[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 109 (Wednesday, June 6, 2012)]
[Notices]
[Pages 33439-33442]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-13629]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

International Trade Administration


Trade Mission to Egypt and Kuwait

AGENCY: International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce.

ACTION: Notice.

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Mission Description

    The U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service is organizing a 
Trade Mission to explore opportunities in the energy, renewable energy, 
infrastructure and safety and security technology sectors in Cairo, 
Egypt and Kuwait City, Kuwait, March 10-14, 2013. Led by a senior 
executive of the Department of Commerce or other U.S. Government 
agency, the trade mission will include one-on-one business appointments 
with pre-screened potential buyers, agents, distributors and joint 
venture partners; meetings with government officials, chambers of 
commerce, and business groups; and networking receptions for companies 
interested in expansion into the North African and Middle Eastern 
markets. Meetings will be offered with government authorities that can 
address questions about policies, tariff rates, incentives, grid 
interconnection, regulation, etc.
    The mission will help participating firms gain market insights, 
make industry contacts, solidify business strategies, and advance 
specific projects, with the goal of increasing U.S. exports to Egypt 
and Kuwait. The mission will include one-on-one business appointments 
with pre-screened potential buyers, agents, distributors and joint 
venture partners; meeting with national and regional government 
officials; and networking events. Participating in an official U.S. 
industry delegation, rather than traveling to Egypt and Kuwait on their 
own, will enhance the companies' ability to secure meetings in these 
countries.

Commercial Setting

Egypt

    Egypt is strategically located at the gateway of trade for Africa 
and the Middle East. It is a prime location for the transit of goods, 
as well as a key destination for American companies seeking to do 
business in the region.
    Egypt has experienced profound political changes over the past 
year. On February 11, 2011, President Hosni

[[Page 33440]]

Mubarak's 30-year rule came to an end. In January 2012, Egypt seated 
its first freely and fairly elected parliament, and has held a 
Presidential election. Successful conclusion of Egypt's 2012 
Presidential election has removed uncertainties about Egypt's political 
future and may help pave the road forward to achieve macroeconomic 
stability. In the meantime, the United States remains committed to a 
strong partnership with Egypt.
    As the largest Arab country with a population of 90 million, Egypt 
is the fourth largest export market for U.S. products and services in 
the Middle East. The United States is Egypt's largest bilateral trading 
partner, and the second largest investor. In 2011, bilateral trade 
reached $8.2 billion. The gross domestic product (GDP) grew over five 
percent from 2009 to 2010. According to Business Monitor 
International's forecasts, Egypt's real GDP is expanding 2.1% in 
FY2011/12 and projected to grow 4.9% in FY2012/13 (Egypt's fiscal year 
is July through June).
    Egyptian law requires that foreign companies retain Egyptian 
commercial agents, for public tenders, but they may work directly with 
private companies. Most foreign companies have found it beneficial, 
however, to engage a local agent for private sector transactions as 
well because of their familiarity of the language, law and general 
business practices. Based on geographical location or product basis, a 
firm can appoint multiple agents in Egypt to further enhance its 
success.

Kuwait

    Kuwait is situated in the northwestern corner of the Arabian 
Peninsula, a strategic position in this vital region. The economy is 
dominated by the oil industry and government sector, and the country 
has benefited from the sharp rise of oil prices in recent years. In 
2010, Kuwait's parliament passed a five-year $104 billion plan to 
update Kuwait's infrastructure and diversify the economy away from oil. 
The plan comprises 1,100 projects, including the creation of ``Silk 
City,'' a financial and commercial hub and free trade zone with 700,000 
residents; construction of major roadways; a new container terminal and 
infrastructure to support northward bound transportation.
    Kuwait imports most of its capital equipment, processed foods, 
manufacturing equipment and consumer goods. Many Kuwaitis travel to or 
study in the United States, and as a result, American products are well 
known and highly regarded in Kuwait.
    Kuwait is a wealthy country with a savvy business community. Many 
Kuwaiti companies have activities outside of Kuwait. Some are building 
ports and airports in Egypt and Africa, own facilities in Europe and 
Asia, and represent U.S. franchises throughout the Middle East and as 
far away as Russia. Historically traders, Kuwait's business community 
is very entrepreneurial.

Best Sector Prospects

Energy/Renewable Energy

Egypt
    Egypt is one of the largest electrical energy producing countries 
in the Middle East. Over the next ten years, Egypt plans to expand its 
electricity capacity to 60,000 megawatts through a combination of 
traditional, renewable, and nuclear energy production to diversify 
energy resources and preserve the country's limited oil and gas 
reserves. The Government of Egypt's (GOE) goal is to generate 20% of 
power from renewables, including about 12% representing 7200 MW, 
subject to increase, from wind, and 3200 MW from solar by 2020. 
Renewable energy in Egypt represents a huge opportunity for U.S. firms 
particularly with their competitive technology, quality, and pricing. 
Egyptian policy makers know that renewable energy is a global energy 
trend and are seriously looking into attracting private sector 
investors. Therefore, the Supreme Council of Energy has approved a 
number of incentives such as exempting all renewable energy equipment 
and spare parts from customs' duties and sales taxes. Solar joins wind 
as another renewable resource being exploited. Egypt's first hybrid 
solar power plant, Kuraymat, is a project combining natural gas and 
solar absorption through 130,000 square meters of parabolic mirrors. 
The plant will have the capacity to produce 150 MW and is expected to 
provide electricity to 550,000 households. Opportunities exist for U.S. 
providers of gas turbines, steam turbines, wind turbines, blades, and 
other equipment, as well as development and project management. Best 
prospects in the energy sector include circuit breakers of more than 
66kv, power transformers of more than 25MVA-66kva, power transmission 
lines, turbine generator units with associated equipment, and vibration 
dampers.
    The US&FCS will organize meetings for the mission delegates with 
the Ministry of Electricity and Energy, and the New and Renewable 
Energy Authority government officials who can address questions about 
policies, tariff rates, incentives, grid interconnection, price 
subsidy, and regulations.
Kuwait
    In October 2011, Kuwait's Ministry of Electricity and Water 
announced its 2012/2013 budget valued at $5.8 billion. Kuwait produces 
12,000 MW with seven power plants, and plans to boost its power 
generation by nearly half to 17,700 MW in four years to meet the rising 
demand for energy. The country is looking to build its first 
independent water and power plant (IWPP) at Azour North. Phase one of 
this project will produce 1500 MW and 100 million g/d of water and will 
cost $3 billion, while the entire project ultimately will produce 4800 
MW and 280 million g/d at a cost of $8-10 billion. Additionally, Kuwait 
is planning to build two new power plants, and one of these plants, 
Khairan, is expected to generate at least 2500 MW and 125 million g/d 
of water. Kuwait has new water projects under development in various 
parts of the country. Its current power sector plans are not limited to 
building new power plants but also focus on boosting the efficiency of 
existing power plants and enhancing the current distribution network 
using new technologies.
    US&FCS Kuwait will include meetings with the government authorities 
that can address questions about electric power policies, tariff rates, 
incentives, grid interconnection, regulation, etc.

Infrastructure Projects--Design and Construction, Building Products

Egypt
    The Government of Egypt (GOE) directed $1.9 billion to Egypt's 
infrastructure in 2010. With over 50 percent of the population under 
the age of 25 and a strong tourism market, there has been increased 
pressure on Egypt's roads, bridges, railroads, power stations, water 
and sewage, hospitals, and schools. According to the GOE, growth in the 
construction sector reached 4.25% in 2010 and will rise to 5.63% in 
2014. It is expected to grow by a robust 4.91% year-on-year from 2010 
to 2014, reaching a total value of $15.8 billion. Such growth is 
expected to attract investments of around $7.3 billion by 2015. Demand 
in the sector is on the rise mainly because of rapid demographic growth 
and housing shortages, particularly in the low- and middle-income 
segments. Construction accounts for around 8% of total employment, with 
a workforce of 1.2 million people in the sector.
    As an active importing and exporting country with a trade volume 
reaching $19.5 billion in 2011, there is an ongoing need for state-of-
the-art logistics centers, intermodal connecting

[[Page 33441]]

systems, cold storage, and river transportation. Logistics centers are 
considered critical to the global supply chain and will affect 
logistics decisions ranging from shipping routes to warehouse 
locations.
    In 2012, the Egyptian government's General Authority for Investment 
announced the following major plans for infrastructure development:
     The 6th of October Wastewater Treatment Plant: Design, 
construction, operation, and maintenance of a new 150,000 
m3/day plant, valued at $15-29 million.
     Abu Rawash Wastewater Treatment Plant: Upgrading of the 
plant, valued at $990 million.
     East Port Said Port: Includes a duty free zone area, road 
and rail networks, a power station, communication center, value-added 
services, valued at $1.5 billion.
     Alexandria Medical City: A medical center project for 
which the Egyptian government seeks private investment for financing, 
designing, constructing, equipping, furnishing, maintenance, operating, 
and provision of non-clinical facility services for two University 
Hospitals and a blood bank, valued at $1.45 billion.
    Some projects will be awarded based on the Egyptian government's 
``Public Private Partnership'' (PPP) program, a multi-faceted 
initiative to attract private sector investment for infrastructure 
projects.
Kuwait
    Kuwait's construction sector grew 2.5% to $2.4 billion in 2011, and 
is expected to reach $3.2 billion by 2015. The Government of Kuwait 
(GOK) is planning the construction of numerous public hospitals and new 
towers for existing hospitals at a cost of over US$5.5 billion by 2016. 
The multi-billion dollar Boubyan Harbor Project aims to turn Buobyan 
Island into the country's shipping center with a multi-media transport 
network. Upon its completion in 20 years, the port will have a total 
handling capacity of 2.5 million containers per year.
    Kuwait's robust commercial and residential construction expansion 
offers opportunities for the full range of U.S. building products and 
construction equipment. Local construction companies apply U.S. 
building techniques and technologies and use American building 
materials and equipment for private development projects, ranging from 
resorts to hospitals. The U.S. continues to lead as a supplier of 
building materials and equipment.

Safety/Security

Egypt
    The safety and security industry is booming throughout Egypt as the 
country deals with increased security issues ranging from private 
citizen safety to transaction fraud. Safety and security imports to 
Egypt have increased 10-15% annually for the past few years and U.S. 
brands are well received. This is primarily a government market, 
dominated by the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Defense.
    As the country works to increase tourism over the next few years (a 
government priority post-revolution), airports and seaports will need 
upgraded security systems. Police and customs authorities will also 
have an increased need for such systems. Egypt has eight major ports 
and three cross-country borders that require significant security 
measures. In its fight against drug smuggling and counterfeit products, 
Egypt requires container scanning and shipment tracking devices. Egypt 
is also looking at container scanning upgrades and seafarer 
identification cards for more secure identification and synchronizing 
systems to coordinate security measures and responses. Accordingly, 
opportunities exist for U.S firms providing short-range radar systems, 
surveillance cameras, infrared and radiological detectors, vessel 
tracking MIS, biometric scanners, personnel databases, computer 
peripherals, and systems integration equipment. Companies that can 
provide proven, cutting-edge technologies will have an advantage in 
these export opportunities.
Kuwait
    Kuwait plans to invest considerable sums in safety and security 
equipment over the next nine years. Kuwait defense and security forces 
will be looking to purchase surveillance equipment, perimeter control 
systems, security check point equipment (fences, crash barriers, 
cameras, access points), explosives, and contraband detection systems 
including scanning systems and consulting services in security 
planning. There will also be oil and oil-related infrastructure 
security upgrades and airport security upgrades.
    Several projects currently under consideration include the second 
phase of 30,000 camera surveillance systems to be installed in and near 
most transportation infrastructure points, geospatial intelligence 
connectivity, maritime netting, and sensors to minimize security 
threats to vessels, facilities security of oil refineries, production 
facilities and loading platforms, and the hardware and software 
infrastructure needed to support a fully integrated C4ISR system.
    Potential opportunities for U.S. companies include: C4ISR system 
integration for multiple tie-ins to surveillance systems (cameras, 
gamma sensors, magnetometers, command and control communications), 
border fencing and intruder sensing, industrial access controls, 
maritime surveillance and protection, long-range detection, and 
airborne systems.

Mission Goals

    The goal of the trade mission is to provide U.S. participants with 
first-hand market information, access to government decision makers as 
appropriate and one-on-one meetings with business contacts, including 
potential agents, distributors and partners, so they can position 
themselves to enter or expand their presence in the Egyptian and 
Kuwaiti markets.

Mission Scenario

    The Trade Mission will include two stops: Cairo, Egypt and Kuwait 
City, Kuwait.
    Cairo is the capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. A 
majority of the nation's commerce is generated in Cairo and regional 
headquarters of numerous businesses and organizations are located in 
the city. The business week runs from Sunday through Thursday.
    Kuwait City is the capital of Kuwait. The business week runs from 
Sunday through Thursday.
    In each city, participants will meet with new business contacts, 
learn about the markets by participating in Embassy briefings, and 
explore additional opportunities at networking receptions. Activities 
will include one-on-one business appointments with pre-screened 
business prospects.

[[Page 33442]]



                           Proposed Timetable
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Saturday......................  9 March..........  Arrival in Cairo.
Sunday........................  10 March.........  Orientation and
                                                    market briefings,
                                                    business luncheon
                                                    with American
                                                    Chamber of Commerce
                                                    and U.S.
                                                    Ambassador's
                                                    networking
                                                    reception.
Monday........................  11 March.........  One-on-one business
                                                    appointments;
                                                    business lunch--GAFI
                                                    presentation on
                                                    major PPP projects;
                                                    group dinner on Nile
                                                    Maxim Cruise boat.
Tuesday.......................  12 March.........  One-on-one business
                                                    appointments,
                                                    evening departure
                                                    for Kuwait.
Wednesday.....................  13 March.........  Orientation and
                                                    market briefings,
                                                    Kuwait Chamber of
                                                    Commerce one-on-one
                                                    business
                                                    appointments and
                                                    KCCI luncheon,
                                                    reception at U.S.
                                                    Ambassador's
                                                    residence.
Thursday......................  14 March.........  Meeting at Kuwait Oil
                                                    Company, American
                                                    Business Council of
                                                    Kuwait luncheon, and
                                                    one-on-one business
                                                    appointments.
                                                   Depart Kuwait on
                                                    evening flight or
                                                    depart following
                                                    day.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

End of Mission

Participation Requirements

    All parties interested in participating in the Trade Mission to 
Egypt and Kuwait must complete and submit an application package for 
consideration by the U.S. Department of Commerce. All applicants will 
be evaluated on their ability to meet certain conditions and best 
satisfy the selection criteria as outlined below. A minimum of 15 and a 
maximum of 20 companies will be selected to participate in the mission 
from the applicant pool. U.S. companies already doing business in the 
target markets as well as U.S. companies seeking to enter these markets 
for the first time are encouraged to apply.
Fees and Expenses
    After a company has been selected to participate on the mission, a 
payment to the U.S. Department of Commerce in the form of a 
participation fee is required. The participation fee will be $3,350 for 
a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME)\*\ and $4,230 for large firms. 
The fee for each additional company representative (SME or large firm) 
is $700. Expenses for travel, lodging, most meals, interpreters, and 
incidentals will be the responsibility of each mission participant. 
Delegation members will be able to take advantage of Embassy rates for 
hotel rooms.
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    * 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 (for additional information see 
http://www.export.gov/newsletter/march2008/initiatives.html).
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Conditions for Participation
     An applicant must submit a completed and signed mission 
application and supplemental application materials, including adequate 
information on the company's products and/or services, primary market 
objectives, and goals for participation. If the U.S. Department of 
Commerce receives an incomplete application, the Department may reject 
the application, request additional information, or take the lack of 
information into account when evaluating the applications.
     Each applicant must also certify that the products and 
services it seeks to export through the mission are either produced in 
the United States, or, if not, marketed under the name of a U.S. firm 
and have at least 51 percent U.S. content.
Selection Criteria for Participation
    Selection will be based on the following criteria:

 Suitability of the company's products or services to the 
targeted markets
 Applicant's potential for business in the target markets, 
including likelihood of exports resulting from the mission
 Consistency of the applicant's goals and objectives with the 
stated scope of the mission

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

Timeframe for Recruitment and Applications

    Mission recruitment will be conducted in an open and public manner, 
including posting Export.gov--and other Internet Web sites; publication 
in trade publications and association newsletters; direct outreach to 
the Department's clients; posting in the Federal Register; and 
announcements at industry meetings, symposia, conferences, and trade 
shows.
    Recruitment for the mission will begin June 6, 2012 and conclude no 
later than December 14, 2012. Applications received after December 14, 
2012 will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints 
permit. We will inform applicants of selection decisions as soon as 
possible after December 14, 2012. Applications received after that date 
will be considered only if space and scheduling constraints permit.
U.S. Commercial Service International Contacts
Egypt
    Dennis Simmons, Deputy Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Commercial 
Service-Egypt, Embassy of the United States of America, Tel: 2 (02) 
2797-2610, [email protected].
Kuwait
    Isabella Cascarano, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Commercial 
Service-Kuwait, Embassy of the United States of America, Tel: (965) 
2259-1354, [email protected].
U.S. Commercial Service Washington, DC Contacts:
Anne Novak, Domestic Operations, [email protected], Tel: (202) 482-
8178.
Salahuddin Tauhidi, U.S. Commercial Service--Washington, DC, Africa, 
Near East and South Asia, [email protected], Tel: (202) 482-
1322.

Elnora Moye,
Trade Programs Assistant.
[FR Doc. 2012-13629 Filed 6-5-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-FP-P