USAID & JFBPW distributes the "Export Toolkit" to businesswomen.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through the Sustainable Achievement of Business Expansion and Quality Program (SABEQ) disseminated the Export Toolkit to businesses looking to export their products during an event held at the Sheraton Hotel on Sunday April 13, 2008. The toolkit was developed in association with the Jordan Forum for Business and Professional Women (JFBPW) for their members and other organizations.

During the event, USAID/SABEQ Light Manufacturing Sector Lead, Ziad Abbasi, explained the benefits of the Export Toolkit which is a quick reference checklist guide for businesses looking to export their products. The toolkit includes steps to be considered in various stages including marketing, investment, and international best practices.

Senator Mrs. Wijdan Al Saket AL Talhouni, Chair Person of Jordan Forum for Business and Professional Women (JFBPW) stated: "The initial idea came out of the recommendations of the National Conference held last year. We adopted this recommendation, promised to deliver it, and today we have proudly done so". This initiative in opening doors towards export is part of JFBPW continuous efforts in its mission to help build economic life in Jordan; and a way of broadening the minds of Jordanian businessmen & women to target external markets and help in widening Jordanian exports. "The export kit offers users guidance and thoughts for reaching out to other markets and societies. We know that it will be a vital tool for those who strive for more" Senator Talhouni added.SABEQ Deputy Chief of Party, Mrs. Carol Swan, stated "The Exporting Toolkit is one of USAID/SABEQ's initiatives to enhance Jordanian exports by highlighting ways of alleviating some of the challenges faced by small and medium exporters in Jordan. The Exporting Toolkit was designed to achieve several objectives; It aims at explaining basic procedures to export, increasing export awareness among Jordanian companies, and enhancing the export process in light of the intense competition witnessed in the world market. "This is one of many initiatives carried out by USAID through SABEQ to support private sector growth and expand their share in the market. An initiative such as this, if utilized correctly and efficiently, will have a positive impact on the overall economy." She added

Jordan Forum for Business and Professional Women has been established in 1976. JFBPW main mission is to be the platform that develops, empowers and advocates for business and professional women in Jordan. This initiative is part of JFBPWs efforts in increasing the contribution of businesswomen in the economic development in Jordan.The USAID-funded Sustainable Achievement of Business Expansion and Quality Program (SABEQ) is a five year broad economic development initiative implemented by BearingPoint, Inc. and a sizeable team of international and Jordanian partner firms. By both supporting improvements in the business environment and providing assistance to expand innovation and productivity in Jordanian businesses, to support the main objective of building up the private sector as a powerful engine of economic growth.

[c] 2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)