Doing Business in Africa (E.O. 13675)

Summary

Establishes a council of private business members to advise the President on how to increase trade and investment between the U.S. and Africa.

What problem does this solve?

The United States wants to increase trade with Africa to create jobs and economic growth for both regions. This order creates an advisory council of business experts to help the government develop effective strategies to achieve this goal.

What does this order do?

Establishes the President's Advisory Council on Doing Business in Africa

Creates a new advisory council to provide information and recommendations to the President on how to strengthen business ties between the United States and Africa.

Defines council membership

Specifies the council will have up to 15 members from the private business world, including small businesses, from industries like infrastructure, agriculture, and banking.

Outlines council duties

Tasks the council with advising on job creation, identifying investment opportunities, building business partnerships, and helping U.S. companies participate in Africa's development.

Sets a two-year term for the council

States the council will end two years after the date of the order, unless the President decides to extend it.

Specifies members will not be paid

Clarifies that members of the advisory council will serve without receiving any payment or reimbursement for their expenses.

Who does this affect?

U.S. companies
African businesses and entrepreneurs
U.S. government agencies involved in commerce

What is the real world impact?

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Boosts U.S. economic growth

Encourages U.S. companies to enter growing African markets, which can lead to more jobs and economic expansion in the United States.

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Strengthens international partnerships

Builds stronger commercial and diplomatic relationships between the U.S. and African nations by focusing on shared economic interests and mutual growth.

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Increases corporate influence on foreign policy

Gives a formal platform for up to 15 corporate leaders to directly advise the President, potentially prioritizing business interests in U.S. foreign policy toward Africa.

When does this start?

This order takes effect on August 5, 2014, and sets specific deadlines for actions.

Council Establishment Deadline

The Secretary of Commerce must establish the Advisory Council within 180 days of August 5, 2014.

Council Termination Date

The Advisory Council is set to end two years after August 5, 2014, unless the President extends its operation.