Legal Definitions - United States Trade and Development Agency

The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is an independentfederal agency that promotes trade between the United States and developing countries. Its main goal is to create jobs in the United States and to promote economic progress in poorer nations.

The USTDA was established in 1961 as the Trade and Development Program and was renamed in 1992. It works with businesses and governments in developing countries to identify and fund projects that will benefit both the United States and the partner country.

For example, the USTDA might fund a project to build a new airport in a developing country. This project would create jobs in the United States for companies that provide the materials and equipment needed for the airport construction. At the same time, the new airport would improve transportationinfrastructure in the partner country, making it easier for businesses to import and export goods.

Another example of USTDA's work is funding a project to improve a developing country's energy infrastructure. This project would create jobs in the United States for companies that provide the technology and equipment needed for the energy project. At the same time, the improved energy infrastructure would help the partner country to provide reliable electricity to its citizens, which would promote economic growth.