U.S. Government Supports Lebanese Economic Growth In The BEQA’A

July 21, 2009

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Lebanon Mission Director Denise A. Herbol witnessed the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding (MOU), part of the USAID Lebanon Business Linkages Initiative program.

The Agriculture Cooperative Development International-Volunteers in Oversees Cooperative Assistance (ACDI/VOCA) and Golden Valley Coop in Ksara MOU focuses on the Lebanese agriculture supply chain.  Farmers and farming cooperatives will increase their capacity to meet the Lebanese food processors needs, thus reducing dependence on imported produce.

The ACDI/VOCA and Fresh World International in Chtaura MOU focuses on increasing the supply and marketability of fresh produce for both domestic and export consumption.  Cherries, apricots and seedless grapes are the initial crops on which the project will focus. 

The Lebanon Business Linkages Initiative program is a $4.5 million USAID program which builds the capacity of small and medium sized enterprises.  These two new agreements will increase employment opportunities for approximately 200 people in one year.   Lebanon’s ability to compete in the marketplace will become increasingly effective.