Department of Transportation and the Export-Import Bank of the 
United States (Ex-Im) will be invited to participate (as appropriate) 
to provide information and counseling on their programs as they relate 
to the markets in Qatar and the U.A.E.

Commercial Setting

Qatar

    The United States continues to be the largest exporter to Qatar, 
accounting for 14 percent of the total import market. U.S. exports have 
surged by 495 percent, from $454 million in 2003 to $2.7 billion in 
2009. Qatar is the fifth largest U.S. export destination in the Middle 
East, making it an important market for U.S. small- and medium-sized 
businesses.
    Qatar is one of the richest countries per capita in the world, with 
GDP per capita valued at $90,000. In 2010, total GDP was valued at $128 
billion. The IMF predicts that Qatar will grow by 20 percent in 2011. 
The World Bank announced that Qatar is the most economically 
competitive in the Middle East. Taken together, this has led foreign 
firms to increase their investment in Qatar's infrastructure, making it 
one of the most prosperous markets in the Middle East.
    Qatar's success in winning the 2022 World Cup Nation Host opens up 
a constellation of opportunities for U.S. business. The country plans 
to spend up to $100 billion in infrastructure projects between now and 
the World Cup in 2022, including roads, bridges, highways, railways, 
ports, and related consultancy services. Qatar's transportation 
infrastructure also benefits significantly with respect to Qatar's 
current domestic growth environment. Its road transportation structure 
has been operating at capacity, with a strong need to expand the 
system. Currently, road infrastructure is the only mode of 
transportation, which is one of the major causes for heavy congestion 
throughout the country. There are excellent opportunities for U.S. 
engineers, program management firms, and manufacturers to contribute to 
the creation of new transport infrastructure projects (i.e., railways, 
roads, ports, bridges, and highways), along with improved traffic 
safety systems.
    The Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim, has stated that a 
significant share of Qatar's budget will be for infrastructure 
development, and it will be completely self-financed. As much as 30 
percent of the budget is reportedly earmarked for infrastructure 
upgrades, such as the New Doha International Airport, New Doha Seaport, 
the Doha Expressway Project, roads, and related program management 
services. The country continues to maintain high levels of capital 
spending on major projects, which will reach $12 billion in 2010-2011 
compared with $10.4 billion in 2009-2010, representing a 15 percent 
year-on-year increase.

U.A.E.

    The U.A.E. is the largest U.S. export market in the Middle East/
North Africa region, the second largest economy in the region, and 
presents qualified American companies with opportunities to expand 
their products and services to a fast growing market. The U.A.E. is the 
logistics and business services hub for the wider region. The 2009 GDP 
for the U.A.E. was $231.3 billion and the 2009 per capita income was 
$42,000. Despite the recent global financial crisis, the United States 
and the U.A.E. have continued their long-term trade and investment 
relationship. Exports between both countries have increased almost 
every year since 1971, when the U.A.E. was established.
    The United States exported over $12 billion worth of products to 
the U.A.E. in 2009, representing a 237 percent increase since 2002. The 
United States is the third largest exporter to the U.A.E. and enjoys a 
very large trade surplus and a strong trading and investment 
relationship. The U.A.E. is among the Middle East region's leaders in 
terms of openness to international trade and investment and political 
stability. It has successfully developed itself into the largest 
logistics hub in the wider region, with the second-largest man-made 
port in the world at Jebel Ali, and the fourth busiest airport in the 
world. It is making major investments in infrastructure and economic 
diversification, resulting in significant export opportunities for U.S. 
firms. The U.A.E is developing key transportation infrastructure 
projects including: Port Khalifa and industrial zone at Taweelah; the 
new $8 billion Union Railway project; the $6.7 billion expansion of Abu 
Dhabi International Airport; the construction of the new Maktoum 
Airport, which will eventually have five runways; and public 
transportation systems, such as the expansion of the Dubai metro and 
the construction of the Abu Dhabi metro and light rail. The goods, 
services and know-how necessary for the construction and profitable 
operation of these new systems, particularly those related to 
multimodal freight and intelligent supply chain management, provides 
significant business opportunities in areas where U.S. companies excel. 
U.S. products enjoy favorable tariffs that generally do not exceed five 
percent.\1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ World Trade Organization: Latest Available MFN Applied 
Tariffs At HS 6 (2007).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Products and Services

    The foregoing analysis of export opportunities in Qatar and the 
U.A.E. is not intended to be exhaustive, but illustrative of the many 
opportunities in these markets available to U.S. businesses. Other 
products and services that contribute to the energy and infrastructure 
development of Qatar and the U.A.E. also may have great potential. 
Applications from companies selling products and services within the 
scope of this mission, but not specifically identified in this Mission 
Statement, will be considered and evaluated by the U.S. Department of 
Commerce. Companies whose products do not fit the scope of the mission 
may contact their local U.S. Export Assistance Center (USEAC) to learn 
about other trade missions and services that may provide more targeted 
export opportunities. Companies may call 1-800-872-8723, or e-mail: 
tic@trade.gov to obtain such information. This information also may be 
found on the Department's Web site: https://www.export.gov.

Mission Goals

    This Business Development Mission will demonstrate the United 
States' commitment to a sustained economic engagement with Qatar and 
the U.A.E. The mission will combine policy dialogue and business 
development for U.S. firms. Additionally, the mission will advance the 
Administration's goal to broaden and deepen the U.S. exporter base and 
support the President's National Export Initiative by providing 
individual participants with business

[[Page 32955]]

opportunities to achieve export success in these markets.
    In support of these goals, the mission's purpose is to support 
participants as they construct a firm foundation for future business in 
Qatar and the U.A.E., and specifically aims to:
     Provide participants with market information about the 
local infrastructure that will contribute to increasing U.S. exports to 
the Qatari and U.A.E. markets.
     Assist in identifying potential end-users and partners 
(including potential agents, distributors, and licensee partners) and 
business strategies for U.S. companies to gain access to the Qatari and 
U.A.E. markets.
     Provide an opportunity to participate in policy and 
regulatory framework discussions with Qatari and U.A.E. government 
officials and private sector representatives to advance U.S. market 
access interests in these markets.
     Confirm U.S. government support for U.S. business 
activities in Qatar and the U.A.E. and to provide access to senior 
government decision makers from Qatar and U.A.E.

Mission Scenario

    During the mission to Qatar and the U.A.E., the participants will:
     Meet with high-level Qatari and Emirati government 
officials.
     Meet with prescreened potential partners, agents, 
distributors, representatives and licensees.
     Meet with representatives of the Chambers of Commerce, 
industry and trade associations.
     Attend briefings conducted by Embassy officials on the 
economic and commercial climates.
    Receptions and other business events will be organized to provide 
mission participants with additional opportunities to speak with local 
business and government representatives, as well as U.S. business 
executives living and working in the region.

Proposed Timetable

    The mission program will begin at 5 p.m., Saturday, October 29, 
2011 and run through the evening of Thursday, November 3, 2011. 
Participants are encouraged to arrive on or before October 29, 2011.

Saturday, October 29 (weekend)

Doha, Qatar
    No-Host Welcome Dinner

Sunday, October 30

Doha, Qatar
    Market Briefing by U.S. Embassy Officials
    Meetings with Senior Qatari Government Officials
    Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives
    Networking Reception

Monday, October 31

Doha, Qatar
    One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation
    Evening Travel to Abu Dhabi, UAE

Tuesday, November 1

Abu Dhabi, UAE
    Market Briefing by U.S. Embassy Officials
    Meetings with Senior UAE and Abu Dhabi Government Officials
    Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives
    One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation
    Networking reception

Wednesday, November 2

Abu Dhabi, UAE
    One-on-one business matchmaking appointments
    Travel to Dubai
Dubai, UAE
    Networking reception

Thursday, November 3

Dubai, UAE
    Meetings with Senior Dubai Government Officials
    Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives
    One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation
    Closing Dinner

Participation Requirements

    All parties interested in participating in the Business Development 
Mission to Qatar and the U.A.E. must complete and timely 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. The mission is designed to select a a maximum of 15 companies 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 Department of Commerce in the form of a participation 
fee is required. The participation fee will be $4259 for large firms 
and $3707 for a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME),\2\ which will 
cover the principal (one) representative. The fee for each additional 
firm representative (large firm or SME) is $800. Local transportation, 
including transport between mission cities, is included in the 
participation fee.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ 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).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Expenses for travel, lodging, some meals, and incidentals will be 
the responsibility of each mission participant. Air transportation from 
the United States (or point of origin) to Qatar and return to the 
United States is the responsibility of the participant. Business visas 
may be required. Government fees and processing expenses to obtain such 
visas are also not included in the mission costs. However, the U.S. 
Department of Commerce will provide instructions to each participant on 
the procedures required to obtain necessary business visas.

Conditions for Participation

    An applicant must timely 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.
    Selection Criteria for Participation: Selection will be based on 
the following criteria in decreasing order of importance:
     Consistency of a company's products or services with the 
scope and desired outcome of the mission's goals;
     Suitability of a company's products or services to the 
Qatari and U.A.E. markets and the likelihood of a participating 
company's increased exports to or business interests in these markets 
as a result of this mission;
     Demonstrated export experience in Qatar, the U.A.E., or 
other foreign markets;
    Additional factors, such as diversity of company size, type, 
location, and

[[Page 32956]]

demographics, may also be considered during the review process.
    Referrals from political organizations and any documents, including 
the application, containing references to partisan political activities 
(including political contributions) will be removed from an applicant's 
submission and not considered during the selection process.

Selection Timeline

    Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner, 
including publication in the Federal Register, posting on the Commerce 
Department trade mission calendar--https://www.trade.gov/trade-missions/
--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 Commerce Department's Office of Business Liaison and the 
International Trade Administration will explore and welcome outreach 
assistance from other interested organizations, including other U.S. 
government agencies. Applications can be completed on-line at the Qatar 
and U.A.E. Business Development Mission Web site at https://www.trade.gov/QatarUAEMission2011 or can be obtained by contacting 
Jessica Arnold (202-482-1856/qataruaemission2011@trade.gov). The 
application deadline is Monday June 20, 2011, unless extended by the 
Department of Commerce. Applications received after Monday, June 20, 
2011, will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints 
permit.

Contacts

U.S. Commercial Service Domestic Contact

    Ms. Jessica Arnold, Phone: (202) 482-2026/Fax: (202) 482-1900, E-
mail: QatarUAEMission2011@trade.gov.

U.S. Commercial Service Qatar Contact

    Mr. Dao Le, U.S. Commercial Service, Doha, Qatar, Tel: 011- 974-
488-4101/Fax: 011-974-488-4163, E-mail: Dao.Le@trade.gov.

U.S. Commercial Service U.A.E. Contact

    Ms. Laurie Farris, U.S. Commercial Service, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Phone: 
011-971-2-414-2665/Fax: 011-971-2-414-2228, E-mail: 
Laurie.Farris@trade.gov.

Elnora Moye,
U.S. Department of Commerce, Commercial Service Trade Mission Program.
[FR Doc. 2011-13923 Filed 6-6-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-FP-P
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