USAID?s Trade Central Asia Activity

The USAID/Central Asia is seeking information to inform the design of a new activity, the Trade Central Asia activity, which aims to support the development of trade in the region. The activity will focus on reducing barriers to trade, improving the investment climate, and increasing connectivity between Central Asia and other regions. The USAID is seeking feedback on several questions, including what investments would yield the highest return, what areas of trade facilitation are being worked on by other donor agencies, and what sectors have the most potential for diversification. • The Trade Central Asia activity will serve as the central regional trade development mechanism for USAID’s Central Asia regional mission under its Competitive Trade and Markets project. • The activity will support the United States Government’s Strategy for Central Asia 2019-2025, which includes objectives such as supporting and strengthening the sovereignty and independence of the Central Asian States, promoting United States investment in and development of Central Asia, and encouraging connectivity between Central Asia and Afghanistan. • The activity will have several expected results, including reduced tariff and non-tariff barriers, reduced cross-border impediments and procedures, and improved investment climate and business environment for trade.