USAID is increasing its microfinance assistance in the coming five years to more than double the number of poor entrepreneurs who will benefit. In agriculture, producers receive assistance to develop their own organizations, enhance technical capacities, and expand domestic and export sales. The dynamic information and communications technology sector also benefits from USAID's assistance in training and business formation.

The U.S. has identified Egypt's financial sector as a key force in guiding the economy towards job-creating investments, and USAID is supporting financial privatization and

technical strengthening in areas including commercial banking, real-estate finance, and insurance. The macroeconomic stability required for a growing economy is a priority concern of the Egyptian government, which is drawing on U.S. expertise, financed and supported by USAID. Increased openness to international trade is supported through assistance for improved procedures at ports, customs reforms, participation in trade-opening initiatives with the WTO, and continued promotion of U.S.-Egypt trade through the Private Sector CIP for industrial inputs.

To support Egyptians efforts for more democratic governance and an improved business environment, USAID will be assisting GOE Ministries, Egyptian law schools and regulatory agencies to strengthen laws governing the business sector and to foster transparency and consistent application.

Environment and Antiquities: Managing the environment and natural resources

Through policy reform, capacity-building, public-private partnerships and citizen awareness activities, USAID assists Egyptian efforts to improve environmental and natural resource management in four areas: Nile water; Red Sea natural resources; urban/industrial pollution; and energy efficiency.

For more information, contact USAID/Egypt Public Outreach Office, tel.: (202) 522- 6547,
or visit our web-site: http://egypt.usaid.gov