In the decades following the collapse of the Soviet Union, many of the former Soviet republics bordering the Caucasus mountains and the Caspian Sea, in what is commonly referred to as the ‘Greater Caspian Region,’ have developed growing trade ties with the American private sector. As they continue to modernize and diversify their economies, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has proven an invaluable partner in accelerating sustainable and accountable economic activity, through targeted projects jointly benefiting Greater Caspian countries and American citizens.
The USAID Private Sector Activity (PSA), based in Azerbaijan, is the donor’s latest endeavor to improve economic outcomes for the people of Azerbaijan. PSA is a five-year, $15 million partnership designed to strengthen the agricultural sector and provide new regional opportunities for American agribusinesses.
Here’s how it works: PSA team members on the ground work closely with regional partner organizations to develop networks of farmers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s), and larger operations interested in gaining new American products and technologies. Meanwhile, PSA team members in the United States cultivate networks of American agribusiness suppliers interested in selling their products overseas.
Once a business expresses interest in exporting and gains USAID’s approval, PSA supports market entry by helping to design marketing materials for partner businesses tailored to the target market and translate those materials into the local language. Next, the PSA team supports the promotion of American products and services through its social media channels, including regional advertisements of their products to the target audience of farmers and agribusinesses in the region.
Utilizing a combination of digital marketing and established regional networks, PSA connects American agribusinesses with the right partners, facilitating discussions and ensuring equitable trade agreements for all parties involved.
One of the strongest advantages of working with PSA is that, once a trade agreement is signed, PSA assists partner businesses through the intricacies of the exporting process. Whether a business needs assistance with export documentation and customs clearance, cost-effective shipping arrangements, or would like to experiment with product sample trials, PSA’s experienced team offers the expertise necessary to bring American products to market.
Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Central Asia, the Greater Caspian presents opportunities to expand into new markets in any direction. PSA is ready to help your business take advantage of the unique opportunity to gain traction in emerging markets.
For more information please contact us HERE to begin your exporting journey.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article and services provided by USAID contractors for the implementation of USAID projects do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.