The agribusiness program is a $209 million, 3-year program with two 1-year option periods. If both option years are exercised, the estimated amount of the contract will be approximately $343 million. The agribusiness program promotes economic diversification and job generation, with an emphasis on the growth of the agriculture and agribusiness sectors in the provincial, regional, and subregional economies.

The program also advances the key foreign policy priority of promoting stability and economic opportunity throughout Iraq by building the capacity of and providing productivity tools to farmers, agribusinesses, and small- and medium-sized entrepreneurs to become more competitive and profitable in domestic and international markets. It is also anticipated that increased economic opportunity could improve social and political stability and reduce violence.

This audit will determine whether USAID/Iraq’s agribusiness program is providing effective support for economic diversification and job creation.

Source: Office of Inspector General - ANNUAL PLAN - FISCAL YEAR 2010

AUDIT REPORT NO. E-267-11-002-P MAY 16, 2011