Bulletins

Receive complimentary summaries on trends and best practices by email.
Subscriptions available here.

Results for Geographies

Latin America

The Fastest Growing Latin American Industries for 2013-2015


April 26, 2012. Strong commodity pricing, growing consumer markets and low interest rates underpin continued economy growth in Latin America. What do market experts predict for the region’s fastest growing industries? What do creeping protectionism, increased competition and corruption spell for international companies in places like Brazil, Argentina and Mexico?

Read more

North America

How to Size Markets in Canada and Realize Their True Potential

April 26, 2012. There is often very little publicly available data describing the details of markets in Canada. One common rule of thumb that is used by some multinational companies equates Canadian markets, industries and segments to 10 percent of their US counterparts, but this practice is outdated. Even though the US is Canada’s biggest and closest trading partner – the US buys 75 percent of Canada’s exports and produces 50 percent of its imports - Canada’s unique geography, politics, economy and markets mean that the country is not simply a smaller version of its neighbour. How can strategic business planners provide accurate market sizing reports on Canada to their CEOs and boards?

Read more

Asia: Greater China

Top 3 Concerns of American Competitive Intelligence  Managers about China


March 28, 2012. While U.S. companies remain committed to competing in the China market, most are less optimistic about their business prospects in China, with bureaucracy, an unclear regulatory environment and a lack of transparency seen as key hindrances to business in China - on top of rising costs and increasing competition. Indeed, much uncertainty also hangs in the air regarding the once-in-a-decade changeover in the political guard this year.

Read more

Russia & CIS

Successful Go-to-Market Strategies for Markets in Russia and CIS

February 13, 2012. Russia's formal accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) has been hailed the world over. Some estimate the impact on the economy will be the equivalent of one percent annual growth in gross domestic product. As tariffs are abolished or reduced and custom procedures adjusted, the decision between producing locally versus importing will be of strategic importance to business models, taxes and logistics. Several industries, such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, chemicals, agriculture and automotive, will see the greatest changes. What does this mean to international companies looking to expand into Russia?

Read more

Russia & CIS

Market Intelligence in Companies in Russia and CIS Countries Lag Behind Global Peers in Scope and Budgets

December 13, 2011. Results from the  2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey show that companies in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) tend to think more highly of their systematic market intelligence than companies in other regions. But when compared along other parameters, companies in this region appear to have a great deal of work ahead of them in achieving world class market intelligence programs.

Read more

Northern Europe

Swedish Companies Fall Behind Global Averages in Systematic Market Intelligence Activities

November 29, 2011. Swedish companies have often been among the more advanced market intelligence practitioners, but results from the  2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey show a changing picture.  The prevalence of  market intelligence programs is high in Sweden, with 82% of companies reporting to have a systematic market intelligence function in place. How do Swedish companies operate their market intelligence functions?

Read more

North America

Value of Market Intelligence Function Recognized in North America

November 22, 2011. North American companies are among the more advanced market intelligence practitioners, and the 2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey confirmed this. The prevalence of market intelligence programs is high in North America, with 84% of companies reporting to have a market intelligence function in place. How do North American companies operate their market intelligence functions?

Read more

Latin America

Investments in Market Intelligence in Brazil Set To Increase


October 26, 2011. Brazil is still suffering from the 2011 crisis – in spite of a quick rebound. This means that companies in the country are seeing stronger competition, and there is little room for strategic mistakes. Knowing one’s competitive environment is key for survival and growth. The 2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey indicates that 60% of Brazilian companies plan to increase their investment in market intelligence programs, while the remaining 40% plan to maintain current levels.

Read more

Western Europe

Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg Score Well on Market Intelligence Activities

October 20, 2011. Companies in the Benelux region tend to have large market intelligence teams and by far some of the largest Market Intelligence budgets globally. According to the 2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey, they also have systematic market intelligence operations that pay off. What is behind their success?

Read more

Latin America

Best Practices in Conducting Market Intelligence in Latin America


October 17, 2011. Latin America has not been spared the effects of the current global economic crisis. While strong domestic markets support countries such as Brazil, a decrease in external demand and the deterioration of currency rates are issues to be solved in the short term. Regulatory, tax models and interest rates need to be reformed. How can international companies capture the right opportunities in Latin American markets at the right time?

Read more

Western Europe

Market Intelligence is Well Established in the UK with Half Intending to Increase Their Intelligence Budgets

October 11, 2011. Companies in the United Kingdom (UK) are currently facing a difficult economic climate. Does this mean smaller budgets and fewer resources for market intelligence programs? The 2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey suggests the opposite. Half of the UK companies surveyed intend to increase their market intelligence investments while only 2% plan to decrease their budgets.

Read more

Western Europe

German Companies to Invest Further in Market Intelligence

November 10, 2011. Top management and main decision makers in Germany’s large and medium-sized companies agree that their decision making has benefited from having systematic market intelligence functions. The Global Market Intelligence Survey 2011 which was conducted in March 2011 by Global Intelligence Alliance, showed that a large number of companies also plan to invest further in improving their market intelligence processes.

Read more

Northern Europe

Scope for Finnish Companies to Encourage More Internal Stakeholders to Contribute to Market Intelligence

October 6, 2011. Finnish companies have often been among the more advanced market intelligence practitioners, and the 2011 Global Market Intelligence Survey confirmed this. The prevalence of market intelligence programs is high in Finland, with 82% of companies reporting to have a market intelligence function in place. How do Finnish companies operate their market intelligence functions?

Read more

Intelligence Best Practices – June 22, 2011

Trusted Market Intelligence Advisors Ask Questions and Collaborate

Many market intelligence professionals find it challenging to get the top management’s ear and not to be pigeonholed as mere data providers. How can a market intelligence team step up their game and create more value? How to provide intelligence that management will have the faith to base their decisions upon? 

Read more

Energy, Resources & Environment – June 13, 2011

Professional Services to Address Critical Infrastructure Disruptions

The industrialized world today is highly dependent on a relatively small number of utilities that supply power, water and fuel, that are facing environmental, social and political threats in increasing numbers. Such hazards can compromise Critical National Infrastructures (CNIs) and businesses, on a single entity, market region or even global scale. There are now security companies and consulting firms that are taking on the responsibilities that traditionally belonged to governments in increasing numbers. What potential disruptions to critical infrastructures should companies pay most attention to?

Read more

Central & Eastern Europe – June 2, 2011

Significant Changes in Consumer Behaviour in Central and Eastern Europe Expected

Consumer and retail companies have been eyeing countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) as potential target markets. The latest figures confirm strong market prospects over the next few years, as the region recovers from the global financial crisis, with Central Europe with Poland leading the way. What are some factors that new market entrants should take note of?

Read more

Asia: Greater China – May 18, 2011

Three Rising Sectors within China’s Luxury Market

According to Michael Ouyang, CEO of the World Luxury Association’s China office, "China will take the place of Japan and become the world's largest consumer market for luxury goods. More than 70% of the brands will try to accelerate a shift in their development focus from Japan to China this year”. Major groups such as PPR, Titan, Richemont or LVMH have been forced to compensate for lost consumer sales from in Japan after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami by focusing even more on China. Foreign brands dominate high street fashion, top-end automobiles, jewellery and luxury timepieces in China today. What opportunities are there to tap?

Read more

Asia Pacific – April 29, 2011

Continuous Monitoring and Issue-Driven Market Intelligence in Asia-Pacific Key to Success

Asia Pacific holds a wealth of opportunities for different industries – from outsourcing production to reaching out to new target customers. However, diversity at both regional and local levels poses a significant challenge to navigating the markets, and to defining a successful strategy. What are some of the defining characteristics of the region’s markets, and how can Market Intelligence be employed to help assess opportunities and plan growth strategies?

Read more

Africa - April 21, 2011

Southern Africa: The Next BRIC

Southern African Development Community nations welcome foreign direct investment, proclaimed South African Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe in March 2011. The first step for foreign investors is to invest in market entry research to evaluate the business potential of Southern Africa markets verses concerns over local governments, intellectual property rights, business practices, partners and possible market barriers. Best practices in such market intelligence are discussed in the  Market Intelligence for Southern Africa webinar.

Read more

Asia: Greater China – April 17, 2011

The Impact of New Party Leaders on Market Intelligence in China

China is preparing for the transition to a new generation of political leaders foreseen for the end of 2012. China remains the centre of focus for many international businesses and this major political change will require close monitoring. Understanding all the different nuances of operating in this diverse market is critical to success. GIA’s China practice provides some insights through the upcoming webinar on Market Intelligence for China.

Read more

M&A and Partnering - April 11

Implications of China’s Latest Five-Year Plan on Mergers and Acquisitions

On March 14, the Chinese government passed its twelfth Five-Year Plan that spelt out the broad economic policy for China from 2011 to 2015. With it came a new state-level investment review body and a renewed focus on domestic consumption, wealth distribution and local industry consolidation via mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and joint ventures. How will foreign firms with M&A interests be affected?

Read more

Best Practices - April 7, 2011

GIA's Intelligence Best Practices Online Service Extending Its Coverage on Developing Intelligence Programs

Not able to make it to the upcoming GIA Conference in Amsterdam? Need to benchmark best practices to develop your intelligence program? No worries! Tap on GIA's extensive pool of market intelligence expertise through GIA's Intelligence Best Practices Online service, available for subscription.  Learn from best-in-class companies such as ABB, Best Buy, Brady Corporation, Cintas, Cisco Systems, Dunkin’ Brands, Fujitsu, General Electric, Genesys, IBM, Itella, Johnson Controls, Merck & Co., Monster Worldwide, Nokia, Nycomed, Philips, Procter & Gamble, Wärtsilä and Shell.

Read more

World Class Market Intelligence - December 9, 2010

Perfecting the Scope of Your Market Intelligence Activity

How to eat an elephant? Absurd as it may sound, Market Intelligence executives setting up intelligence programs frequently face this dilemma when defining the scope of their future activities. The GIA White Paper release webinar on Intelligence Scope, one of the six Key Success Factors of a world class intelligence program as defined by GIA, tackles these issues and more.

Read more

Best Practices - December 3, 2010

GIA’s Intelligence Best Practices Online service launched

Missed the GIA Conference in New York? No worries! Tap on GIA’s extensive pool of market intelligence expertise through GIA’s Intelligence Best Practices Online service, now available for subscription.

Read more

Asia-Pacific – November 12, 2010

Market Intelligence for Asia-Pacific

Increasingly large budgets have been spent on market intelligence in the Asia Pacific region in recent years, mainly driven by interest in the emerging markets of China and India. With the region’s rapid growth, pace of change and diversity however, many companies find it very challenging to stay on top of local market characteristics and opportunities along their targeted value chains. The upcoming webinar on Market Intelligence for Asia Pacific will provide practical insights into the region for market intelligence professionals, strategic planners and business decision makers.

Read more

Asia-Pacific – October 26, 2010

Overcoming the Challenges in Market Intelligence for India

India presents lucrative business opportunities, but both foreign and domestic enterprises face formidable challenges in conducting business there. Dealing with construction permits requires around 195 days and 37 procedures while enforcing contracts requires 1,420 days and 46 procedures, for instance.

Read more

Russia & CIS – September 30, 2010

The Best Picks of Russia’s Buoyant Economy

Russia posted GDP per capita of US$15,800 in 2009, higher than any other BRIC nation last year. Brazil finished second at US$10,100, China third at US$6,000 and India a distant fourth at US$2,800, according to Goskomstat figures. Consumer markets in Russia are booming while set up costs for new businesses are still relatively low. High debt-to-equity ratios at many leading Russian companies make them attractive acquisition targets. So which Russian industries will be appealing market entry options for foreign companies over the next three years?

Read more

Latin America – September 28, 2010

2014 World Cup Opportunities Beckon Foreign Investors to Brazil

Ahead of the World Cup in 2014, Brazil's government has approved nearly $3 billion to expand and renovate 16 airports, and guaranteed another $400 million in investments related to the country's ports. The allocations come amid criticism from soccer's international governing body, FIFA, that Brazil is not meeting its infrastructure obligations in advance of the tournament. What are some opportunities that may trickle down to international companies?

Read more

India – September 16, 2010

Consumer Medical Devices to Cater to India’s Increasingly Urbanized Middle Class

By the end of this year, over 60% of the entire Indian population will be classified as middle-class, according to a survey by CRISIL. Many live in India’s tier 1 and tier 2 cities, and some may earn as much as USD20,000 per year - or the equivalent of over USD100,000 per year in India when adjusted for purchasing power parity. Changing lifestyles and eating habits, an over-taxed healthcare system and a dearth of healthcare services are opening up new opportunities for the healthcare sector.

Read more

Greater China – September 15, 2010

Already Better Than the Olympics – A Midpoint Review of the Shanghai World Expo

The Shanghai World Expo 2010 is expected to attract 70 million visitors and generate approximately nine billion dollars worth of income for the city and the Yangtze River Delta. Held between May and October this year, it is expected to generate nearly 3.5 times the revenue of the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics, which lasted 17 days. What are some of the costs and the benefits to date?.

Read more

World Class Market Intelligence – September 1, 2010

How to Set Up World Class Market Intelligence Programs

Market intelligence practitioners have grappled with multiple challenges for a long while. How to develop a company’s internal intelligence network? How to gain insights in a broad range of specialized topics? How to share market signals? How to maximize the output from internal resources? Economic instability, global competition, marketplace changes and changing customer demands have added urgency to finding the answers to these questions.

Read more

Geographies – August 23, 2010

Development of Local Market Intelligence Capabilities in BRIC to Pick Up in Pace

Since the term ‘BRIC’ was coined by a Goldman Sachs economist in 2001, Brazil, Russia, India and China have proven to be amongst the world’s largest economies and fastest growing markets. Conducting world-class market intelligence in BRIC may remain an enormous challenge for those who are not intimately familiar with the terrain but the future is bright for those who have already set up a foothold, according to experts.

Read more

Logistics and Transportation – August 12, 2010

Innovation and Collaboration Key to Developing Europe’s Growing B2C Parcel Delivery Market

The business-to-consumer (B2C) parcel delivery market is one bright spot in the sluggish European logistics market, thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of consumer e-commerce. Online retailing in Western Europe is estimated to grow around 10% over the next few years, driving growth of Europe’s B2C parcel market at about the same pace – particularly in the UK in Western Europe and Poland or Estonia to the East. What are some key market developments?

Read more

Asia-Pacific – August 11, 2010

Internet TV Loved and Hated by Asian Pay-TV Industry

More than half Asia's Pay TV operators surveyed in our latest industry survey (54%) already carry High Definition (HD) channels. New technologies such as IPTV and 3D TV are seen as the greatest untapped opportunity – and the greatest threat – for traditional cable & satellite operators.

Read more

Manufacturing and Industrial – August 4, 2010

Copyright Issues Hold Back China’s Security Industry

Booming urbanization and a growing middle class in China is driving demand for commercial security solutions in the country. Government initiatives, such as community schemes like the Safe Cities Project or the 3111 Pilot Project, higher levels of policing and stimulus packages to develop western China, will further boost growth. How will the industry cope with demand?

Read more

Greater China – July 20, 2010

Where to Invest in China, the Land of Opportunity, Over the Next Three Years

The title “land of opportunity” belongs to China. Economists expect it to officially become the second largest economy this year and to continue growing at record rates. Many of its industries however, are well developed and established. Which new rising industries should investors consider putting their money into over the three years?

Read more

Africa – July 16, 2010

World Cup Scores a Goal for Southern African Businesses

The 2010 Football World Cup has, by all measures, been a resounding success. How has the World Cup changed Southern Africa and how has it impacted the future for the continent’s investors?

Read more

Latin America – July 6, 2010

Six Trends that will Shape Brazil's Consumer and Retail Market

Consumer and retail businesses in Brazil can anticipate a promising future. Employment rates and consumer groups are growing, while political risk, economic uncertainty and inflation continue to stabilize. Overall, the retail market grew by 15.7% in 2009; slightly over the 14% forecast growth. The segments presenting the highest growth were automobiles, at a record 32%, furniture and domestic appliances (25%), clothing and shoes (16%), tobacco and beverages (15.5%) and pharmaceutical and cosmetic items (15%).

Read more

Consumer & Retail – June 16, 2010

Golf and Leisure Industry Players Could Score Aces in China over the Next Few Years

China’s golf industry is expected to grow exponentially in the next few years and help boost tourism and real estate development along the way. Even though China is the world’s second largest source of golf equipment today, the country only has about 500 golf courses, compared to approximately 18,000 in the United States and 6,000 in Europe. This huge ‘handicap’ may soon be lowered, with the expiry of a six-year-old government ban on new course development from 2004.

Read more

India, Construction & Property Development – May 24, 2010

Knowledge Gap Hinders India Construction Industry’s Progress in Going Green

India has one of the fastest growing and most environmentally aware construction industries in the world. GIA research during Jan-Apr 2010 shows that local opinion leaders in India’s architectural, construction and property development community are unanimous in the view that their industry is big on going Green. However, lack of awareness and education are the two major restraints, aside from cost, on environmentally friendly property development.

Read more

M&A and Partnering – April 14, 2010

Tidal Wave of M&A Activity Expected from China in 2010 and Beyond

Chinese companies are showing themselves to be a major force in global mergers and acquisitions (M&As). 2009 was a landmark year in Chinese deal value and volumes. However, not all have proven to be strategically sound in post-deal analysis. What insights are there to be learnt from China’s foray into international markets?

Read more

Asia: Greater China – April 13, 2010

Foreign Companies Beware of China’s Changing Growth Drivers

With gross domestic product of US$4.9 trillion and a growth rate of 8% in 2009, China’s economy outperformed its global neighbors with aplomb. Investments in infrastructure and fixed assets, especially by the Central Government, helped lift the economy, generate jobs and create business opportunities. Will this be sustainable? What macroeconomic factors will impact foreign companies operating in China over the next three years?

Read more

Russia and CIS - March 31, 2010

Coming to Grips with the Challenges in Market Intelligence within Russia and the CIS regions

> Watch the Webinar Recording
> Download White Paper

The wealthiest market per capita of all BRIC countries, Russia combines the best of Europe and Asia. Together with the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), it offers rich mineral resources as well as intellectual and creative potential. How does one conduct Market Intelligence on its opportunities while avoiding its risks? The GIA white paper “Market Intelligence in Russia & CIS” addresses this question, and more.

Read more

Asia Pacific - December 11, 2009

China Will Continue to be the Focus of Market Intelligence Activities in Asia Pacific Region, Customer Intelligence to Increase Overall 

The economic downturn has meant budget cuts on Market Intelligence activities conducted by global and regional companies operating in the Asia Pacific, with a greater focus on securing customers. Companies nonetheless recognize the need for MI, and the scope for development is evident when comparing Asia Pacific companies to counterparts in Europe and North America.

Read more

Africa - December 4, 2009

African Companies Confident about Future Investments in Market Intelligence but Lag behind in Systematic Market Monitoring

The global recession has left few industries untouched, and it has had an influential impact on Market Intelligence* activities in African organizations. The demand for high quality market information has probably never been as imperative as now, with new opportunities and threats rapidly emerging in the marketplace. These sentiments were reflected in the African responses to the Global Market Intelligence Survey 2009. (The total number of responses reached 724.)

Read more

Northern Europe - December 2, 2009

Northern European Companies Use Market Intelligence most Widely, but Lag behind Other Regions in Sophistication 

The global economic downturn hit Northern Europe hard. Companies have had to focus and prioritize, and while doing so, to think about what Market Intelligence is absolutely vital, why, when, and to whom. This crisis however, may help rise the level of sophistication to match other developed regions, according to the Global Market Intelligence survey.

Read more

North America - December 2, 2009

61% North American Companies Intend to Increase Investments in Market Intelligence in 2010-2011

Many North American companies have spent the last two years focused on tighter cost management and improving their competitive advantage. The recession has been a huge wake-up call on the important role of Market Intelligence* in strategic business decision-making. Market Intelligence has been underutilized to date.

Read more

Western Europe - November 30, 2009

50% Western European Companies Intend to Increase Market Intelligence Investments in 2010-2011

Even as Western Europe shows signs of recovery from the 2008 economic downturn, companies continue to be threatened by price erosion, overcapacity, consolidation and new competitors over the next two years. What impact will this have on Market Intelligence* (MI) in the region?

Read more

Russia & CIS - October 28, 2009

Market Intelligence for Russia & CIS

Russia is a vast country with a large population. What are some key things that businesses entering the Russian and the CIS markets for the first time need to be aware of?

Read more

Central & Eastern Europe - October 15, 2009

Market Intelligence for Central and Eastern Europe

> Download White Paper

How do you distinguish between the numerous business opportunities in the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region? Which are worth studying further? 

Read more

Latin America - October 8, 2009

Market Intelligence for Latin America

> Watch the Webinar Recording
>
Download White Paper

What are the nuances and best practices of conducting research in Latin America, a region of 453 million people and three intra-regional continents?

Read more

Greater China - September 17, 2009

Market Intelligence for China

> Download White Paper

China has seen unprecedented levels of growth since it started on its market-led economic development and offers many untapped opportunities across its 32 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities, and 600-plus cities. How does one best conduct market intelligence (MI) in this huge market, in order to create practical strategies with real business impact? 

Read more

Energy, Resources & Environment - September 2009

Chasing after the Chinese Wind Energy Market

> Download White Paper

What implications does China's development into one of the wind energy powerhouses have for the global market? Kim Khoo, co-author of  the white paper "The Chinese Wind Energy Market" shares her thoughts.

Read more

Best Practices - August 13, 2009

Green Supply Chain Management in Asia-Pacific

> Download White Paper

What implications does the development of green practices in Asia-Pacific have for global supply chains? Kelvin Inn, Consulting Manager Hong Kong and co-author of the white paper "Green Supply Chain Management in Asia-Pacific" discusses sustainable practices in the manufacturing and logistics industries, and the role of sustainability in the Asia-Pacific.

Read more

Africa - April 29, 2009

Market Intelligence for Africa

Download White Paper

Weak infrastructure, poor transport systems, unreliable electricity supply and protracted customs procedures are some of the common challenges faced by international companies in Africa. What about the infrastructure to support Market Intelligence?

Read more

Geographies - April 15, 2009

GIA Highlights Need to Assess Opportunities from Global Stimulus Packages

The global stimulus packages announced by various governments in response to the current financial crisis impact companies along the value chains of many industries. The challenge will be to identify quickly the impact, the favorable circumstances and the spending requirements in order to act on the opportunities that arise.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - January, 2009

Generation 'C' for Convergence

The convergence of professional audiovisual (pro-AV) products and information technology (IT) is leading to more sophisticated products and services. In fact, the extent to which both IT companies and pro-AV players embrace this convergence theme will define their future success.

Read more

Manufacturing & Industrial - December, 2008

Cartons Ride Out the Melamine Scandal in China

Production and consumption of milk and dairy products have experienced phenomenal growth in both urban and rural China over the past 10 years. Demand for milk and yogurt is expected to expand at annual growth rates of 22% and 31% respectively over the next five years.

Read more

Asia Pacific - December, 2008

Hanoi: Racing to be the ‘One’

In the popular ‘China plus one’ investment strategy, investors are being wooed by both Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi as they vie to be the ‘one’ to capture the most investment dollars.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Medial - September, 2008

IPTV Services Expected to Reshuffle Pay TV in Asia

In the midst of industry consolidation, deregulation and uptake of digital media, Pay TV operators in Asia find themselves in a period of transition.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - September, 2008

3G in S.E. Asia – Easier Said than Done

Market players in the mobile telecoms sector need to adopt targeted strategies to penetrate Southeast Asian markets with next generation 3G handsets.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - August, 2008

Electronics Manufacturing in S.E. Asia:
Eggs In More than One Basket

Large technology manufacturing companies are adopting a ‘China plus one’ strategy, seeking more balance in their Asian manufacturing and diversifying risk by being less dependent on China. This is in light of China’s rising labour costs, high employee turnover and to some extent, greater bureaucracy versus some governments in South East Asia.

Read more

Consumer & Retaill - August, 2008

Western Concern over ‘Safe’ Food Slow to Trickle down to China's Consumers

Food companies in China are paying more attention to food safety, certification and wholesome ingredients, driven by increased consumer concerns and media attention, particularly from major export markets.

Read more

Energy, Resources & Environment - August, 2008

Thirsty China Attracts Investment Flow in Water

China’s demand for clean water is projected to rise to 585 billion cubic metres per day by 2010. That is equivalent to 1,000 times the daily volume of water approaching Niagara Falls’ during peak flow season.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - January, 2008

China's Substantial TFT LCD Substrate Business

Flat panel Thin-Film Transistor Liquid Crystal Displays (TFT LCD) for TVs and computers are now rapidly replacing traditional Cathode Ray Tube displays by offering advantages in power efficiency, weight, definition and radiation. TFT LCD technology effectively enhances performance in terms of resolution, transmission and visual angles.

Read more

Energy, Resources & Environment - September 10, 2009

Global Growth in Offshore Fuels Local Procurement

Worldwide, offshore oil production is set to rise by about 43% in the next five years, with global offshore gas production projected to increase by 83% within four years. Malaysia, Indonesia and China will see major growth in offshore investment and production, driven by new finds, improved technologies and diagnostics, and continuing high fuel prices.

Read more

Manufacturing & Industrial - September, 2007

Factory Migration Fever yet to Hit East and North China

In view of rising land and labour costs in the Pearl River Delta region, many factories have been relocating to lower-cost areas within Guangdong province. This relocation trend has caused suppliers and customers along their value chains to adjust their business strategies accordingly.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - August, 2007

Macau Bets on IT to Manage Growth from Gaming

Major banks and hospitality companies in Macau expect casinos to play an increasingly major part in their business mix over the next two years – with some projecting as much as 30% casino-driven annual revenue growth.

Read more

Private Equity - July, 2007

All Eyes on M&A in China

Strong recent growth momentum in mainland China mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is only set to continue. The number of M&A deals jumped from 388 in 2003 to 824 in 2006, with deal value increasing similarly by almost 30% a year on average from US$29 billion to US$62 billion. Private equity deals have been the fastest growth area, up 75% per year, followed by domestic strategic deals (42%) and venture capital deals (28%).

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - April, 2007

Pay-TV Operators Still Circumspect about Mobile Content

Pay-television market players in Asia have started to see real returns in recent years. New digital services like interactive TV, mobile content and Internet Protocol television (IPTV) are generating huge interest and hype, with technological progress being made all the time and the boundaries between traditional media segments becoming more and more blurred.

Read more

Consumer & Retail - April, 2007

Chinese Consumers to Pamper Themselves

China represents the largest growing consumer market in the world today. With wages in China expected to be 4.5 times higher by 2020, researchers at the Economist Intelligence Unit forecast that at least 80million households will have an annual income in excess of US$7,500.

Read more

Chemicals - April, 2007

Electronics and Textile Sectors Top Chemical Producers’ Targets in China

2007 forecast puts China’s sizzling GDP growth this year at a more modest 9.7%, as opposed to 10.4% in 2006. While the robust growth momentum at a rate higher than GDP growth will continue in most chemical application markets, some sectors will likely experience a similar slowdown. The challenges for chemical companies will be prioritizing their business development efforts and building market share.

Read more

Financial Services - April, 2007

China Sees Double Digit Growth in High Net Worth Individuals in 2007

There are now 8.7 million people globally that hold more than US$1 million in financial assets, and are classified as High Net Worth Individuals, according to the latest World Wealth Report published by Capgemini and Merrill Lynch. This represents an increase of 6.5% over that of 2004.

Read more

Logistics & Transportation - April, 2007

Distribution and Transportation Major Challenges for Industrial Players in China

As the American economy cools, and as China’s domestic consumption increases, more of China’s rapidly growing output will be consumed at home. Already the forecasted GDP growth of 8% between 2006-2010 is expected to translate into a robust growth rate of 18% in the logistics sector, or 95 triilion RMB by 2010.

Read more

Consumer & Retail - March, 2007

The DIY Market has Gained a Foothold in China’s Biggest Cities

Since reaching RMB 195 billion in 2004, the DIY home furnishings market in China has been growing at double-digit rates and is expected to do so until 2010. The main pockets of this growth have centred on Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Zhejiang and Tianjin, where residents tend spend about 5% of their income on housing and decoration, the highest percentage nation-wide.

Read more

Chemicals - March, 2007

Rohm & Haas Rated Most Vigorous Chemical Company in Asia

Rohm & Haas is the most vigorous chemical company in Asia-Pacific, according to the latest Chemical Business Vitality IndexTM report from GIA, surpassing its chemical and energy sector peers with a winning combination of regional presence, revenue performance and innovation.

Read more

Manufacturing & Industrial - December, 2006

Shipbuilders Relocate to China

The world's shipbuilding industry is shifting to China, thanks to labour costs 10-20 times lower than those in Japan and Korea, and the success of marine engineering industry clusters in the Bohai Bay area and East China.

Read more

Consumer & Retail - September, 2006

Foreign Retailers Plan Massive Expansion in China

Chinese consumers spent over 500 billion US dollars in 2005. Top of their shopping lists are cars, white goods and consumer electronics, and for those who can afford to move to new homes, new furniture and fixtures.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - July, 2006

Optoelectronics Displays No Sign of Weakness

The global optoelectronics market, valued at around US$270 billion in 2005, is expected to be worth US$1 trillion by 2015. Asia, which acts as the world's manufacturing base for optoelectronics displays, storage, communications devices and components, accounts for more than 50% of the market, and will approach US$600 billion by 2015.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - June, 2006

Telematics Gaining Momentum in North Asia

Telematics - the integrated use of telecommunications and informatics in cars and trucks - in the Asia Pacific region has enjoyed considerable growth in recent years, thanks in part to the region's relatively high vehicle density compared with Europe and the US.

Read more

Financial Services - August, 2005

Payment Cards Slow to Catch On in Japan

Japanese consumers are the most sophisticated in Asia-Pacific, demanding high-quality products and good after-sales service regardless of price.

Read more

Telecommunications, Technology & Media - May, 2005

Overseas Indian Pay-TV Market Has Potential to Double

Numbering over 11 million people and 2.8 million households, the population of overseas South Asians around the world (ie. those living outside South Asia) equates to that of a small country. With average incomes many times those earned on the sub-continent, this is an audience whose potential was largely untapped during the 1990s, and it is now increasingly being targeted by Hindi, Bengali and Tamil television programmers such as STAR, Zee and Sony.

Read more

Telecommunication, Technology & Media - April, 2005

Barriers Slow Down Adoption of RFID Enabled Handsets

For years, mobile telecom operators in Asia have been exploring the concept of 'mobile wallets'. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled stored-value handsets that could bring them a new revenue stream, particularly in more mature markets where new subscriber growth is tailing off.

Read more

Financial Services - April, 2005

Integration of RFID with Credit Cards Shows Promise

The contactless payment card market in Asia is projected to exceed US$3 billion by 2009. Eager to tap into this potential are credit card companies, with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) pilot tests being carried out by American Express, Mastercard and Visa in Malaysia, Japan and Singapore.

Read more