Transportation Infrastructure/Multimodal Products and Services Trade Mission to Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 38614-38617 [2011-16549]

Download as PDF 38614 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 127 / Friday, July 1, 2011 / Notices mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES6 public on the Department’s Internet Web site at the following address: ‘‘https://ia.ita.doc.gov/sunset/.’’ All submissions in these Sunset Reviews must be filed in accordance with the Department’s regulations regarding format, translation, and service of documents. These rules can be found at 19 CFR 351.303. This notice serves as a reminder that any party submitting factual information in an antidumping duty or countervailing duty (AD/CVD) proceeding must certify to the accuracy and completeness of that information. See section 782(b) of the Act. Parties are hereby reminded that revised certification requirements are in effect for company/government officials as well as their representatives in all AD/ CVD investigations or proceedings initiated on or after March 14, 2011. See Certification of Factual Information to Import Administration During Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings: Interim Final Rule, 76 FR 7491 (February 10, 2011) (Interim Final Rule), amending 19 CFR 351.303(g)(1) and (2). The formats for the revised certifications are provided at the end of the Interim Final Rule. The Department intends to reject factual submissions in investigations/proceedings initiated on or after March 14, 2011 if the submitting party does not comply with the revised certification requirements. Pursuant to 19 CFR 351.103(d), the Department will maintain and make available a service list for these proceedings. To facilitate the timely preparation of the service list(s), it is requested that those seeking recognition as interested parties to a proceeding contact the Department in writing within 10 days of the publication of the Notice of Initiation. Because deadlines in Sunset Reviews can be very short, we urge interested parties to apply for access to proprietary information under administrative protective order (‘‘APO’’) immediately following publication in the Federal Register of this notice of initiation by filing a notice of intent to participate. The Department’s regulations on submission of proprietary information and eligibility to receive access to business proprietary information under APO can be found at 19 CFR 351.304– 306. Information Required from Interested Parties Domestic interested parties defined in section 771(9)(C), (D), (E), (F), and (G) of the Act and 19 CFR 351.102(b) wishing to participate in a Sunset Review must respond not later than 15 days after the date of publication in the Federal VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:54 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 223001 Register of this notice of initiation by filing a notice of intent to participate. The required contents of the notice of intent to participate are set forth at 19 CFR 351.218(d)(1)(ii). In accordance with the Department’s regulations, if we do not receive a notice of intent to participate from at least one domestic interested party by the 15-day deadline, the Department will automatically revoke the order without further review. See 19 CFR 351.218(d)(1)(iii). If we receive an order-specific notice of intent to participate from a domestic interested party, the Department’s regulations provide that all parties wishing to participate in the Sunset Review must file complete substantive responses not later than 30 days after the date of publication in the Federal Register of this notice of initiation. The required contents of a substantive response, on an order-specific basis, are set forth at 19 CFR 351.218(d)(3). Note that certain information requirements differ for respondent and domestic parties. Also, note that the Department’s information requirements are distinct from the Commission’s information requirements. Please consult the Department’s regulations for information regarding the Department’s conduct of Sunset Reviews.1 Please consult the Department’s regulations at 19 CFR Part 351 for definitions of terms and for other general information concerning AD/CVD proceedings at the Department. This notice of initiation is being published in accordance with section 751(c) of the Act and 19 CFR 351.218(c). Dated: June 21, 2011. Christian Marsh, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Operations. [FR Doc. 2011–16623 Filed 6–30–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–DS–P 1 In comments made on the interim final sunset regulations, a number of parties stated that the proposed five-day period for rebuttals to substantive responses to a notice of initiation was insufficient. This requirement was retained in the final sunset regulations at 19 CFR 351.218(d)(4). As provided in 19 CFR 351.302(b), however, the Department will consider individual requests to extend that five-day deadline based upon a showing of good cause. PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 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 multi-modal 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, 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 E:\FR\FM\01JYN1.SGM 01JYN1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 127 / Friday, July 1, 2011 / Notices Commercial Setting 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% yearon-year increase. Qatar The United States continues to be the largest exporter to Qatar, accounting for 14% 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% 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% of the budget is reportedly earmarked for infrastructure upgrades, 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 multi-modal freight and intelligent supply chain management, provides significant business opportunities in areas where U.S. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES6 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:54 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 223001 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 38615 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 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 1 World Trade Organization: Latest Available MFN Applied Tariffs At HS 6 (2007). E:\FR\FM\01JYN1.SGM 01JYN1 38616 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 127 / Friday, July 1, 2011 / Notices 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 Saturday, October 29 (weekend) ................................................................ Sunday October 30 ..................................................................................... Monday, October 31 .................................................................................... Tuesday, November 1 ................................................................................. Wednesday, November 2 ............................................................................ Thursday, November 3 ................................................................................ Participation Requirements mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES6 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:54 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 223001 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). Frm 00018 Fmt 4703 Proposed Timetable The mission program will begin at 5:00 pm, 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. Doha, Qatar. No-Host Welcome Dinner. Doha, Qatar. Market Briefing by U.S. Embassy Officials. Meetings with Senior Qatari Government Officials. Business Event/Briefing with Local Industry Representatives. Networking Reception. Doha, Qatar. One-on-One Business Meetings for the Delegation. Evening Travel to Abu Dhabi, UAE. 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. Abu Dhabi, UAE. One-on-one business matchmaking appointments. Travel to Dubai Dubai, UAE. Networking reception. 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. 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 PO 00000 business and government representatives, as well as U.S. business executives living and working in the region. Sfmt 4703 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: E:\FR\FM\01JYN1.SGM 01JYN1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 127 / Friday, July 1, 2011 / Notices • 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 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. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES6 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 online 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, July 15th, 2011, unless extended by the Department of Commerce. Applications received after Monday, July 15th, 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, VerDate Mar<15>2010 18:54 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 223001 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, Tel: 202– 482–4204, E-mail: elnora.moye@trade.gov. [FR Doc. 2011–16549 Filed 6–30–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510–FP–P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Fishermen’s Contingency Fund AGENCY: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Department of Commerce, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. DATES: Written comments must be submitted on or before August 30, 2011. ADDRESSES: Direct all written comments to Diana Hynek, Departmental Paperwork Clearance Officer, Department of Commerce, Room 6616, 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230 (or via the Internet at dHynek@doc.gov). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information or copies of the information collection instrument and instructions should be directed to Paul Marx, Chief, Financial Services Division (301) 427–8725 or paul.marx@noaa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract United States (U.S.) commercial fishermen may file claims for compensation for losses of or damage to fishing gear or vessels, plus 50 percent of resulting economic losses, attributable to oil and gas activities on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. To PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 38617 obtain compensation, applicants must comply with requirements set forth in 50 CFR part 296. The requirements include a report within 15 days of the date the vessel first returns to port after the incident, to gain a presumption of eligible causation, and an application form. The report form (NOAA Form 88–166) requests identifying information such as the claimant’s name, address, phone number, and social security number. It also requests information pertaining to the casualty, such as the location of the obstruction, the date and time of the casualty, identification of the vessel involved, and the date the vessel first returned to port after the casualty. The application (NOAA Form 88–164) consists of a property loss section and a section for economic loss. The property loss section requests the same identifying information contained in the initial report. It also requests information such as the amount and type of damage claimed, description of the casualty and likely causes, efforts to recover gear, description of proofs of ownership, estimates of repair or replacement costs, and identification of witnesses. The economic loss section requests information pertaining to economic loss and consequential damages resulting from the casualty. This includes the length of trips and income from those trips prior to the casualty, number of gear units lost, date replacement gear was ordered and received or the date repairs were commenced and completed. This section also requests information regarding consequential damages such as extra fuel consumption or claim preparation fees. The application also includes inventory schedules which lists the amounts of gear involved in the casualty, its purchase date, purchase cost, and repair or replacement cost. The application includes an affidavit by which the claimant attests to the truthfulness of the claim. II. Method of Collection Paper forms are used for applications, and reports are made by telephone. III. Data OMB Control Number: 0648–0082. Form Number: NOAA Forms 88–164, 88–166. Type of Review: Regular submission (extension of a currently approved information collection). Affected Public: Individuals or households; business or other for-profit organizations. Estimated Number of Respondents: 100. E:\FR\FM\01JYN1.SGM 01JYN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 127 (Friday, July 1, 2011)]
[Notices]
[Pages 38614-38617]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-16549]


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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 multi-modal 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, 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

[[Page 38615]]

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% 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% 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% 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% 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 multi-
modal 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 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

[[Page 38616]]

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 5:00 pm, 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:

[[Page 38617]]

     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 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, July 15th, 2011, unless extended by the Department of 
Commerce. Applications received after Monday, July 15th, 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, 
Tel: 202-482-4204, E-mail: elnora.moye@trade.gov.
[FR Doc. 2011-16549 Filed 6-30-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-FP-P
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