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Map of Georgia (Former Soviet Union)

United States Department of Agriculture
U.S.–Georgia Trade and Investment Mission

May 15–19, 2006

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From May 15–19, 2006, the United States Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) will conduct a Trade and Investment Mission to Georgia. The mission is funded by the U.S. Department of State's Freedom Support Act. Most in-country costs (ground transportation, translation, meeting facilities, and hotel room costs) will be covered by the U.S. Government. The American company costs are limited to air travel to and from Tbilisi, Georgia, and meals.

A primary aim of the USDA mission is to promote trade and investment, particularly in agricultural processing equipment, inputs, livestock genetics, ready-to-eat products, meat and poultry, and grain and feed sectors.

The investment mission is supported by the Georgian government, which will participate through the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Economy and Trade.

Georgia Offers U.S. Partners:

  • GDP is projected to grow by 8.5 percent in 2005 and by an annual average of about 5 percent during 2006-08;
     
  • Bilateral investment treaties with 25 countries, including the United States;
     
  • No currency controls;
     
  • Tax reform and impressive privatization programs;
     
  • Established American business presence. American companies make up the largest group of foreign investors in Georgia. Last year alone, private American companies invested over $94.2 million in Georgia;
     
  • No conditions on permission to invest, no excessively onerous visa, residence or work permit requirements;
     
  • Increased efforts to privatize state property;
     
  • An educated labor force, widespread local land ownership, and a long tradition of entrepreneurship;
     
  • Strategic geographic location on the "Silk Road" between Europe and Asia and access to the former Soviet Union republics;
     
  • Abundant natural resources, fertile land and a favorable climate enable diverse agricultural production, including a range of fruits and vegetables, livestock, dairy products, nuts, and tea.
  • Here Is How USDA Will Support You:

  • One-on-one meetings with agribusinesses in Georgia interested in doing business with American companies;
     
  • Presentations by key Ministries on agribusiness climate, programs and partnerships;
     
  • Overview of macroeconomic situation, legal and regulatory environment, banking sector, privatization process, investment climate, and U.S. Government business assistance programs;
     
  • Assist with site visits as necessary and appropriate; and
     
  • Ground transportation, translation, meeting facilities, and hotel room costs in Georgia paid by USDA.
  • Please contact USDA as soon as possible—space is limited, and participants will be selected on a first- come, first-served basis. To apply, or for more information, please contact:

    Darrell A. Upshaw
    USDA/Foreign Agricultural Service
    Tel: (202) 690-1786, Fax: (202) 690-3982
    E-mail:
    Darrell.Upshaw@usda.gov  

     


    Last modified: Wednesday, January 18, 2006