USAID is working with the public and private sectors in Moldova to achieve broad-based economic growth, reduce poverty, and strengthen the market economy. USAID works with clusters of industries and through industry associations in order to help increase the private sector’s competitiveness in global markets.  Reforming the regulatory and legal framework to promote investment is another programmatic focus. Finally, strengthening the Moldovan agriculture sector – the country’s economic backbone – is a core programmatic area that builds an export base and increases incomes for Moldovans. While economic growth is fundamental to achieving the country’s European integration goal, it is also, and more importantly, the basis for Moldova’s ability to provide adequate social services and protections to citizens.  In particular, through job creation and a growing economy, vulnerable groups – particularly women and girls – have more access to economic opportunity and are less susceptible to being lured into human trafficking.