Aired August 2010

Located at the heart of central and east Africa, Uganda is situated in a region that includes some of Africa’s most economically important countries. With a key position in this strategic location, Uganda today has great potential to become the key investment and business hub in the east African region.

Uganda has consistently attracted people from all over the world. Apart from its open, friendly and hospitable population, other attractions include security, great weather and a history of religious tolerance.

Though landlocked and much smaller than its neighbors, Uganda is well on its way to becoming a regional hub as it borders powerhouses like Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, as well as Rwanda. In addition, all goods going to southern Sudan pass through Uganda, poising it to become a ready hub as borders go down and markets build up in future.

The country today offers a number of advantages for interested investors – at top of the list is an open market economy that allows free repatriation of profits. One of the most economically liberal countries in Africa, a 2003 survey conducted by national agencies indicated that the government’s economic policies had successfully led to a growth in private sector enterprises and investments over the years. In 2006, the country enjoyed a 5% growth rate, and potential investment opportunities in the country are unlimited. Currently, the government is keen to promote private-sector diversification in all industries.

The country’s current developing economy is the result of one man’s vision – His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. In power since 1986, he has been lauded by the West as part of a new generation of African leaders.

The country is a member of several regional organisations, including the East African Cooperation and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern African States (COMESA). These agreements, together with many other advantages, make Uganda a very attractive investment destination

The country today also has one of the fastest growing populations in the world. Nearly half the population is under 16, and one of the challenges currently facing the country is that of providing gainful employment to its population. It is hoped that future investments into the country would help stave what could potentially be a massive brain drain.

While Uganda is already a major energy producer in East Africa thanks to its hydropower stations, it is still attempting to become self-sufficient in the energy sector. The third largest economy in East Africa, Uganda struck commercial hydrocarbon deposits in the Lake Albert Basin and reserves in 2006. With estimates at 2 billion barrels, there has been a surge in foreign investor interest in the budding petroleum sector. The government’s decision to expedite creation of domestic petroleum capacity further fuels investor interest in the country.
But the government is determined to manage its energy sector in a responsible way

The government looks at these new discoveries as an opportunity to generate more jobs, and provide training for Ugandan people.

International energy producers are competing for assets in Africa as traditional fields go into decline, and nations from Venezuela to Russia curb access to their resources. And on the African continent, Uganda is viewed as an attractive zone.

Four international oil exploration companies have been granted Product Sharing Agreements in the country, and are already on the ground in Uganda where 800 million barrels of oil have been confirmed, with an estimated total value of $50 billion.

Prospecting has started in or near Uganda’s Western Rift Valley where surface oil seeps have occurred. In June 2006 discoveries at three fields were announced which have combined reserves of 100 to 300 million barrels. This is a significant find, but modest compared to the known reserves of Nigeria and Angola. 30 million barrels are ready for extraction this year, which would result in an estimated 12,000 barrels a day. The building of a refinery to provide some national capacity to process the extracted oil is also under way.

Tullow Oil, by far the largest oil company in Uganda, refers to the country as the “jewel” in Tullow’s crown. Tullow owns half of blocks 1 and 3A in Uganda and also owns block 2 outright.

In a recent development, the company has begun looking into supplying crude oil to power plants in Uganda in a few months – a move the government hopes will help cut power tariffs, as well as minimise crude and gas flaring in oil fields so as to limit the environmental impact of petroleum exploration and production activity.

The oil production prospect is attracting a broader international investors’ interest.
One of the potential partners of Tullow in the Product Sharing Agreement is TOTAL.

In addition, China, the world’s second-largest energy consumer, is seeking assets in Africa to secure fuel for its booming economy. The Chinese National Offshore Oil Company is thus another strong player in the exploration or “upstream” process.

Other oil companies in the country include Neptune petroleum, and Dominion. One of the challenges the companies are facing is managing the expectations of the people, since oil is new to Uganda,

Another important area for both the government and the private sector companies are CSR projects or what they can give back to the society in the area they are operating in.

“Downstream” is where the various energy products reach customers, and these include petrol stations who are in a good position to partner with foreign investors coming in to the country. In 2008, it was estimated that Uganda consumed about 13,000 barrels of oil a day, and spent 400 US dollars annually on petroleum imports.

Uganda imports all its petroleum products – there is currently no production in the country, but local production is expected to begin soon. Imports come directly through Kenya and Tanzania via trucks.

Consumption, largely based in transportation, rose rapidly in the 1990s; rising by an average of 14% per year from 1993 to 1996, and at about 6% per year since 1997. The rapid rise in consumption is reflected in the growing number of vehicles in the country. Along with other parts of the Ugandan economy, the petroleum industry was privatised and liberalised in the 1990s which resulted in a sharp increase in prices and investment.

Another area of the energy sector that is drawing much foreign interest is that of the provision of reliable electricity, which is a key component to building a stable business environment in the country. Much of the hydroelectric potential of the country is still untapped. Recent discoveries and projects in different energy sectors have sparked the interest of many foreign investors from all over the globe.

One example of a major project in Uganda that is coming to fruition is the construction of a $750 million dam at Bujagali falls on the Nile river – the Bugagali Hydropower Dam in Jinga/Bugagali, about 80 kilometres from Kampala. Following 10 years of study and planning, the project is being assisted by the World Bank. It is a multinational hydro-power project, and is the biggest investment in sub-Saharan Africa. The dam will help supply more electricity to the regions, which currently have only 15% of penetration.

Uganda expects its electricity supply to grow by about 8% thanks to such hydro power stations.

Covering nearly 300,000 square kilometres, Uganda offers ample fertile land, regular rainfall and mineral deposits – all excellent and favorable conditions for a flourishing agrarian economy. Contributing nearly 40% to the country’s GDP, the agrarian economy in Uganda employs 80% of the labour force, and makes up 90% of export earnings, with nearly one-third of the country’s rich red soil under cultivation.
Agro-processing is a major opportunity for investment as it adds value to local produce through the canning and manufacturing process, making it even more suitable for export given its long shelf-life. And with licenses being granted to private exporters, there is indeed much interest in this field.

The massive sugar industries on 1960s are reviving, along with the large tea estates that have been neglected for a long time. Previously strict government controls on the coffee and cotton industry have been loosened, allowing farmers a wider choice of markets.
Livestock production in Uganda is another area in the agricultural sector that has continued to grow at a rate of nearly 5% yearly – a response to the increasing demand for milk and meat in the local market. In addition, with nearly 20% of its surface area covered by lakes, rivers and swamps, the country has a potential fish production of over 275,000 tons annually. Currently employing some 500,000 Ugandans, the industry offers great opportunities for well-organised and comprehensive investment.

Here is Asia Business Channel’s top 5 of the tourist activities you can’t possibly miss.
At number 5 we picked a relaxing boat ride on one of the many lakes in Uganda. Enjoy the various views of beaches, river mouths, forests, villages and wild life both on the water and on the shores.
Spectacular bunjee jumping above the river Nile is at number 4. Not only a challenge for daredevils, but also for those who want to experience the thrill of this extreme sport and the wonderful panorama before and during the jump.
Enjoy animal spotting in a beautiful nature setting. A visit to one of the many national parks makes it to number 3.
At number 2 is white water rafting on the river Nile. The really adventurous can enjoy up to class 5 rapids. Not for the faint-hearted.
And what is the top tourism attraction? Gorilla tracking. Experience an eye to eye meeting with our closest relatives in their natural habitat. You will never forget it.

Tourism is one of the most sensitive and difficult industries to develop, and with a spotted history like Uganda’s, success in the tourism industry was anything but instantaneous. However, the recently redeveloped infrastructure, thanks in part to the burgeoning energy sector and influx of foreign investors, is now having a knock-on effect on the tourism industry as the country is fast emerging as a premier tourist destination in Africa.

Tourism in Uganda today is an important generator of foreign exchange, high-end employment, and investment. There has been increased investment in tourism, particularly in travel accommodation and related facilities. This has enhanced tourists’ experiences of the country.

Uganda is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, with fantastic natural scenery. Due to this, most of the tourism opportunities in Uganda are focused on its diverse landscape and wildlife. Fondly referred to as “the Pearl of Africa”, Uganda offers nature lovers unspoiled scenic beauty from wide East African plains and expansive savannah grasslands, to rain forests and snow peaked mountains.

The country can be marketed as a new destination with tailor-made packages that are different from the mass tourism that other African countries have been offering. With its rich eco-tourism potential, Uganda is the ideal choice for tour operators targeting niche market areas such as bird watching, observing the gorillas and mountain trekking.

Visitors will find some of the region’s more peaceful national parks, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population and a wide variety of bird species and wild range. One of the so far less known touristic places in Uganda is the Budongo forest. It is one of the largest tropical forests in east Africa.. It has the highest concentration of chimpanzees in Uganda and in the region and it is one of the best places to see chimps on the African continent.

The country offers an exceptional opportunity for business in the heart of Africa. With a government keen on developing the economy to its full potential, interested investors can rest assured that they will receive all the support they need to ensure that their ventures into this East African country will be fruitful.

Aired July 2010

Malaysia. Asia’s premier investment destination. A nation well on its way to achieving First World status by the year 2020, Malaysia’s economic and social transformation is staggering. Leveraging its strategic location and abundant natural resources to become a model to the world, Malaysia is on the fast-track to success.

Malaysia is located at the heart of Southeast Asia, on the busy land, air, and see corridor between Europe and Australasia. Peninsular Malaysia borders Thailand and Singapore, while East Malaysia in the island of Borneo neighbors Indonesia and the Sultanate of Brunei. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur.

The Malaysian economy has gone through tremendous changes over the last few decades, evolving from an agriculture-based economy to a knowledge-based one. Malaysia has a strong trade policy that emphasizes better integration with the global economy and is now a key trading player in the region. There is no better time for foreign investors to tap into this boom.

Malaysia’s current government has launched an ambitious plan for the country’s future, the One Malaysia program. This embodies the nation’s drive to excel in social development and to foster unity among Malaysians of all races.

The discovery of oil has been integral to Malaysia’s transformation into an Asian superpower. The government-owned corporation Petronas is vested with the country’s entire oil and gas resources and is ranked by Fortune as the 8th most profitable company in the world.

One of the leading players in the Malaysian oil and gas industry is Bumi Armada. They are the country’s largest owner and operator of offshore support vessels and an established player in the FPSO segment with two of the floating production storage and offloading vessels in Nigeria and a third one under conversion.

Many global companies have already established themselves in Malaysia, helped in a big part by the country’s world-class infrastructure and open business environment.

To achieve first world status over the next decade is no longer a dream, but an imminent reality Malaysians are looking forward to witness.

RAIL AND AIR INFRASTRUCTURE

Significant government and private sector investment have brought into Malaysia one of the most advanced infrastructures of any Asian developing nation. Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport plays a key role in the country’s economic development and has put infrastructure development as one of the priorities of the Ninth Malaysia Plan.

Malaysia’s main airport is Kuala Lumpur International Airport, also known as KLIA. Opened in June 1998, KLIA has since matured into a model airport, and is fast emerging as the gateway of choice for the region.

Kuala Lumpur is well-connected to the rest of Asia and the world through its flagship carrier, Malaysia Airlines, as well as Air Asia, one of the continent’s fastest-growing airline companies.

Malaysia has an extensive rail network that dates back to the British colonial era, when it was first built to transport tin. Today, the government-led company KTM Berhad controls the entire railway network in Peninsular Malaysia, consisting of two main lines and several branch lines.It is crucial for the government to have a fully integrated transport network.

Commuter trains are a heavily utilized mode of transportation by commuters working in Kuala Lumpur as the service is an alternative for road travel.

Malaysian trains and railways are currently being upgraded to become safer and more efficient, and at the same time having a lesser impact on the environment. Truly a source of pride for the Malaysian people.

ROAD AND LOGISTICS INFRASTRUCTURE

In Malaysia, your journey matters. With an exceptional road network, driving around Malaysia is easier and faster thanks to some world-class concessions. The North-South Expressway, built, maintained and operated by PLUS Expressways Berhad, is the longest expressway in Malaysia. The expressway links many major cities and towns in western Peninsular Malaysia, acting as the ‘backbone’ of the west coast of the peninsula, and provides a faster alternative to the old federal route, thus reducing traveling time between various towns and cities.

PLUS now serves around 1.3 million vehicles on its expressways every day, and the implementation of the latest technologies and the strict emphasis on safety, comfort and efficiency earned nothing but praise from its users.

Malaysia has also positioned itself as a leading international logistics hub. It is not surprising that both the government and the private sector are pushing for a stronger integration of global logistics. Malaysia is home to some of the continent’s most reputable transport and logistics companies.

Logistics have evolved into a new era where it is not just about the transportation of goods from one place to another, but one where technology and solutions are implemented into the logistics chain to satisfy customer demands.

While global trade volumes continue to decline due to the current economic downturn, Malaysia remains optimistic about the future.

INFRASTRUCTURE

In the last decade, Malaysia launched its National IT Agenda as part of a major strategy aimed at national development and nation building in preparation for the challenges in the IT era. The Malaysian government has recognized that ICT would serve as a foundation condition that would transform Malaysia from a production-based economy to a knowledge-based economy.

The local ICT players have taken note of the position that the Malaysian government has taken, and it has been pushing in a very aggressive manner to not just provide, but also to generate demand for ICT solutions.

One of the areas where private companies in Malaysia really excel on the global stage is in the area of social services and e-government. Malaysia created history as the first country in Southeast Asia to win the highest ICT recognition in the world – the United Nations World Summit Award. Innovation and creativity are in Malaysians’ blood.

E-government in Malaysia is well advanced, and it should be an integral component of a much broader mission to deliver the government’s transformation agenda. Malaysia acknowledges that there significant challenges in improving the economy, but it is also seeing positive change as Malaysia continues to transform into a knowledge-based economy focusing on innovation, value and high skills.

Aired June 2010

Botswana is a landlocked, mostly arid country bordered by South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia. While the country is about the size of France, two-thirds of the land is covered by the Kalahari Desert. The capital city, Gaborone, is home to a mixed ethnic society that comprises primarily of people from various African tribes, Europeans and Indians. Although Setswana is the national language and is widely spoken in the country, English is the official language used at higher levels and for business.
And Botswana offers a good environment to live and work in.

Botswana’s economy is stable and well-managed with low rates of inflation. The country offers a stable workforce, good industrial relations and competitive labour costs. In addition, a good transport infrastructure and modern telecommunication system lend to the attractiveness of doing business in the country. Furthermore, the country enjoys a reputation as the least corrupt country in Africa with high transparency and a well-developed legal system.

Minerals, especially diamonds, have been the mainstay of the country’s economy since independence from the British in 1966. The country’s high rate of economic growth is due largely to this mining sector, which accounts for 90% of national foreign exchange earnings, and at nearly 40%, provides the single largest source of GDP as well as government revenues.

The government is keen to diversify the country’s economy, and to ease its current dependence on mining. Investment is particularly encouraged in the sectors of manufacturing, tourism, infrastructure, finance, and in building its “knowledge economy”.

To this effect, private sector development in the country is actively encouraged. An attractive tax system, abolished exchange controls, and a wide range of investment incentives are just some of the measures put in place by the government in its bid to promote economic growth.

Furthermore, there are no foreign exchange controls, and its citizens enjoy a low tax regime. Corporate tax is at 15% for manufacturing and finance companies, while all others are taxed at a comparatively low rate of 25%. In addition, products manufactured in Botswana can enter the United States and the European Union free of duty and quotas, thus immediately widening the potential market base beyond the shores of the African continent.

TRANSPORT AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Though sparsely populated, Botswana has managed to incorporate much of its interior into the national economy. There is a paved “inner circle” highway connecting all major towns and district capitals, and an all-weather Trans-Kalahari highway which connects the country to Walvis Bay in Namibia.

Further, the authorities in Botswana realize that a comprehensive and modern infrastructure needs to be developed and maintained in the country in order to continue upwards growth of the economy. To this effect, plans have been put in place at national level to have a positive impact on the overall growth of the country.

In order to further enhance the transportation system of the country, the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana has been established to act as a regulator of air transport services.
The new terminal building in the capital city Gaborone is one of the ongoing projects of CA and there are many more in the pipeline. The new terminal building will improve the passenger processing at Gaborone airport. A runway of about 4 km has the capacity to allow planes like Boeing 747 or equivalent aircraft to land. The current cargo terminal in the capital doesn’t have apron which links the cargo terminal with the runway and tax way. A new one is under construction now and it will allow to park of at least 2 aircrafts in front of the terminal building and to handle cargo.
In order to further develop the aviation sector, Botswana needs capital from the investors who can establish home based operators and expand their services, not only within Botswana but also regionally within the Sadec region.
Botswana ranks among the top four countries in the region in terms of telephone penetration. A fiber-optic telecommunications network has been completed in Botswana connecting all major population centers. There have also been concentrated efforts to provide rural communities with telephones and related services.

Botswana established a regulatory authority to be known as the Botswana Telecommunications Authority which will be responsible for regulatory oversight of broadcasting, internet, postal and telecommunications. The country’s vision is to make available affordable voice communications and access to internet to all in the country, regardless of their location.

Mobile phone penetration in the country is approaching 100%, which is more than twice the continent’s average. Three mobile operators – Mascom Wireless, Orange Botswana and BeMobile – cover most of the country.

Botswana has a relatively young IT industry with about 200 registered IT companies that still leaves room for potential development. A national fiber backbone supports a wide range of services, including ADSL, satellite internet and wireless technologies. Most areas in cities have wifi networks, as well as hotspots in shopping malls and café bars, and there are 22 commercial internet service providers in the country.

Media communications in the country is open. In addition to the government-owned newspaper and national radio network, there is an active and independent local press. Foreign publications are sold without restriction.

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

The Botswana economy is fast growing. Just imagine that since independence, the average annual growth was about 9% for the first three decades. The government has consistently maintained budget surpluses. The economy is focused on mining, but has been diversifying towards a lot of other sectors.

Botswana’s financial sector is relatively well developed, with an independent central bank and minimal government intervention. The government is involved in banking through state-owned financial institutions and a special financial incentives program that is aimed at increasing Botswana’s status as a financial centre. The country’s competitive banking system is already regarded as one of Africa’s most advanced.

Generally adhering to global standards in the transparency of financial policies and banking supervision, the financial sector provides ample access to credit for entrepreneurs. Credit is allocated on market terms, although the government provides subsidized loans.

Exchange controls were abolished, and with the resulting creation of new portfolio investment options, the Botswana Stock Exchange is steadily growing. Most important sectors here are finance, financial services and resources.
With significant natural resources and a market-oriented economy that encourages private enterprise, Botswana has Africa’s highest sovereign credit rating.
Foreign investment and management are welcomed in Botswana. A top priority has been to enhance business profitability and regional competitiveness with a more efficient investment code.
This milk processing factory is one successful example of foreign investment. It is the result of a joint enterprise of investors from Botswana and Zimbabwe. The company has the capacity to supply its range of UHT Long Life Milk to the domestic and export markets. It is the largest dairy factory in Botswana.
The overall freedom to establish and run a business is relatively well protected under Botswana’s regulatory environment. Obtaining a business license takes less than the world average of 218 days. The government has established a one-stop shop for investors, and the process for closing a business is easy and straightforward.
And there are a lot of others incentives for the investors. Probably the most attractive one is the low tax regime.
With its proven record of good economic governance, Botswana was ranked as Africa’s least corrupt country by Transparency International in 2009, and is consistently ranked by international organizations as among the freest economies in sub-Saharan Africa.

TOURISM

Often described as Africa’s fastest-growing city, Botswana’s capital Gaborone is a vibrant, colorful and bustling modern city. There are numerous busy shopping malls offering a full range of imported and locally produced goods, excellent restaurants, top international quality hotels, sports clubs and various night clubs. New buildings and suburbs sprout like mushrooms wherever there’s a block of land to fit them, resulting in a mix of low-cost housing, blocks of flats, shopping centers and industrial complexes. The western edge of the city is dominated by Kgale Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the city from the top.
But of course, the capital is not the only interesting place to visit for tourists. Botswana has a natural beauty which lies in its wilderness, wildlife and cultural diversity, located in various parts of the country. It will give its visitors a truly unique African experience.
The national parks and game reserves, like this Mokolodi reserve situated near the capital, are major tourist attractions. It is attracting travelers from all over the world, for both hunting and photo safaris. Not surprisingly, tourism plays a large role in the Botswana economy. It is creating more than 20.000 jobs, and provides some 12% of the GDP.

With its myriad natural open spaces and wildlife nature reserves, Botswana is the perfect location for the further development of eco-tourism, which will ensure that tourism in Botswana while economically profitable will also be sustainable.
Game viewing in Botswana is usually at its best during the dry season – in winter, from May to August, and in the hot springtime months of September and October, when the animals are concentrating near rivers, pools and waterholes.

The sight of the slowly moving and elegant giraffes is only one marvel during a visit to one of the many nature parks in Botswana. With some luck, brown hyenas, warthogs, cheetahs, leopards and lions can be spotted, too.

Besides the traditional safaris, Botswana is also popular for fishing safaris, and visitors can make their way to different natural mineral spas. Not to forget the magnificent golf courses, like this Pakhalane Golf Estate, and Gaborone Golf Club.
All tourist destinations are connected to the capital by air and bus transportation.

Visitors to Gaborone now have an excellent choice of craft shops to choose from. Botswana Craft, which specializes in crafts from Botswana, has several outlets in the city. They offer handmade wooden furniture, local pottery and jewelry.

For those interested in a more thorough cultural insight, the outstanding National Museum houses important collections of archaeological artifacts and natural history exhibits. The outside compound shows different examples of transportation, from Ox carts to steam locomotives. The museum is also a research institution, working to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Botswana.

Last but not least, tourists can enjoy the bustling entertainment premises in Gaborone and other big cities. The capital counts four casinos, of which the biggest is Gaborone Sun. They offer a gaming experience in a modern up market casino environment.

Despite continued challenges such as small market size and a landlocked location, Botswana, already one of Africa’s wealthiest nations with a thriving economy based on diamond mining and tourism, remains one of the best investment opportunities in the developing world.

A regional leader in economic reform, competitiveness and flexibility are promoted by a sensible business regulatory environment, openness to foreign investment and trade, as well as relatively flexible employment regulations.

Regulatory reform has turned the country into one of the most liberalized telecommunications markets in the region, while its political stability and fiscal freedom will continue to attract foreign direct investment.

In case of any queries, feel free to contact them: info@asiabusinesschannel.tv

In case of any queries, feel free to contact them: info@asiabusinesschannel.tv

In case of any queries, feel free to contact them: info@asiabusinesschannel.tv

In case of any queries, feel free to contact them: info@asiabusinesschannel.tv

Aired April 2010

A globally competitive environment for investors, the Philippines is Asia’s new business hotspot. Long overshadowed by its neighbors in terms of economic growth and socio-political development, Asia’s sleeping tiger is slowly waking up.

A cluster of over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is the second largest archipelago in the world. It defies geographic convention, divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The capital city is Metro Manila.

Its strategic location makes it a critical entry point to the 500 million people in the Southeast Asian market. The Philippines offers vast trade opportunities and is an ideal base for business.

Amidst its problems, the Philippines is a survivor. Culturally cast away from the rest of Asia through its past links with Spain and the United States, it is a nation that is unique and carefree. It is also home to the friendliest and happiest people in Asia. Filipinos are proud of what is quite possibly the continent’s only true democracy.

The government’s main thrust of making Philippines a competitive country in the global environment through various investments has been successful, and there is no better time to know the Philippine advantage.

The Philippine economy grew in 2009, supported by the continued expansion in overseas workers’ remittances, a resilient business process outsourcing industry, and fiscal stimulus efforts. While GDP growth was was stunted by the global financial crisis and weather-related loss of agricultural output, the future looks bright.

INDUSTRY

Manila. Manic, chaotic, and alive. A passion play and an urban jungle in overdrive mode. This is where over 12 million Filipinos gravitate to, and the heart and soul of a nation in flux.

For businessmen and investors, Manila is a corporate nirvana. The business district of Makati rivals the business districts of Singapore and Hong Kong in its capitalist buzz. It is where many of the country’s financial companies and multinational corporations are based, as well as some of the best shopping and nightlife in all of Asia.

The Philippines is one of the most aggressive players in targeting the outsourcing markets of the USA, Europe and neighboring Asian countries. The Philippines has rapidly emerged as India’s main rival in the business-process outsourcing, or BPO. Its positive track record in back office services , and a fluency in the English language, has unleashed the nation’s best-kept secret: it’s human capital.

The Filipino workforce has become one of the country’s biggest exports, a new breed of world-class service professionals. All over the world, from the United Arab Emirates to Hong Kong, Filipinos are in demand. It is Filipinos’ intrinsic nature to care for their families and provide for them even if they are thousands of miles away.

The money Overseas Filipino workers send back home through remittances are crucial to the economic growth of the country.

As Filipino workers become global, so do Filipino companies. More than ever, strong private enterprises are making a name abroad, bringing into light the strong work ethic and entrepreneurial expertise that the country is well-known for.

7,107 islands. 7,107 opportunities for investment. The Philippines is rich in natural resources, and projects have been underway for decades in the privatization of state-owned industries, particularly in the energy sector.

The growth of the energy sector has mirrored the solid performance of the economy, and 2010 promises to be a banner year for the privatization of the country’s remaining generation assets, with hydro-electric power holding the key.

TOURISM

One of the Philippines’ stumbling blocks in its road to development in a road and communications infrastructure highly in need of modernization. But with the help of the private sector, things are slowly changing.

The Philippines welcomes tourists from all over the world coming for their medical and leisure needs. The Philippines has been growing as a tourist destination of choice for health and vacation because of its world class physicians, modern technology, and a uniquely Filipino brand of caring and compassion at great values for money at a fraction of the cost in developed countries.

Look at the beautiful Filipino people and you will see the physical traces of its Asian, American and Latin heritage. While most medical specialties address physical health, cosmetic surgery is unique in the way it uses physical improvement to benefit psychological health, and is a booming industry in the country.

The Philippines is now one of Southeast Asia’s leaders in cosmetic surgery, hastened by advances in medical technology and a sensitivity to the needs of Asian clients.

Filipinos are some of the happiest people on earth. How can a country with extreme poverty and prone to daily struggle produce such optimistic people? The secret lies in Latinasian idea that all things shall pass, and that life should be lived. And the concept of family as the basic unit of society is evident everywhere, which is why shopping malls and theme parks are always full of them.

Adventure tourism is also on the rise. For something beyond the ordinary, the Philippines doesn’t disappoint.

And if it’s resorts you are after, then look no further than the island of Boracay, the nation’s most famous beach island and magnet for travelers, where international hotel chains are changing the landscape and raising the bar of standards in luxury tourism.

World of Wonders. This is the slogan for the Department of Tourism.

A strategic location in Asia. Quality human resources. Reliable business infrastructure support. And a liberal economy open to foreign investment. This is the Philippine advantage.

Aired March 2010

Al-Salaam Alaykum. Welcome to the United Arab Emirates.

At first sight, the UAE seems like a contradictory destination, an Islamic state where traditional Arab lifestyles continue alongside a very frantic version of Western consumerism. But it is this balance that is the secret to its success. It is also a very safe destination in the Middle East. This nation is leading the way for the future of Arabia.

One of the most highly industrialized economies in the world, the United Arab Emirates lies in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, and shares land borders with Saudi Arabia and Oman. It is a federation of seven neighboring emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, Umm al-Qaiwan, Ras al-Khaimah, and Fujairah.

The leadership of the United Arab Emirates is both hereditary and federal. The presidency and premiership follows the hereditary line of the Al Nahyan clan in Abu Dhabi, and the Al Maktoum clan in Dubai.

The UAE has the world’s third-largest reserves of oil, with Abu Dhabi alone having 9% of the global supply. Not surprisingly, this braces the national economy, and is the leading contributor to the GDP. It is said that at current levels of production, oil reserves will last for only another century and the UAE is looking at diversifying its industries. And while they have not been spared by the current global economic crisis, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai have become models to the world of sound, sustainable growth.

TOURISM

Through its development of healthy tourism, trade, manufacturing, construction and energy sectors, the United Arab Emirates has become the most modern nation in the Middle East. But today is a very challenging time for the UAE, as it is in the rest of the world, and more than ever, both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are working hand in hand to adapt to a challenging global economy.

The UAE attracts people from more than 200 nationalities, drawn to the nation’s promises of security and balanced living.

Glitzy and over the top, Dubai lives for attention. On the surface it is materialistic and only functions to treat every guest like a VIP, but this is the whole idea. One only needs to see the hotels in Dubai to know why tourists from all over the world are willing to pay a premium. Dubai’s hotels are not cheap, but you do get a lot of value. More than places to rest your head, they are exercises in luxury and relaxation, and are destinations in themselves.

Tourism in Dubai has slowed down due to the current economic crisis, but hotels are still seeing good business even amidst serious competition.

The United Arab Emirates is a rapidly diversifying society that has successfully integrated its core values and heritage into its ambitious economic agenda. Whether you are coming for business or tourism, the UAE welcomes the world.

Aired March 2010

Over the last 7 centuries, the area that is today known as the Arab Republic of Egypt, has continuously played a significant role in global affairs. From the Pharonic to Coptic, Byzantine, Roman and Islamic ages, some of the most advanced civilisations in history have called this region home. The temples of Luxor, the tombs of Aswan and the pyramids of Giza, to name but a few of its more famous historical sites, are impressive reminders of the country’s heritage.

Located in the northeast corner of Africa in the modern world, Egypt today is bordered by Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and Israel, the Palestinian Territories and Jordan to the northeast. The country also boasts an extensive coastline, with the Mediterranean Sea to the north, and the Red Sea to the east. This excellent geographic location has enabled Egypt to play a central role not only within the Arab world, but also internationally, acting as a link between Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

This central position has resulted in a culturally and economically diverse nation. With a population of about 75 million people, Egypt is today the mostly densely populated nation on the African continent, and is a bustling country with the second largest economy in the Arab world. This in itself is a key attraction to potential investors.

Apart from its excellent geographical location and sheer size of population, Egypt also offers potential investors an added incentive by way of trade agreements.

With one of the most proactive governments in the Arab world, Egypt has faced the challenges of globalisation head-on by responding directly to the needs of its growing population. By investing in infrastructure and technology upgrades, and reducing the amount of bureaucracy while increasing government transparency, the country has developed a liberal market-based economy driven by the private sector.

In 2004, the Egyptian government embarked on a far-reaching programme of economic liberalisation which has resulted in a strong and continued growth, as well as a record level of foreign investment till the recent global economic crisis.

With a view to building a modern Egypt that can boast a flexible administration, as well as a productive economy that is capable of meeting successive international challenges, national authorities have managed to harmoniously balance production, export and import. An ambitious privatisation programme in the 1990s has led to dramatic improvements in the manufacturing sector.

Furthermore, if figures that were in place before the recent economic crisis are an indication, the number of international companies that have chosen to base their operations in Egypt looks set to rise.

FINANCE

The finance sector in the country further serves to raise investor confidence. Restructured and consolidated over the past years, Egypt’s financial system is now transparent and solid enough to provide the country with the credit it needs to grow. In fact, the IMF has lauded Egypt’s strong balance of payments and foreign reserve positions. It is estimated that when businesses are once again ready to expand, investor confidence in Egypt will be high.

By already putting in place the necessary measures to create an economy which is business-friendly, Egypt looks set to continue to provide an environment which encourages growth and foreign investment.

The energy industry is one of the key sectors and contributors to the growth of Egypt’s economy. The energy infrastructure for oil, gas and electricity are adequate and cover most of the populated areas in the country. It also includes facilities to assist the export of energy to other countries.

With much development potential still to be found in the energy sector, Egypt is paying special attention to the industry as an engine for national development. To this effect, the industry has slowly been privatising over the years, and several companies have been formed that meet with international standards.

Formed in 1975 as a joint-stock company, PETROJET is capable of competing with foreign contractors in the industry. Over the last 30 years, the company has made considerable strides and is now the leading player in the execution of petroleum projects within the country. PETROJET has also managed to extend its presence into regional markets over the years, and is now focusing on further expanding its role in the international market. Having invested in high-calibre personnel and state-of-the-art technology, PETROJET has already developed an international reputation for quality commitment, and has received several international certificates and licenses in recognition of this.

ENERGY

ENPPI, established in 1978, provides fully-integrated engineering, procurement, construction supervision and project management services for the petroleum, petrochemicals, power and other related industries. Recognised as an engineering, EPC main contractor and management contractor, the company has a proven track record of accomplishments for both onshore and offshore projects. Applying state-of-the-art technology and know-how based on worldwide sources and standards, ENPPI has received several internationally-recognised certificates and continues to maintain its high status in the international engineering community.

Another successful Egyptian company in the energy field is SUMED. The company is involved in the efficient transportation of crude oil, as well as other relevant services, at competitive prices. SUMED guarantees a reliable, secure and economic route for crude oil movements from the Arab Gulf to refining centres in the West. In keeping with the latest international standards, SUMED has invested in modernising their technology and equipment used, while paying close attention to preserving the environment and maintaining safety standards.

Due to major recent discoveries, natural gas is likely to be the primary growth engine of Egypt’s energy sector for the foreseeable future. Egypt’s natural gas sector is expanding rapidly with production having increased over 30 percent in the last decade.

The Egyptian Natural Gas Company, or GASCO, was established in March 1997 to transmit, distribute and process natural gas within the country. The company is present at every point in the Egyptian gas chain and plays an important role in promoting the utilisation of gas domestically. A vital link between natural gas producers and consumers, GASCO serves a wide spectrum of industries and customers via the national gas grid, which is 16,450 kilometres long, making it the longest and largest gas distribution grid in Africa and the Middle East.

GASCO also has a leading role in gas processing and the recovery of gas valuable components such as LPG, ethane-propane mixture and commercial propane, which is then exported to the international market. In order to meet international standards and codes, GASCO pays close attention to its commitment to quality. In recognition of this, the company has been accredited with several internationally-recognised certificates over the years.

The importance of the successes achieved in Egypt’s energy sector over the past decade cannot be dismissed, but the sector will face some challenges in the future.

Despite the tough conditions, there still exist opportunities in the sector.

TOURISM

Tourism is one of the largest contributors to Egypt’s GDP. The industry is big business – it is one of the major driving forces of the country’s economy and the primary source of foreign earnings. Over the last 10 years, there has been a 100% increase in inbound tourism. While only a small percentage of this comes from Asia at present, authorities are upbeat about the future.

Egypt is an all-year destination, with sunshine 365 days a year, and attractions for tourists in every season. From attractive beaches in sunny coastal cities on the Red Sea including the likes of popular Taba, Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, to the historical cities of Cairo, Luxor and Aswan which are rich in the Pharonic tradition, the country is one of the most diverse in the Middle East North Africa region.

Egypt continues to attract tourists year after year despite the tension in neighbouring countries. It is considered an extremely safe and tourist-friendly destination, with Egyptians taking national pride in their hospitality and good nature.

Apart from leisure tourists, many business tourists also make a stop in Egypt’s capital city of Cairo. With the country’s location at the centre of the Arab world, Cairo is a convenient and preferred destination for regional business conferences. The city consistently plays host to many of the region’s public and private sector conferences and exhibitions, including many international events. In light of this business tourism that forms a substantial part of its industry, both the government and private sector have worked towards having in place a sound infrastructure in the country.

Over the last few years, there has also been much interest from foreigners to be able to own a home in Egypt. To this effect, the government has put in place legislations that allow for residential tourism.

Indeed, the plans in place for the tourism industry in Egypt point to a continued expansion of this highly lucrative industry.

Modern-day Egypt offers much to those who come to her shores – a well-established democracy, governing institutions that meet international standards, a sound financial and economic system, and a geographical location that is both strategic and advantageous. In addition, Egypt is well-connected to market demands, and presents a unique value proposition to investors. This distinctive blend of competitive strengths promises to make the country a choice location for global enterprises.