[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 244 (Thursday, December 19, 2013)]
[Notices]
[Pages 76818-76821]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-30237]
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
International Trade Administration
Secretarial Infrastructure Business Development Mission to the
United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar
March 8-14, 2014.
AGENCY: International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce.
ACTION: Notice.
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Mission Description
The United States Secretary of Commerce will lead an Infrastructure
Business Development Mission to the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom
of Saudi Arabia and Qatar from March 8-14, 2014. This business
development mission will promote U.S. exports to the Gulf region by
helping U.S. companies launch or increase their business in the
infrastructure sector. The mission will include government and
business-to-business meetings, market briefings and networking events.
In all three countries, the governments and private sector are
investing significant money in infrastructure projects. As a result,
the mission will focus on export-ready U.S. firms with product and
services in a broad range of leading U.S. infrastructure sectors with
an emphasis on project management and engineering (including
construction, architecture and design), renewable energy (solar, wind,
waste-to-energy), smart grid and energy efficiency, and environmental
technologies (including water/wastewater; air pollution control; and
waste management).
The mission will stop in the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In each country, participants will meet with
pre-screened potential agents, distributors, and representatives, as
well as other business partners and government officials. They will
also attend market briefings by U.S. Embassy officials, as well as
networking events offering further opportunities to speak with local
business and industry decision-makers.
The delegation will be composed of representatives from 20-25 U.S.
firms in the mission's target sectors. Representatives of the Export-
Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im) and the Overseas Private
Investment Corporation (OPIC) will be invited to participate to provide
information and counseling regarding their suite of programs, services,
and interests in the Middle East.
Commercial Setting
The United Arab Emirates
The US-UAE trade relationship is undergoing a period of rapid
expansion as the UAE seeks to undertake major investment in its
infrastructure and transport systems. U.S. exports to the UAE totaled
almost $23 billion in 2012. U.S. exports to the UAE increased by 36% in
2011, 42% in 2012 and are poised to grow an additional 15% in 2013. Key
market opportunities for U.S. firms will continue to be present in
project management and design work on urban transport, rail, oil & gas
and power generation (including alternative energy). Demand for imports
is being fueled by economic growth rates of 3-4%, and bolstered by
strong oil revenues as the UAE implements a one-third increase in its
petroleum production.
In addition to accounting for virtually all UAE oil production and
defense sector acquisitions, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is also moving
forward to develop a $10 billion urban transit system, a national
railroad network and a nuclear energy industry. Dubai continues to
expand its role as the major regional trade hub and has begun
development of one the world's largest new airport projects. On
November 27, 2013, the Emirate won the award to host the 2020 World
Expo which will result in the undertaking of major infrastructure and
hospitality development.
Specific projects in these sectors include an urban transit project
in Abu Dhabi (light rail and below ground subway); development of the
Etihad Rail network to link the UAE's major ports and cities;
development of Dubai's new Al Maktoum airport and adjacent logistics,
commercial, residential and recreational sites; and the anticipated
design and construction of over 100 new hotels and multiple venues for
the 2020 World Expo with an estimated project value of $40 billion.
Additionally, there are many major clean energy opportunities for
U.S. firms. Dubai plans to develop a 1,000
[[Page 76819]]
mw solar energy capacity and Abu Dhabi continues plans to create a
nuclear power industry.
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is the 9th largest trading partner of the United
States with a bilateral trade of $74 billion in 2012 and is also the
20th largest destination for U.S. exports. In 2012, U.S. exports to
Saudi Arabia exceeded $18 billion mark, an increase of 31% from 2011.
The Saudi economy--the largest in the Middle East and North Africa
region--has been growing at a robust pace. The private sector has been
the key driver behind the stronger non-oil sector growth, with an
annual growth rate close to 7 percent since 2000. The private sector is
expected to continue to be a key driver of non-oil growth. The country
has benefited enormously from oil and gas reserves that have generated
vast financial liquidity in the six years between 2006 and 2012. As a
result, there are currently about $960 billion worth of projects
planned or under way in Saudi Arabia. Of these, more than $700 billion
are megaprojects, or large master planned developments of more than $1
billion, making Saudi Arabia the biggest opportunity in the region for
businesses involved in the infrastructure and construction sectors. The
revenues from hydrocarbon resources are expected to be sufficient to
support planned development spending and support private sector growth.
The FY-2013 budget, the largest in Saudi history, projected spending of
$221 billion.
Significant opportunities exist for U.S. companies interested in
Saudi Arabia's construction project management, architectural,
engineering and design, and renewable energy sectors. The King Abdullah
City for Atomic and Renewable Energy has a stated goal to spend more
than $150 billion to develop renewable energy capabilities,
specifically solar, to reduce the country's reliance on burning oil for
domestic power generation. The $22.5 billion Riyadh Metro, along with
rail schemes in Mecca, Jeddah, Medina and Dammam, promises to transform
transport infrastructure. The King Abdullah and Jizan Economic Cities
are in the process of creating new industrial clusters and new
communities. The government is committed to continue to spend heavily
in the education, health, municipality, transportation and water
sectors. Some of the anticipated capital expenditures for 2014 include
the construction of new schools, hospitals, and roads across the
country. Urbanization and population growth in Saudi Arabia have
boosted demand for housing, especially affordable housing. The Saudi
Government remains committed to building 500,000 houses over the next
five years. Likewise, demand for power generation will continue to
climb over the next five years on the back of a rapidly growing
population, and resulting high investments in social and physical
infrastructure.
Qatar
The U.S.-Qatar trade relationship is going through a massive
transformation. The United States posted a trade surplus with Qatar of
$2.6 billion from January 2013-August 2013. Total U.S. exports to Qatar
through August 2013, were $3.6 billion establishing a new record and
growing 106% compared year-on-year with January through August 2012.
(The previous yearly record for U.S. exports to Qatar was $3.57 billion
in 2012). Given this trend, U.S. exports to Qatar are poised to break
the $5 billion dollar level in 2013. Despite Qatar's small population
(Qatar is a country of only two million people and only 250,000 Qatari
citizens) it ranks as the fifth largest U.S. export market in the MENA
region, only behind the much larger markets of the UAE, the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia, Israel and Egypt. Over the past 10 years U.S. exports to
Qatar have grown by over 700%.
With Qatar's 2030 Vision, which establishes a framework for Qatar
to transform itself from a carbon-based economy, combined with Qatar
hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar plans to spend over $250 billion
on physical infrastructure over the next five years. Opportunities
include: The new Hamad International Airport--$25 billion for
completion of the first phase and the $10 billion dollar Phase II; the
New Doha Port which is the world's largest green-field port
construction project valued at $8 billion (commercial and naval port);
QRail is embarking on a $40 billion dollar rail construction project
creating three new subway lines, three above ground Light Rail Systems
and a high-speed rail network, with heavy freight to follow after 2022;
the Public Works Authority is spending $40 billion on new road projects
(converting from European systems to U.S.-based designs) as well as
public buildings such as schools and hospitals; and the Qatar 2022
Supreme Committee will supervise the construction of 9-12 stadiums for
the 2022 World Cup valued at $5 billion. These projects provide on-
going opportunities for U.S. engineering and design firms.
Another key program is the $4 billion dollar Inner Doha Re-sewerage
Implementation Strategy (IDRIS). This scheme will include a major deep
tunnel sewer network and advanced sewage treatment works. Renewable
energy is a priority and Qatar is heavily investing in solar energy.
Products and Services Outside of the Scope of the Mission
The foregoing analysis of infrastructure export opportunities is
not intended to be exhaustive, but illustrative of the many
opportunities available to U.S. businesses in the United Arab Emirates,
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Applications from companies
selling products or services within the scope of this mission will be
considered and evaluated by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Companies
whose products or services do not fit the scope of the mission may
contact their local U.S. Export Assistance Center (USEAC) to learn
about other business development missions and export promotion services
that may provide more targeted export opportunities. Companies may call
1-800-872-8723, or visit the Web site: http://www.export.gov to obtain
such information.
Mission Goals
This mission will demonstrate the United States' commitment to a
sustained economic partnership in the Gulf region. The mission's
purpose is to support the business development goals of U.S. firms as
they construct a firm foundation for future business in the United Arab
Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and specifically aims
to:
Assist in identifying potential partners and strategies
for U.S. companies to gain access to each market for infrastructure
products and services.
Confirm U.S. Government support for activities of U.S.
business in each market and to provide access to senior decision makers
in the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar
government.
Listen to the needs, suggestions and experience of
individual participants so as to shape appropriate U.S. Government
positions regarding U.S. business interests in the region.
Organize private and focused events with local business
and association leaders capable of becoming partners and clients for
U.S. firms as they develop their business in the region.
Assist in the development of competitive strategies and
increasing market access through high level information gathering from
private and public-sector leaders.
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Mission Scenario
The mission will stop in the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In each country, participants will meet with
pre-screened potential agents, distributors, and representatives, as
well as other business partners and government officials. They will
also attend market briefings by U.S. Embassy officials, as well as
networking events offering further opportunities to speak with local
business and industry decision-makers.
Proposed Time Table
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Saturday, March 8............... Abu Dhabi, United Arab Business Development Mission Orientation.
Emirates. U.S. Government Trade Finance Briefing.
Commercial Opportunity Overview.
Country Team Briefing.
Welcome Dinner.
Sunday, March 9................. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Industry Briefings/Roundtable Discussions.
Emirates. One-on-One Business Appointments.
Networking Luncheon.
Networking Reception.
Monday, March 10................ Dubai, United Arab Travel to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Emirates. Industry Briefings/Roundtable Discussions.
One-on-One Business Appointments.
Travel to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Tuesday, March 11............... Riyadh, Saudi Arabia... Commercial Opportunity Overview.
Country Team Briefing.
Government Meetings.
One-on-One Business Appointments.
Networking Luncheon.
Networking Reception.
Wednesday, March 12............. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia... One-on-One Business Appointments.
Doha, Qatar............ Travel to Doha, Qatar.
Commercial Opportunity Overview.
Country Team Briefing.
One-on-One Business Appointments.
Networking Reception.
Thursday, March 13.............. Doha, Qatar............ Government Meetings.
One-on-One Business Appointments.
Networking Luncheon.
Wrap-up Discussion.
Closing Dinner.
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Participation Requirements
All parties interested in participating in the Secretarial
Infrastructure Business Development Mission to the United Arab
Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar must complete and
submit an application package for consideration by the Department of
Commerce. All applicants will be evaluated on their ability to meet
certain conditions and best satisfy the selection criteria as outlined
below. Approximately 20-25 companies will be selected to participate in
the mission from the applicant pool. U.S. companies doing business with
the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as
well as U.S. companies seeking to enter these markets for the first
time may 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 fee schedule for the mission is below:
$11,500 for large firms
$9,000 for a small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) \1\
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\1\ An SME is defined as a firm with 500 or fewer employees or
that otherwise qualifies as a small business under SBA regulations
(see http://www.sba.gov/services/contracting opportunities/
sizestandardstopics/index.html). 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 http://www.export.gov/newsletter/march2008/initiatives.html for additional information).
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$3000 each additional firm representative (large firm or SME)
Expenses for air travel, lodging, most meals, and incidentals will
be the responsibility of each mission participant.
Conditions of Participation
An applicant must submit a completed and signed mission application
and supplemental application materials, including adequate information
on the company's products and/or services, primary market objectives,
and goals for participation. If the Department of Commerce receives an
incomplete application, the Department may reject the application,
request additional information, or take the lack of information into
account when evaluating the applications. Each applicant must also:
Certify that the products and services it seeks to export
through the mission are either produced in the United States, or, if
not, marketed under the name of a U.S. firm and have at least 51% U.S.
content. In cases where the U.S. content does not exceed 50%,
especially where the applicant intends to pursue investment and major
project opportunities, the following factors, may be considered in
determining whether the applicant's participation in the business
development mission is in the U.S. national interest:
[cir] U.S. materials and equipment content;
[cir] U.S. labor content;
[cir] Repatriation of profits to the U.S. economy; and
[cir] Potential for follow-on business that would benefit the U.S.
economy.
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Certify that the export of the products and services that
it wishes to export through the mission would be in compliance with
U.S. export controls and regulations;
Certify that it has identified to the Department of
Commerce for its evaluation any business pending before the Department
of Commerce that may present the appearance of a conflict of interest;
Certify that it has identified any pending litigation
(including any administrative proceedings) to which it is a party that
involves the Department of Commerce; and
Sign and submit an agreement that it and its affiliates
(1) have not and will not engage in the bribery of foreign officials in
connection with a company's/participant's involvement in this mission,
and (2) maintain and enforce a policy that prohibits the bribery of
foreign officials.
Selection Criteria for Participation
Selection will be based on the following criteria, listed in
decreasing order of importance:
Suitability of a company's products or services to the
target markets and the likelihood of a participating company's
increased exports or business interests in the target markets as a
result of this mission;
Consistency of company's products or services with the
scope and desired outcome of the mission's goals;
Demonstrated export experience in the target markets and/
or other foreign markets;
Current or pending major project participation; and
Rank/seniority of the designated company representative.
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 containing
references to partisan political activities (including political
contributions) will be removed from an applicant's submission and not
considered during the selection process.
Timeframe for Recruitment and Applications
Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner,
including publication in the Federal Register (http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr), posting on ITA's business development mission
calendar (http://export.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.
Recruitment will begin immediately and conclude no later than
January 17, 2014. Applications can be completed on-line at the GCC
Infrastructure Business Development Mission Web site at http://www.export.gov/GCCMission2014 or can be obtained by contacting the U.S.
Department of Commerce Office of Business Liaison (202-482-1360 or
[email protected]).
The application deadline is Friday, January 17, 2014. Completed
applications should be submitted to the Office of Business Liaison.
Applications received after Friday, January 17, 2014, will be
considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit.
How to Apply
Applications can be downloaded from the business development
mission Web site (http://export.gov/GCCMission2014) or can be obtained
by contacting the Office of Business Liaison (see below). Completed
applications should be submitted to the Office of Business Liaison via
email: [email protected] or fax: 202-482-4054.
Contacts
General Information and Applications: The Office of Business
Liaison, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW., Room 5062, Washington, DC 20230,
Tel: 202-482-1360, Fax: 202-482-4054, Email: [email protected].
Elnora Moye,
Trade Program Assistant.
[FR Doc. 2013-30237 Filed 12-18-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-DR-P