The U.S. Government, through its development arm the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is supporting Ag-Biz North 2013, an agricultural trade exhibition in Killinochchi from 26-27 July. This support is part of a $996,000 grant to develop livelihoods opportunities for vulnerable families in the agriculture and fisheries sectors through new markets, infrastructure and provision of critical training and equipment. NGO Practical Action is the implementing partner.

"Agriculture and fishing remain essential to the northern economy.  This timely initiative will help resettling communities in the region re-start and improve their livelihoods in these sectors, and thereby contribute to the region's economic growth", says Todd Sorenson, USAID Sri Lanka's Acting Mission Director.

At the event, participants will be able to explore the latest products and technologies, build new market linkages and learn about new loan opportunities.  Ag-Biz North 2013 is organized by the National Agribusiness Council, a body created with support from USAID in the 1990s, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the international NGO, Practical Action.

The American people, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, have provided development and humanitarian assistance in developing countries worldwide for nearly 50 years. Since 1956, USAID/Sri Lanka has invested over $2 billion to benefit all the people of Sri Lanka.