Emerging Markets Program, 69985-69993 [2019-27246]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
• Commodity Credit Corporation

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 245 (Friday, December 20, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69985-69993]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-27246]



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Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

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Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 245 / Friday, December 20, 2019 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 69985]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Commodity Credit Corporation

7 CFR Part 1486

RIN 0551-AA95


Emerging Markets Program

AGENCY: Commodity Credit Corporation and Foreign Agricultural Service, 
USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule is revising the Emerging Markets Program (EMP) 
regulations to incorporate legislative changes introduced in the 
Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 and to incorporate changes that 
conform the operation of the program to the requirements in the 
``Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit 
Requirements for Federal Awards'' (Uniform Guidance) and Federal grant-
making best practices.

DATES: This rule is effective on December 20, 2019.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Curt Alt, (202) 690-4784, 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The EMP is authorized by Section 203 of the Agricultural Trade Act 
of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 5623), as amended. The EMP regulations appear at 7 
CFR part 1486. The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-
334), which reauthorized the program for fiscal years 2019-2023, 
introduced legislative changes to the program that improve the 
program's flexibility and usefulness to stakeholders, such as the 
delinking of proposed technical assistance activities from an 
assessment and an expansion of permitted travel activities. In 
addition, this rule updates the regulations to bring the operation of 
the program into conformance with the requirements in the Uniform 
Guidance. Additional changes are desirable to bring the administration 
of the program into line with the current best practices in Federal 
grantmaking.

Notice and Comment

    This rule is being issued as a final rule without prior notice and 
opportunity for comment. The Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 
553) exempts rules ``relating . . . to public property, loans, grants, 
benefits, or contracts'' from the statutory requirements for prior 
notice and opportunity for comment and publication of the rule not less 
than 30 days before its effective date (5 U.S.C. 553(a)(2)). 
Accordingly, this final rule is effective when published in the Federal 
Register.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance

    The program covered by this regulation is listed in the Catalog of 
Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) under the following FAS CFDA number: 
10.603, Emerging Markets Program.

E-Government Act Compliance

    The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is committed to complying 
with the E-Government Act of 2002 (44 U.S.C. chapter 36), to promote 
the use of the internet and other information technologies to provide 
increased opportunities for citizens' access to Government information 
and services, and for other purposes.

Executive Order 12988

    This rule has been reviewed in accordance with Executive Order 
12988, ``Civil Justice Reform.'' This rule does not preempt State or 
local laws, regulations, or policies unless they present an 
irreconcilable conflict with this rule. This rule will not be 
retroactive.

Executive Order 12372

    Executive Order 12372, ``Intergovernmental Review of Federal 
Programs,'' requires consultation with officials of State and local 
governments that would be directly affected by the proposed Federal 
financial assistance. The objectives of the Executive order are to 
foster an intergovernmental partnership and a strengthened federalism 
by relying on State and local processes for the State and local 
government coordination and review of proposed Federal financial 
assistance and direct Federal development. This rule will not directly 
affect State or local governments, and, for this reason, it is excluded 
from the scope of Executive Order 12372.

Executive Order 12866 and 13563

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). Executive 
Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and 
benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting 
flexibility. This final rule has been determined to be not significant 
and was not reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in 
conformance with Executive Order 12866.

Congressional Review Act

    Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), 
the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has designated this 
rule as not a major rule, as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).

Executive Order 13175

    This rule has been reviewed for compliance with Executive Order 
13175, ``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments.'' Executive Order 13175 requires Federal agencies to 
consult and coordinate with tribes on a government-to-government basis 
on policies that have tribal implications, including regulations, 
legislative comments, proposed legislation, and other policy statements 
or actions that have substantial direct effects on one or more Indian 
tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian 
tribes or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the 
Federal Government and Indian tribes. FAS has assessed the impact of 
this rule on Indian tribes and determined that this rule does not, to 
the knowledge of FAS, have tribal implications that require tribal 
consultation under Executive Order 13175. If a tribe requests 
consultation, FAS will work with USDA Office of Tribal Relations to 
ensure meaningful consultation is provided where changes, additions, 
and

[[Page 69986]]

modifications identified herein are not expressly mandated by Congress.

Executive Order 13771

    Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to reduce regulation and 
control regulatory costs and provides that for every new regulation 
issued, at least two prior regulations be identified for elimination, 
and that the cost of planned regulations be prudently managed and 
controlled through a budgeting process. This rule is not an Executive 
Order 13771 regulatory action because this rule is not significant 
under Executive Order 12866.

List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 1486

    Agricultural commodities, Exports.

0
For the reasons discussed in the preamble, 7 CFR part 1486 is revised 
to read as follows:

PART 1486--EMERGING MARKETS PROGRAM

Sec.
Subpart A--General Information
1486.100 General purpose and scope.
1486.101 Definitions.
1486.102 Regional projects.
Subpart B--Eligibility, Applications, and Funding
1486.200 Participation eligibility.
1486.201 Eligible commodities.
1486.202 Application process.
1486.203 Application review and formation of agreements.
1486.204 Funding limits.
Subpart C--Program Operations
1486.300 Applicant notification.
1486.301 Amendments.
1486.302 Subrecipients.
Subpart D--Cost Share and Reimbursements
1486.400 Cost share.
1486.401 Eligible cost share.
1486.402 Ineligible cost share.
1486.403 Reimbursement rules.
1486.404 Ineligible expenditures.
1486.405 Reimbursement procedures.
1486.406 Advances.
Subpart E--Reporting, Evaluation, and Compliance
1486.500 Reports.
1486.501 Evaluation.
1486.502 Compliance reviews and notices.
1486.503 Records retention.
1486.504 Program income.
1486.505 Audit requirements.
1486.506 Disclosure of program information.
1486.507 Ethical conduct.
1486.508 Suspension and termination.
1486.509 Noncompliance with an agreement.
1486.510 Paperwork reduction requirements.

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 5623, 5662-5663.

Subpart A--General Information


Sec.  1486.100  General purpose and scope.

    (a) The E (Kika) de la Garza Emerging Markets Program (EMP) is 
established to develop, maintain, or expand markets for exports of 
United States agricultural commodities and to promote cooperation and 
exchange of information between agricultural institutions and 
agribusinesses in the United States and emerging markets. While the 
program is primarily intended to support the export market development 
efforts of the private sector, the program's resources may also be used 
to assist public agricultural organizations.
    (b) This part sets forth the general terms, conditions, and 
policies governing the Commodity Credit Corporation's (CCC) operation 
of the EMP.
    (c)(1) The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued guidance on 
Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit 
Requirements for Federal Awards in 2 CFR part 200. In 2 CFR 400.1, the 
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) adopted OMB's guidance in 
subparts A through F of 2 CFR part 200, as supplemented by 2 CFR part 
400, as USDA policies and procedures for uniform administrative 
requirements, cost principles, and audit requirements for Federal 
awards.
    (2) The OMB guidance at 2 CFR part 200, as supplemented by 2 CFR 
part 400 and this part, applies to the EMP.
    (3) In addition to the provisions of this part, other regulations 
that are generally applicable to grants and cooperative agreements of 
USDA, including the applicable regulations set forth in 2 CFR chapters 
I, II, IV, also apply to the EMP, to the extent that these regulations 
do not directly conflict with the provisions of this part. The 
provisions of the CCC Charter Act (15 U.S.C. 714 et seq.) and any other 
statutory or regulatory provisions that are generally applicable to CCC 
also apply to the EMP.
    (d) Under the EMP, CCC provides grants to eligible U.S. private or 
government entities who demonstrate a role or interest in the export of 
U.S. agricultural commodities to conduct assessments of food and rural 
business system needs of emerging markets, make recommendations on 
measures necessary to enhance the effectiveness of such systems, 
including potential reductions in trade barriers, and identify and 
carry out specific opportunities and projects to enhance the 
effectiveness of such systems. The EMP may only be used to support 
exports of U.S. agricultural commodities through generic activities.
    (e) Only initiatives that support the export of U.S. agricultural 
commodities are eligible for assistance under the program. The 
program's resources may not be used to support the export of another 
country's products to the United States or another country, or to 
promote the development of a foreign economy as a primary objective.
    (f) The EMP generally operates on a reimbursement basis. The 
program is administered by the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) 
acting on behalf of CCC.
    (g) EMP recipients are responsible for complying with all 
applicable laws and regulations.


Sec.  1486.101  Definitions.

    For purposes of this part, the following definitions apply:
    Activities means components of a project that carries out one or 
more statutorily-authorized activities, e.g., activities that assess 
the food and rural business system needs of emerging markets; promote 
information exchange with such markets; and/or carry out 
recommendations, projects, and opportunities in emerging markets to 
enhance the effectiveness of such systems.
    Agreement means a legally binding grant entered into between CCC 
and an EMP applicant setting forth the terms and conditions of approved 
activities under the EMP, including any subsequent amendments to such 
agreement.
    Approval letter means a document by which CCC informs an applicant 
that its EMP proposal has been approved for funding. This letter may 
also approve specific activities and contain terms and conditions in 
addition to the agreement.
    Attach[eacute]/Counselor means the FAS employee representing United 
States Department of Agriculture interests in a foreign country.
    Cost share means the portion of project costs not paid by Federal 
funds (unless otherwise authorized by Federal statute). In terms of the 
EMP program, cost share is the funds provided by the Recipient, the 
U.S. industry, or a State agency in support of an approved activity.
    Emerging market means generally any country, foreign territory, 
customs union, or other economic market that CCC determines is taking 
steps toward a market-oriented economy through its food, agriculture, 
or rural business sectors of the economy and has the potential to 
provide a viable and significant market for U.S. agricultural 
commodities. CCC has determined that

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any country that is not designated as a high-income country by the 
World Bank is an eligible emerging market under this program. The World 
Bank periodically redefines the income limits for its country 
classification. Consequently, the list of ``emerging market'' countries 
may change over time. CCC will provide guidance on country eligibility 
in each program announcement.
    Generic activities mean an activity that does not involve or 
promote the exclusive or predominant use of an individual company name, 
logo, or brand name, or the brand of a U.S. agricultural cooperative, 
but rather promotes a U.S. agricultural commodity generally.
    Project means an approach or undertaking made up of one or more 
activities that, taken together, carries out one or more statutorily-
authorized activities under the EMP (e.g., activities that assess the 
food and rural business system needs of emerging markets and develop 
recommendations on measures necessary to enhance the effectiveness of 
such systems; promote information exchange with such markets; or 
identify and carry out specific recommendations, opportunities, or 
projects to enhance the effectiveness of such systems).
    Project funds means the funds made available to a Recipient by CCC 
under an agreement and authorized for expenditure in accordance with 
this part.
    Proposal means an application for funding.
    Recipient means a U.S. entity receiving financial assistance from 
CCC to carry out a project under the EMP.
    SRTG is the acronym for State Regional Trade Group. An STRG is a 
non-profit association of state-funded agricultural promotion agencies.
    STRE is the acronym for sales and trade relations expenditures. 
Expenditures made on breakfast, lunch, dinner, receptions, and 
refreshments at approved activities; miscellaneous courtesies such as 
checkroom fees, taxi fares and tips for approved activities; and 
decorations for a special promotional occasion that is part of an 
approved activity.
    Unified Export Strategy (UES) system means an online internet 
system maintained by FAS through which applicants may apply to the EMP 
and other FAS market development programs. The system is currently 
accessible at https://apps.fas.usda.gov/ues/webapp/. FAS may prescribe 
a different system through which applicants may apply to EMP and will 
announce such system in the applicable Notice of Funding Opportunity 
(NOFO).
    U.S. agricultural commodity means any agricultural commodity of 
U.S. origin, including food, feed, fiber, forestry product, livestock, 
insects, and fish harvested from a U.S. aquaculture farm or harvested 
by a vessel (as defined in Title 46 of the United States Code) in 
waters that are not waters (including the territorial sea) of a foreign 
country, and any product thereof.


Sec.  1486.102   Regional projects.

    Projects that focus on regions, such as the Caribbean Basin, rather 
than individual countries are eligible for consideration provided such 
projects target qualifying emerging markets in the specified region. 
CCC may also consider activities that target qualified emerging markets 
in a specific region but are conducted in a non-emerging market because 
of its importance as a central location and ease of access to that 
region.

Subpart B--Eligibility, Applications, and Funding


Sec.  1486.200  Participation eligibility.

    (a) To participate in the EMP, U.S. private or government entities 
must demonstrate a role or interest in the exports of U.S. agricultural 
commodities. Government organizations consist of Federal, state, and 
local agencies. Private entities include non-profit trade associations, 
universities, agricultural cooperatives, SRTGs, consulting businesses, 
research institutions, and profit-making entities. Foreign 
organizations, whether government or private, may participate as 
subrecipients in activities carried out by U.S. entities, but are not 
eligible for direct funding assistance from the program.
    (b) Proposals from research and consulting entities will be 
considered for funding assistance only with evidence of substantial 
participation in and financial support to the proposed project by U.S. 
industry. Such support is most credibly demonstrated through actual 
monetary contributions to the cost of the project.
    (c) For-profit entities shall not use program funds to conduct 
private business, promote private self-interests, or promote their own 
products or services beyond specific uses approved in a given project. 
For-profit entities shall not use program funds to supplement the costs 
of normal day-to-day operations.


Sec.  1486.201   Eligible commodities.

    Any agricultural commodity or product thereof, excluding tobacco, 
that is comprised of at least 50 percent by weight, exclusive of added 
water, of agricultural commodities grown or raised in the United States 
is eligible for funding. Projects that seek support for multiple 
commodities are also eligible.


Sec.  1486.202  Application process.

    (a) Announcement of accepting EMP applicants. CCC will periodically 
announce that it is accepting applications for participation in the 
EMP. All relevant information, including application deadlines and 
proposal content, will be noted in the announcement, and proposals must 
be submitted in accordance with the terms and requirements specified in 
the announcement and in this part. Currently, applicants are encouraged 
to submit applications through the UES system but are not required to 
do so. CCC may request any additional information it deems necessary 
from any applicant in order to properly evaluate any proposal.
    (b) Universal identifier and System for Award Management (SAM). In 
accordance with 2 CFR part 25, each entity that applies to the EMP and 
does not qualify for an exemption under 2 CFR 25.110 must:
    (1) Be registered in the SAM prior to submitting an application or 
plan;
    (2) Maintain an active SAM registration with current information at 
all times during which it has an active Federal award or an application 
or plan under consideration by CCC; and
    (3) Provide its DUNS number, or a unique identifier designated as a 
DUNS replacement, in each application or plan it submits to CCC.
    (c) Reporting subaward and executive compensation information. In 
accordance with 2 CFR part 170, each entity that applies to the EMP and 
does not qualify for an exception under 2 CFR 170.110(b) must ensure it 
has the necessary processes and systems in place to comply with the 
applicable reporting requirements of 2 CFR part 170 should it receive 
EMP funding.


Sec.  1486.203  Application review and formation of agreements.

    (a) General. Proposals received in accordance with the announcement 
and this part will undergo a multi-phase review by CCC to determine 
eligibility for the program, the qualifications, quality, and 
appropriateness of proposed projects, and the reasonableness of 
proposed project budgets.
    (b) Evaluation criteria. CCC will review all proposals for 
eligibility and completeness. CCC will evaluate and score each proposal 
against the factors

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described in the NOFO. All proposals that meet the eligibility and 
completeness criteria described in the NOFO and receive a passing score 
will be recommended for funding to the FAS Administrator. The purpose 
of this review is to identify meritorious proposals, recommend an 
appropriate funding level for each proposal, and submit the proposals 
and funding recommendations to appropriate officials for decision. CCC 
may, when appropriate to the subject matter of the proposal, request 
the assistance of other U.S. Government experts in evaluating the 
merits of a proposal. Demonstration of substantial U.S. industry 
participation in or financial or other support of a proposal will be a 
positive factor in the consideration of proposals. The degree of 
commitment to a proposed project, represented by the amount and type of 
cost share, is used in determining which proposals will be approved. 
Proposals in which the private sector is willing to commit funds, 
rather than in-kind items such as staff resources, and those with 
higher amounts of cost share will be given priority consideration. All 
reviewers will be required to sign a conflict of interest form, and 
when conflicts of interests are identified the reviewer will be recused 
from the objective review process.
    (c) Approval decision. CCC will approve those applications that it 
determines best satisfy the criteria and factors specified in the 
announcement and this part. All decisions regarding the disposition of 
an application are final.


Sec.  1486.204  Funding limits.

    (a) The EMP is a relatively small program intended to develop, 
maintain, or expand access to qualified emerging markets. Its funds are 
intended for focused projects with specific activities, rather than 
expansive concept papers that contain only broad ideas. Large, overly 
expensive projects (i.e., in excess of $500,000) will not be funded.
    (b) CCC will not reimburse 100 percent of the cost of any project 
undertaken by the private sector. The program is intended to provide 
appropriate assistance to projects that have significant financial 
contributions from other sources, especially U.S. private industry.
    (c) Proposals for projects exceeding one year in duration may be 
considered, but proposals for projects that last longer than five years 
will not be considered. If approved, funding for multi-year projects 
may be provided one year at a time, with commitments beyond the first-
year subject to interim evaluations intended to assess the progress of 
the project toward meeting its intended objectives.
    (d) Funding for continuing and substantially similar projects is 
generally limited to three calendar years, although FAS will entertain 
requests to extend an agreement's expiration date up to a maximum of 
five calendar years. After that time, the project is assumed to have 
proven its viability and, if necessary, should be continued by the 
Recipient with its own or with alternative sources of funding. 
Recipients must submit in writing a valid justification for why an 
extension is necessary no later than 60 days before the end of the 
period of performance. If warranted, extensions generally will be 
granted in one-year increments. Recipients must wait for written 
approval from FAS before proceeding with the project.

Subpart C--Program Operations


Sec.  1486.300  Applicant notification.

    (a) CCC will notify each applicant in writing of the final decision 
on its application. CCC will send an agreement and an approval letter 
to each approved applicant. An applicant that accepts the terms and 
conditions contained in the agreement must so indicate by having the 
appropriate authorizing official sign the agreement and return it to 
CCC. The applicant may not begin to implement approved activities until 
the applicant's authorizing official and CCC have signed the agreement. 
The applicant is authorized to begin implementation of the project as 
of the date specified in the approval letter, unless otherwise 
indicated.
    (b) The approval letter and agreement will outline the activities 
and budgets that are approved and will specify the terms and conditions 
applicable to the project, including the levels of EMP funding and 
cost-share requirements.


Sec.  1486.301  Amendments.

    (a) Recipients may request to modify approved projects if 
circumstances change in such a way that they would likely affect the 
progress and ultimate success of a project. Such modification must be 
made through a written amendment to the agreement. All requests for 
project modifications must be made in writing to CCC and must include:
    (1) A justification as to why changes to the project as originally 
designed are needed;
    (2) An explanation of the necessary adjustments in approach or 
strategy; and
    (3) A description of necessary changes in the project's time 
line(s) and/or budget (e.g., shifting of budgetary resources from one-
line item to another in order to accommodate the changes).
    (b) All requests for project modifications must be reviewed and 
approved by CCC. Upon approval, CCC will issue an amendment to the 
agreement, which must be signed by CCC and the Recipient.


Sec.  1486.302  Subrecipients.

    (a) A Recipient may utilize the services of a subrecipient to 
implement activities under the agreement if this is provided for in the 
agreement. The subrecipient may receive CCC-provided funds, program 
income, or other resources from the Recipient for this purpose. The 
Recipient must enter in to a written subaward with the subrecipient and 
comply with the applicable provisions of 2 CFR 200.331 and/or the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), if applicable. If required by the 
agreement, the Recipient must provide a copy of such subaward to FAS, 
in the manner set forth in the agreement, prior to the transfer of CCC-
provided funds or program income to the subrecipient.
    (b) A Recipient must include the following requirements in a 
subaward:
    (1) The subrecipient is required to comply with the applicable 
provisions of this part and 2 CFR parts 200 and 400 and/or the FAR, if 
applicable. The applicable provisions are those that relate 
specifically to subrecipients, as well as those relating to non-Federal 
entities that impose requirements that would be reasonable to pass 
through to a subrecipient because they directly concern the 
implementation by the subrecipient of one or more activities under the 
agreement. If there is a question about whether a particular provision 
is applicable, FAS will make the determination.
    (2) The subrecipient must pay to the Recipient the value of CCC-
provided funds, interest, or program income that are not used in 
accordance with the subaward, or that are lost, damaged, or misused as 
a result of the subrecipient's failure to exercise reasonable care.
    (3) In accordance with 2 CFR 200.501(h), subawards must include a 
description of the applicable compliance requirements and the 
subrecipient's compliance responsibility. Methods to ensure compliance 
may include pre-award audits, monitoring during the agreement, and 
post-award audits.
    (c) A Recipient must monitor the actions of a subrecipient as 
necessary to ensure that CCC-provided funds and

[[Page 69989]]

program income provided to the subrecipient are used for authorized 
purposes in compliance with applicable U.S. Federal laws and 
regulations and the subaward and that performance indicator targets are 
achieved for both activities and results under the agreement.
    (d) Recipients have full and sole responsibility for the legal 
sufficiency of all subawards they may enter into with one or more 
subrecipients in order to carry out an approved project and shall 
assume financial liability for any costs or claims resulting from 
suits, challenges, or other disputes based on subawards entered into by 
the Recipient. Neither CCC nor any other agency of the United States 
Government nor any official or employee of CCC, FAS, USDA, or the 
United States Government has any obligation or responsibility with 
respect to Recipient subawards with third parties.
    (e) Recipients are responsible for ensuring to the greatest extent 
possible that the terms, conditions, and costs of subawards constitute 
the most economical and effective use of project funds.
    (f) All fees for professional and technical services paid to 
subrecipients in any part with project funds must be covered by written 
subawards.
    (g) A Recipient shall:
    (1) Ensure that all expenditures for goods and services in excess 
of $25 reimbursed by CCC are documented by a purchase order or invoice;
    (2) Ensure that no employee, officer, board member, agent, or the 
employee's, officer's, board member's, or agent's family, partners, or 
an organization that employs or is about to employ any of the parties 
indicated herein, participates in the review, selection, award or 
administration of a subaward in which such entities or their affiliates 
have a financial or other interest;
    (3) Conduct all contracting in an openly competitive manner. 
Individuals who develop or draft specifications, requirements, 
statements of work, invitations for bids, or requests for proposals for 
procurement of any goods or services, and such individuals' families or 
partners, or an organization that employs or is about to employ any of 
the aforementioned shall be excluded from competition for such 
procurement;
    (4) Conduct all awarding of grants and agreements in an openly 
competitive manner, except under the following conditions:
    (i) Non-monetary awards of property or services;
    (ii) Awards of less than $75,000;
    (iii) Awards to fund continuing work already started under a 
previous award;
    (iv) Awards that cannot be delayed due to an emergency or a 
substantial danger to health or safety;
    (v) Awards when it is impracticable to secure competition; or
    (vi) Awards to fund unique and innovative unsolicited applications;
    (5) Base each solicitation for professional or technical services 
on a clear and accurate description of and requirements related to the 
services to be procured;
    (6) Perform and document some form of fee, price, or cost analysis, 
such as a comparison of price quotations to market prices or other 
price indicia, to determine the reasonableness of the offered fees or 
prices for procurements in excess of the simplified acquisition 
threshold defined at 2 CFR 200.88; and
    (7) Document the decision-making process.

Subpart D--Cost Share and Reimbursements


Sec.  1486.400  Cost share.

    (a) The EMP is intended to complement, not supplant, the efforts of 
the U.S. private sector. Therefore, no private sector proposal will be 
considered without the element of cost share from the Recipient and/or 
U.S. partners.
    (b) There is no minimum or maximum required amount of cost share. 
The degree of commitment to a proposed project, represented by the 
amount and type of private funding, is used as one factor in 
determining which proposals will be approved. The type of cost share is 
also not specified, though some contributions are ineligible (see Sec.  
1486.402). Cost share may be actual cash invested or professional time 
of staff assigned to the project. Proposals in which the private sector 
is willing to commit funds, rather than in-kind items such as staff 
resources, and those with higher amounts of cost share will be given 
priority consideration.
    (c) Cost share is not required for proposals from Federal, state, 
or local government agencies. It is mandatory from all other eligible 
entities, even when they are party to a joint proposal with a 
government agency.
    (d) Contributions from foreign (non-U.S.) organizations may not be 
counted toward the cost share requirement but may be included in the 
total cost of the project.
    (e) An activity that is undertaken by an entity at the request of 
FAS may be exempted from the cost share requirement. This determination 
is made at the discretion of FAS.
    (f) A Recipient's cost share requirement will be specified in the 
agreement and approval letter. If a Recipient fails to contribute the 
total specified in the agreement, the difference between the amount 
contributed and the total amount required must be repaid to CCC in U.S. 
dollars within six months after the end of the period of performance of 
the agreement. If a Recipient is reimbursed by CCC for less than the 
amount of funds approved in the agreement, then the final required cost 
share shall equal, on a percentage basis, the original ratio of cost 
share to the authorized EMP funding level.


Sec.  1486.401  Eligible cost share.

    (a) In calculating the amount of cost share that it will make and 
the cost share U.S. entities or a State or local agency will make, a 
Recipient may include those costs (or such prorated costs) not 
proscribed under Sec.  1486.402 if:
    (1) The expenditures are necessary and reasonable for 
accomplishment of the Recipient's overall EMP;
    (2) The expenditures are not included as cost share for any other 
Federal award;
    (3) The expenditures are not paid by the Federal Government under 
another Federal award, except where the Federal statute authorizing a 
program specifically provides that Federal funds made available for 
such program can be applied to matching or cost sharing requirements of 
other Federal programs; and
    (4) The cost share is made during the period covered by the 
agreement.
    (b) Cost share must be included in a project's line item budget.


Sec.  1486.402  Ineligible cost share.

    (a) The following are not eligible as cost share:
    (1) Normal operating expenses and other costs not directly related 
to the project;
    (2) Any portion of salary or compensation of an individual who is 
the target of an approved project activity;
    (3) The cost of insuring articles owned by private individuals;
    (4) The cost of product development, product modification, or 
product research;
    (5) Slotting fees or similar sales expenditures;
    (6) Funds, services, capital goods, or personnel provided by any 
U.S. Government agency;
    (7) The value of any services generated by a Recipient or a third 
party that involve no expenditure by the Recipient or third party, 
e.g., free publicity;

[[Page 69990]]

    (8) The cost of developing any application/proposal for EMP 
funding;
    (9) Membership fees in clubs and social organizations; and
    (10) Any expenditure for an activity prior to CCC's approval of 
that activity.
    (b) CCC shall determine, at CCC's discretion, whether any cost not 
expressly listed in this section may be included as an eligible cost 
share.


Sec.  1486.403  Reimbursement rules.

    (a) A Recipient may seek reimbursement for an eligible expenditure 
if:
    (1) The expenditure was necessary and reasonable for the 
performance of an approved activity; and
    (2) The Recipient has not been and will not be reimbursed for such 
expenditure by any other source.
    (b) Subject to paragraph (a) of this section, as well as applicable 
cost principles in 2 CFR part 200, to the extent these principles do 
not directly conflict with the provisions of this part, CCC will 
reimburse, in whole or in part, the cost of:
    (1) Salaries and benefits of the Recipient's existing personnel or 
any other participating entity that are directly assigned to EMP-funded 
projects. Salaries of administrative and clerical staff should normally 
be treated as indirect costs. Federal, state, and local government 
Recipients may not be reimbursed for salaries and benefits. 
Reimbursement of salaries and benefits for other Recipients is limited 
to:
    (i) The actual daily rate paid by the Recipient for the employee's 
salary or the daily rate of a GS-15, Step 10 U.S. Government employee 
in effect during the calendar year in which the project or activity is 
approved for funding, whichever is less;
    (ii) The actual assigned time of the employee to the project; and
    (iii) Benefits at a maximum rate of 30 percent of the existing 
salary of the employee, prorated to the time assigned to the project, 
provided that such benefits are required and granted pursuant to the 
Recipient's established written policies.
    (2) Consulting fees for professional services, limited to the daily 
rate of a GS-15, Step 10 U.S. Government employee in effect during the 
calendar year in which the project or activity is approved for funding. 
Reimbursement is authorized only for actual days worked and is not 
authorized for travel and rest days. Benefits are not reimbursable.
    (3) STRE for social events or receptions that are primarily 
attended by foreign officials and that are held at foreign venues and 
are part of an approved activity. Such expenses must conform to the 
American Embassy representational funding guidelines as the standard 
for judging the appropriateness of the STRE costs. The amount of 
unauthorized STRE expenses that exceed the guidelines will not be 
reimbursed. Recipients must pay the difference between the total cost 
of STRE events and the appropriate amount as determined by the 
guidelines. STRE incurred in the United States is not authorized for 
reimbursement but may be counted as a cost share to the project.
    (4) Travel expenses, subject to the following:
    (i) All expenses while in travel status must conform to the U.S. 
Federal Travel Regulations (41 CFR parts 300 through 304);
    (ii) Air travel must comply with the Fly America Act (49 U.S.C. 
App. 1517) and is limited to the full-fare economy class rate;
    (iii) Per diem is limited to the allowable rate for each domestic 
or foreign locale (41 CFR part 301-11). Expenses in excess of the 
authorized per diem rates may be allowed in special or unusual 
circumstances (41 CFR part 301-11), but must be approved in advance; 
and
    (iv) The Recipient shall notify the Attach[eacute]/Counselor in the 
destination countries in writing in advance of any proposed travel by 
the Recipient or its consultants or other Recipients. The timing of 
such notice should be far enough in advance to enable the 
Attach[eacute]/Counselor to schedule appointments, make preparations, 
or otherwise provide any assistance being requested. Failure to provide 
advance notification of travel generally will result in disallowance of 
the expenses related to the travel, unless CCC determines it was 
impractical to provide such notification.
    (5) Direct administrative costs.
    (6) Indirect costs not identified as direct costs, but which are 
necessary for the implementation of a project. Indirect costs must be 
specified to be eligible for reimbursement. Indirect costs may be 
reimbursed up to a maximum of 10 percent of the EMP-funded portion of 
the project budget, excluding indirect costs, except that Recipients in 
FAS' Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development 
Cooperator Program, SRTGs, for-profit entities, and government 
Recipients may not be reimbursed for indirect costs.
    (7) Rental costs for equipment necessary to carry out approved 
projects. Equipment rentals must be returned by the Recipient to the 
supplier in accordance with the lease agreements, but in no case later 
than 90 calendar days from the completion date of the project.
    (8) Procuring samples of specific agricultural commodities that are 
appropriate and necessary to the success of a technical assistance 
activity.


Sec.  1486.404   Ineligible expenditures.

    (a) CCC will not reimburse expenditures made prior to approval of a 
Recipient's proposal, unreasonable expenditures, or any cost of:
    (1) Branded product promotions, e.g., in-store promotions, 
restaurant advertising, labeling, etc.;
    (2) Administrative and operational expenses for trade shows;
    (3) Advertising;
    (4) Preparation and printing of magazines, brochures, flyers, 
posters, etc., except in connection with specific approved activities 
such as training;
    (5) Design, development, and maintenance of information technology 
projects;
    (6) Purchase of equipment, e.g., office equipment or other fixed 
assets;
    (7) Subsidizing or otherwise providing funds for graduate programs 
at colleges and/or universities (salaries or fees for individual 
students who are directly assigned to specific project activities 
appropriate to their backgrounds may be covered on a pro-rated basis);
    (8) Subsidizing normal, day-to-day operating costs of an entity, 
except as allowed under Sec.  1486.403(b)(6);
    (9) Honoraria for speakers;
    (10) Costs of product research or new product development;
    (11) Costs of developing technical assistance proposals submitted 
to the program;
    (12) Refundable deposits or advances;
    (13) STRE expenses within the United States;
    (14) All costs related to the shipping, over land and sea, of 
commodity samples;
    (15) Expenses, fines, settlements, judgments, or payments relating 
to legal suits, challenges, or disputes, including legal fees and costs 
associated with trade disputes, except as otherwise allowed in 2 CFR 
part 200;
    (16) Real estate costs other than allowable rental costs for office 
space whose use is assigned specifically to a project funded by the 
EMP; and
    (17) Any expenditure that has been or will be reimbursed by any 
other source.
    (b) CCC may determine, at CCC's discretion, whether any cost not 
expressly listed in this section will be reimbursed.


Sec.  1486.405  Reimbursement procedures.

    (a) Following the implementation of a project for which CCC has 
agreed to

[[Page 69991]]

provide funding, a Recipient may submit claims for reimbursement of 
eligible expenses incurred in implementing an EMP project, to the 
extent that CCC has agreed to pay such expenses. Any changes to 
approved activities must be approved in writing by CCC before any 
reimbursable expenses associated with the change can be incurred. A 
Recipient will be reimbursed after CCC reviews the claim and determines 
that it is complete.
    (b) CCC will make all payments to the Recipients in U.S. dollars. 
FAS will initiate payment within 30 days after receipt of the billing, 
unless the billing is improper.
    (c) Recipients will be authorized to submit requests for 
reimbursements or advances at least monthly when electronic fund 
transfers (EFTs) are not used, and as frequently as desired when 
electronic transfers are used, in accordance with the provisions of the 
Electronic Fund Transfer Act (15 U.S.C. 1693-1693r).
    (d) Recipients may submit claims for reimbursement of the expenses 
incurred in implementing EMP projects, to the extent CCC has agreed to 
pay for such costs, limited initially to 85 percent of the total amount 
specified in the agreement. The Recipient may be reimbursed for the 
remaining 15 percent of the funds only after the final performance 
report containing the information required by the agreement is 
submitted to and approved by FAS.
    (e) Final claims for reimbursement must be received no later than 
90 calendar days after the completion date of the project or following 
the expiration or termination date of the agreement, whichever is 
sooner, and are subject to FAS approval of the Recipient's final 
performance report. Recipients are required to use a prescribed system 
to submit their claims. This system will be clearly stated in the NOFO. 
Currently the CCC's internet-based UES system is being used to request 
reimbursement for eligible EMP program expenses.
    (f) Recipients shall maintain complete records of all program 
expenditures, identified by EMP agreement number, program year, country 
or region, activity number, and cost category. Such records shall be 
accompanied by documentation that supports the expenditure and shall be 
made available to CCC upon request. CCC may deny a claim for 
reimbursement if the claim is not supported by acceptable 
documentation.
    (g) In the event that a reimbursement claim is overpaid or is 
disallowed after payment already has been made, the Recipient shall 
repay CCC within 30 calendar days of such overpayment or disallowance 
the amount overpaid or disallowed either by submitting a check payable 
to CCC and referencing the applicable project, or by offsetting its 
next reimbursement claim. The Recipient shall make such payment in U.S. 
dollars, unless otherwise approved in advance by CCC.
    (h) The Recipient shall report any actions that may have a bearing 
on the propriety of any claims for reimbursement in writing to the 
appropriate Attach[eacute]/Counselor and FAS Division Director.


Sec.  1486.406  Advances.

    (a) Policy. In general, CCC operates the EMP on a cost reimbursable 
basis.
    (b) Exception. Upon request, CCC may make advance payments to a 
Recipient against an approved project budget. Up to 40 percent of the 
approved project budget may be provided as an advance, either at one 
time or in incremental payments. Advances should be limited to the 
minimum amounts needed and requested as close as is administratively 
feasible to the actual time of disbursement by the Recipient. 
Reimbursement claims will be used to offset advances. Recipients shall 
deposit and maintain advances in insured, interest-bearing accounts, 
unless the exceptions in 2 CFR part 200 apply. Interest earned by the 
Recipient on funds advanced by CCC is not program income. Up to $500 of 
interest earned per year may be retained by the Recipient for 
administrative expenses. Any additional interest earned on Federal 
advance payments shall be remitted annually to the appropriate entity 
as required in 2 CFR part 200.
    (c) Refunds due CCC. A Recipient shall fully expend all advances on 
approved activities within 90 calendar days after the date of 
disbursement by CCC. By the end of 90 calendar days, the Recipient must 
submit reimbursement claims to offset the advance and submit a check 
made payable to CCC for any unexpended balance. The Recipient shall 
make such payment in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise approved in advance 
by CCC.

Subpart E--Reporting, Evaluation, and Compliance


Sec.  1486.500  Reports.

    (a) Recipients are required to submit regular financial and 
performance reports in accordance with their agreement. Reporting 
requirements and formats for both annual financial and performance 
reports and final financial and performance reports will be specified 
in the agreement between CCC and the Recipient.
    (b)(1) In addition to the information required in 2 CFR 
200.328(b)(2), a Recipient's performance reports must include pertinent 
information regarding the Recipient's progress, measured against 
established indicators, baselines, and targets, towards achieving the 
expected results specified in the agreement. This reporting must 
include, for each performance indicator, a comparison of actual 
accomplishments with the baseline and the targets established for the 
period. When actual accomplishments deviate significantly from targeted 
goals, the Recipient must provide an explanation in the report.
    (2) A Recipient must ensure the accuracy and reliability of the 
performance data submitted to FAS in performance reports. At any time 
during the period of performance of the agreement, FAS may review the 
Recipient's performance data to determine whether it is accurate and 
reliable. The Recipient must comply with all requests made by FAS or an 
entity designated by FAS in relation to such reviews.
    (c) All final performance reports will be made available to the 
public.
    (d) If requested by FAS, a Recipient must provide to FAS additional 
information or reports relating to the agreement.
    (e) If a Recipient requires an extension of a reporting deadline, 
it must ensure that FAS receives an extension request at least five 
business days prior to the reporting deadline. FAS may decline to 
consider a request for an extension that it receives after this time 
period. FAS will consider requests for reporting deadline extensions on 
a case by case basis and will make a decision based on the merits of 
each request. FAS will consider factors such as unforeseen or 
extenuating circumstances and past performance history when evaluating 
requests for extensions.


Sec.  1486.501  Evaluation.

    Project evaluations may be carried out by CCC at its option with or 
without Recipients. CCC may also seek outside expertise to conduct or 
participate in evaluations.


Sec.  1486.502  Compliance reviews and notices.

    (a) Compliance review process. (1) USDA staff may conduct 
compliance reviews of Recipient's activities under the EMP to ensure 
compliance with this part, applicable Federal laws and regulations, and 
the terms of the agreements and approval letters. Recipients shall 
cooperate fully with relevant USDA staff conducting compliance reviews 
and shall comply

[[Page 69992]]

with all requests from USDA staff to facilitate the conduct of such 
reviews. Program funds spent inappropriately or on unapproved 
activities must be returned to CCC.
    (2) Any project or activity funded under the program is subject to 
review or audit at any time during the course of implementation or 
after the completion of the project.
    (3) Upon conclusion of the compliance review, USDA staff will 
provide a written compliance report to the Recipient. The compliance 
report will detail any instances where it appears that the Recipient is 
not complying with any of the terms or conditions of the agreement, 
approval letter, or the applicable laws and regulations. The report 
will also specify if it appears that CCC may be entitled to recover 
funds from the Recipient and will explain the basis for any recovery of 
funds from the Recipient. If, as a result of a compliance review, CCC 
determines that further review is needed in order to ensure compliance 
with the requirements of the EMP, CCC may require the Recipient to 
contract for an independent audit.
    (4) In addition, CCC may notify a Recipient in writing at any time 
if CCC determines that CCC may be entitled to recover funds from the 
Recipient. CCC will explain the basis for any recovery of funds from 
the Recipient in the written notice. The Recipient shall, within 30 
calendar days of the date of the notice, repay CCC the amount owed 
either by submitting a check payable to CCC or by offsetting its next 
reimbursement claim. The Recipient shall make such payment in U.S. 
dollars, unless otherwise approved in advance by CCC. If, however, a 
Recipient notifies CCC within 30 calendar days of the date of the 
written notice that the Recipient intends to file an appeal pursuant to 
the provisions of this part, the amount owed to CCC by the Recipient is 
not due until the appeal procedures are concluded and CCC has made a 
final determination as to the amount owed.
    (5) The fact that a compliance review has been conducted by USDA 
staff does not signify that a Recipient is in full compliance with its 
agreement, approval letter, and/or applicable laws and regulations.
    (b) Recipient response to compliance report. (1) A Recipient shall, 
within 60 calendar days of the date of the issuance of a compliance 
report, submit a written response to CCC. The response may include 
additional documentation for consideration or a request for 
reconsideration of any finding along with supporting justification. If 
the Recipient does not wish to contest the compliance report, the 
response shall include any money owed to CCC, which may be returned by 
submitting a check payable to CCC or by offsetting a reimbursement 
claim. The Recipient shall make any payments in U.S. dollars, unless 
otherwise approved in advance by CCC. CCC, at its discretion, may 
extend the period for response.
    (2) After reviewing the response, CCC shall determine whether the 
Recipient owes any funds to CCC and will inform the Recipient in 
writing of the basis for the determination. CCC may initiate action to 
collect such amount by providing the Recipient a written demand for 
payment of the debt pursuant to the debt settlement policies and 
procedures in 7 CFR part 1403.
    (c) Recipient appeals of CCC determinations. (1) Within 30 calendar 
days of the date of the issuance of a determination, the Recipient may 
appeal the determination by making a request in writing that includes 
the basis for such reconsideration. The Recipient may also request a 
hearing.
    (2) If the Recipient requests a hearing, CCC will set a date and 
time for the hearing. The hearing will be an informal proceeding. A 
transcript will not ordinarily be prepared unless the Recipient bears 
the cost of a transcript; however, CCC may, at its discretion, have a 
transcript prepared at CCC's expense.
    (3) CCC will base its final determination upon information 
contained in the administrative record. The Recipient must exhaust all 
administrative remedies contained in this section before pursuing 
judicial review of a determination by CCC.


Sec.  1486.503   Records retention.

    Each Recipient shall retain all records relating to the project for 
three calendar years from the date of submission of the final 
expenditure report. All records related to the project, including 
records pertaining to contractors, shall be made available upon request 
to authorized officials of the U.S. Government.


Sec.  1486.504  Program income.

    Program income means gross income earned by the Recipient that is 
directly generated by a supported activity or earned as a result of the 
Federal award during the period of performance. Any such income 
generated from an activity, the expenditures for which have been wholly 
or partially reimbursed with EMP funds, shall be used by the Recipient 
in furtherance of its approved activities in the program period during 
which the EMP funds are available for obligation by the Recipient, or 
must be returned to CCC. The use of such income shall be governed by 
this part. Reasonable activity fees or registration fees, if identified 
as such in a project budget, may be charged for projects approved for 
program funding. The intent to charge a fee must be part of the 
original proposal, along with an explanation of how such fees are to be 
used. Any activity fees charged must be used to offset activity 
expenses or returned to CCC. Such fees may not be used as profit or 
counted as cost share.


Sec.  1486.505  Audit requirements.

    (a) Subpart F of 2 CFR part 200 applies to all Recipients and 
subrecipients under this part other than those that are for-profit 
entities, foreign public entities, or foreign organizations.
    (b) A Recipient or subrecipient that is a for-profit entity or a 
subrecipient that is a foreign organization and that expends, during 
its fiscal year, a total of at least the audit requirement threshold in 
2 CFR 200.501 in Federal awards, is required to obtain an audit. Such a 
Recipient or subrecipient has the following two options to satisfy the 
requirement in this paragraph (b):
    (1)(i) A financial audit of the agreement or subaward, in 
accordance with the Government Auditing Standards issued by the United 
States Government Accountability Office (GAO), if the Recipient or 
subrecipient expends Federal awards under only one FAS program during 
such fiscal year; or
    (ii) A financial audit of all Federal awards from FAS, in 
accordance with GAO's Government Auditing Standards, if the Recipient 
or subrecipient expends Federal awards under multiple FAS programs 
during such fiscal year; or
    (2) An audit that meets the requirements contained in subpart F of 
2 CFR part 200.
    (c) A Recipient or subrecipient that is a for-profit entity or a 
subrecipient that is a foreign organization and that expends, during 
its fiscal year, a total that is less than the audit requirement 
threshold in 2 CFR 200.501 in Federal awards, is exempt from 
requirements under this section for an audit for that year, except as 
provided in paragraphs (d) and (f) of this section, but it must make 
records available for review by appropriate officials of Federal 
agencies.
    (d) FAS may require an annual financial audit of an agreement or 
subaward when the audit requirement threshold in 2 CFR 200.501 is not 
met. In that case, FAS must provide funds under the agreement for this 
purpose, and the Recipient or subrecipient, as applicable, must arrange 
for such audit and submit it to FAS.

[[Page 69993]]

    (e) When a Recipient or subrecipient that is a for-profit entity or 
a subrecipient that is a foreign organization is required to obtain a 
financial audit under this section, it must provide a copy of the audit 
to FAS within 60 days after the end of its fiscal year.
    (f) FAS, the USDA Office of Inspector General, or GAO may conduct 
or arrange for additional audits of any Recipients or subrecipients, 
including for-profit entities and foreign organizations. Recipients and 
subrecipients must promptly comply with all requests related to such 
audits. If FAS conducts or arranges for an additional audit, such as an 
audit with respect to a particular agreement, FAS will fund the full 
cost of such an audit, in accordance with 2 CFR 200.503(d).


Sec.  1486.506  Disclosure of program information.

    (a) Documents submitted to CCC by Recipients are subject to the 
provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552, and 
7 CFR part 1, subpart A, including, specifically, 7 CFR 1.11.
    (b) Any research conducted by a Recipient pursuant to an agreement 
and/or approval letter shall be subject to the provisions relating to 
intangible property in 2 CFR part 200.


Sec.  1486.507  Ethical conduct.

    (a) The Recipient shall maintain written standards of conduct 
governing the performance of its employees engaged in the award and 
administration of contracts.
    (b) A Recipient shall conduct its business in accordance with the 
laws and regulations of the country(s) in which each activity is 
carried out and in accordance with applicable U.S. Federal, state, and 
local laws and regulations. A Recipient shall conduct its business in 
the United States in accordance with applicable Federal, state, and 
local laws and regulations.
    (c) Neither a Recipient nor its affiliates shall make export sales 
of U.S. agricultural commodities covered under the terms of an 
agreement. Neither a Recipient nor its affiliates shall charge a fee 
for facilitating an export sale. A Recipient may collect check-off 
funds and membership fees that are required for membership in the 
Recipient's organization.
    (d) The Recipient shall not use program activities or project funds 
to promote private self-interests or conduct private business.
    (e) A Recipient shall not limit participation in its EMP activities 
to members of its organization. Recipients shall ensure that their EMP-
funded programs and activities are open to all otherwise qualified 
individuals and entities on an equal basis and without regard to any 
non-merit factors.
    (f) A Recipient shall select U.S. agricultural industry 
representatives to participate in activities based on criteria that 
ensure participation on an equitable basis by a broad cross section of 
the U.S. industry. If requested by CCC, a Recipient shall submit such 
selection criteria to CCC for approval.
    (g) The Recipient must report any actions or circumstances that may 
have a bearing on the propriety of program activities to the 
appropriate Attach[eacute]/Counselor, and the Recipient's U.S. office 
shall report such actions or circumstances in writing to CCC.
    (h) The officers, employees, board members, and agents of the 
Recipient shall neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or 
anything of monetary value from contractors, sub-contractors, or 
parties to sub-agreements. However, Recipients may set standards for 
situations in which the financial interest is not substantial, or the 
gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value. The standards of conduct 
shall provide for disciplinary actions to be applied for violations of 
such standards by officers, employees, board members, or agents of the 
Recipient.


Sec.  1486.508  Suspension and termination.

    (a) An agreement or subaward may be suspended or terminated in 
accordance with 2 CFR 200.338 or 200.339. FAS may suspend or terminate 
an agreement if it determines that:
    (1) One of the bases in 2 CFR 200.338 or 200.339 for termination or 
suspension by FAS has been satisfied; or
    (2) The continuation of the assistance provided under the agreement 
is no longer necessary or desirable.
    (b) If an agreement is terminated, the Recipient:
    (1) Is responsible for using or returning any CCC-provided funds, 
interest, or program income that have not been disbursed, as agreed to 
by FAS; and
    (2) Must comply with any closeout and post-closeout procedures 
specified in the agreement and 2 CFR 200.343 and 200.344.


Sec.  1486.509  Noncompliance with an agreement.

    (a) If a Recipient fails to comply with any term in its agreement, 
approval letter, or this part, CCC may take one or more of the 
enforcement actions in 2 CFR part 200 and, if appropriate, initiate a 
claim against the Recipient, following the procedures set forth in this 
part. CCC may also initiate a claim against a Recipient if program 
income or CCC-provided funds are lost due to an action or omission of 
the Recipient. If any Recipient has engaged in fraud with respect to 
the EMP program, or has otherwise violated program requirements under 
this part, CCC may:
    (1) Hold such Recipient liable for any and all losses to CCC 
resulting from such fraud or violation;
    (2) Require a refund of any assistance provided to such Recipient 
plus interest as determined by FAS; and
    (3) Collect liquidated damages from such Recipient in an amount 
determined appropriate by FAS.
    (b) The provisions of this section shall be without prejudice to 
any other remedy that is available under any other provision of law.


Sec.  1486.510  Paperwork reduction requirements.

    The paperwork and recordkeeping requirements imposed by this part 
have been approved by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980. 
OMB has assigned control number 0551-0048 for this information 
collection.

    Dated: November 27, 2019.
Margo Erny,
Acting Executive Vice President, Commodity Credit Corporation.

    In concurrence with:

    Dated: November 26, 2019.
Ken Isley,
Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-27246 Filed 12-19-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-10-P