Japan 2012: Rising to the Challenge
Ten months after its devastating earthquake and tsunami, Japan is moving ahead, grateful for the world’s support and eager to show its resilience through a revitalized economy and strong sense of purpose. CEOs from some of Japan’s leading companies share their insights, strategies and innovations.
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New York State, Transformed
Economy Gains Momentum with
Growth Agenda
There is a fundamental transformation taking place in New York State’s government and its economy. Businesses looking to invest in the state are finding fiscal discipline, revamped business policies and a sensible, streamlined economic development environment.
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Thailand
Kingdom of Promise
If there’s one thing observers of the Thai economy should know by now, it’s this: never count Thailand out. Despite a brief period of political unrest in spring last year, the Kingdom’s robust economy, led by a booming export sector, grew an astounding 7.8% in 2010, the fastest rate since 1995.
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Querétaro, Mexico
Small State, Big Business
Nestled in Mexico’s heartland, Querétaro may be one of the country’s smallest states, but it possesses enormously varied landscapes, great universities and a reputation as one of the safest places in Mexico.
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Morocco
Staying One Step Ahead
Morocco will hold early parliamentary elections on November 25. This will be the latest step in the constitutional reform process announced by King Mohammed VI this past March. Although this North African nation of 32 million had a calmer start to 2011 than some of its peers, the Arab Spring did not pass it by completely. Click to download.
SADC
South African Development Community
As the Southern African Development Community (SADC) approaches its 30th anniversary in 2012, the community’s 15 members are stepping up their efforts to achieve greater economic cooperation and integration. Click to download.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Both a traditionalist and a reformer, HRH King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud embodies the popular Islamic values most Saudis want to preserve and the change most hope to see. These have been evident in the stability, consensus-building and gradual political, economic and social change that have characterized the first six years of his reign. Download the full article here.
The United Arab Emirates
As the United Arab Emirates marked its 40th National Day on December 2, 2011, there was much to celebrate. In the previous four decades, the country successfully leveraged its natural, geographic and human resources to utterly transform itself. Download the full article here.
Singapore
At the Heart of the Action
The final weekend in September found Singapore alive with international jetsetters eager to watch the Formula 1 races. While most were there for the fun, it was clearly all work for the luxury brands, businesses and government agencies hosting the event.
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Hong Kong
Gaining Considerable
Momentum in the MICE Industry
by Gregory Curley
A growing number of businesses today are employing new measures to motivate
staff and improve productivity. Despite remarkable digital and technological advancements, the use of off-site work environments encourages human interaction and face-to-face encounters.
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China’s Hot Inland Hubs For International Business
by Michael Roney
China is the world’s most compelling marketplace, with a red-hot economy and 2010 bilateral trade with the United States totaling $457 billion. Read the full article here.
Malaysia
Transforming the Landscape
Dato' Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak was appointed as Malaysia's sixth Prime Minister on April 3, 2009. He is the eldest son of Malaysia's second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein. Read the full article here.
How Satisfied Are Your Customers?
Winning and maintaining customer loyalty is a constant challenge among businesses. Ironically, it often puts too much emphasis on what the company is giving rather than what the customer is getting. In reality, what one says is not always what the other hears. Read the full article here.
The Rise of Medical Travel
Surging Demand Has Prompted Further Investment
in Asia's Healthcare Infrastructure
By Gregory Curley
The world of healthcare has grown exponentially over the last decade. Skyrocketing costs and limited access to health insurance have left large numbers of people without quality medical services. Read the full article here.
Kurdistan
A Growth Market
Investors have pumped billions of dollars into the economy, including the oil sector and education system. As a semiautonomous region of Iraq, Kurdistan has attracted economic investments worth more than $14 billion over the past five years. Read the full article here.
Qatar National Development Strategy: Qatar's Enterprising Spirit
These are exciting times for Qatar, the Arabian Gulf nation of 1.7 million people that was selected to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The country has pledged US$60 billion in infrastructure development for the World Cup—including a metro, nine new and two renovated stadiums and more than 60,000 hotel rooms. Read the full article here.
Dubai Chamber
The Message Is Clear—Dubai Is Back
The message from the Dubai Chamber couldn't be clearer: Dubai is back—back to double-digit growth in key sectors of economic activity, and back to a focus on its numerous advantages in infrastructure and business. Read the full article here.
Tourism in Turkey
Unlimited Offerings, Unmatched Affordability
Turkey, a country of nearly 80 million, has been home to countless cultures and empires over the millennia. Due in large part to its rich past, today Turkey is one of the top ten countries in terms of tourist arrivals and revenues. Read the full article here.
Egypt
Sustained Economic Growth and Expanding Investment Opportunities
Two decades ago, the Egyptian government controlled 70% of the economy of this North African country, a legacy of the era of nationalization. Then, in 1990, a decision was made to fundamentally change the economy. Today, it is the private sector that controls 70% of the economy. Read the full article here.
Lebanon
Grasping a Golden Opportunity
Lebanese banks plan to open franchises in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. Despite the global banking crisis and its own political and social uncertainties, Lebanon’s economic, fiscal and legal systems continue to perform remarkably well. Read the full article here.
Romania
Road To Recovery and Eastern Promise
Investment in Romania’s economy is expected to pick up this year, now that the country is beginning to recover from its worst recession in 22 years. Read the full article here.
Nangang Industrial Zone Attracts the World’s Largest Chemical Companies
In a 200-square-kilometer patch of land jutting off the coast of the Bohai Sea, a center for China’s chemical industry is quietly luring the world’s largest chemical companies to the outskirts of Tianjin. Read the full article here.
TEDA Looks Into China’s Future
For the past 30 years, China’s special economic and development zones have been the best predictors of the country’s economic future. Heading into a new decade, China’s development goals and aspirations are clearly marked by the nine industries of the Tianjin Economic Development Area (TEDA). Read the full article here.
TEDA Sets the Pace for China’s Development Zones
Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area (TEDA) is one of the oldest economic zones in China. Through a series of environmentally and investment-friendly policies, the industrial zone has succeeded in boosting the city of Tianjin’s development and is a model for the country’s other, younger industrial zones. Read the full article here.
Kuwait Economic
Development Plans
Economic Reforms and a National Vision Herald a
New Era of Opportunity in Kuwait
There is little doubt that 2009–2010 will be remembered as a turning point in the history of Kuwait, a country rich in natural resources and entrepreneurial talent located on the Arabian Gulf. Read the full article here.
Trinidad & Tobago
Strength Through Diversity
The government of Trinidad and Tobago is seeking investment partners to share in its economic revival, develop alternative industries and explore new sources of energy. Read the full article here.
Singapore: Nonstop Action!
With the Formula 1 Grand Prix extravaganza just over, Singapore should be expecting a lull. But instead it continues to welcome a steady stream of visitors who come for various business and leisure activities for which the region has become widely known. Read the full article here.
Building Malaysia's Digital Future
A digital economy is essential for overall economic growth. Malaysia’s Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) is working hard to create a true digital economy. Read the full article here.
Virginia
A Commonwealth of Opportunity
By Susan H. Burnell
Virginia’s place in history is well established, and its place in the future of the world’s economy is assured by its support for innovation and its pro-business policies. Read the full article here.
Azerbaijan
Gateway to Eastern Promise
Azerbaijan, friend and energy supplier to the West, is seeking more investment and business partners. Azerbaijan’s status as a secure, pro-Western supplier of oil and natural gas—and as a commercial link to Central and Eastern Asia—will be further enhanced by a new international marine-trading and logistical center in Alat, to be developed over the next few months. Read the full article here.
Brazil
Rio’s Vitality Sets Pace
Investment soars in trade and development projects as Brazil’s capital prepares for 2016 Olympics and a surge in tourism. Read the full article here.
Malaysia
A Bold New Vision
After the stormy economic crisis of 2009, Malaysia is emerging stronger than before, thanks to help from the government’s economic stimulus package. The country is forecasting growth of 6% in 2010 after a contraction in 2009. Read the full article here.
Asian Real Estate in Full Momentum
While the European and North American economies are still clouded with fears of a prolonged recession, Asia has, since the global financial crisis began, embraced changes in the world economy by exploring its domestic economies and finding opportunities to move ahead. Read the full article here.
The Bright Future of Seoul
Asia’s New Meeting Place Welcomes You!
Seoul is the 2010 World Design Capital and will host some of the world’s most influential leaders at the G20 Summit this November. The New York Times listed Seoul third in the top 31 places to go in 2010. Read the full article here.
Dubai
World-Class Infrastructure and a Global Hub for Trade, Transport and Tourism
Vision is one thing; executing that vision is another. Dubai is a place that marries the two and, as a result, delivers a business, finance, trade, logistics and tourism experience unlike that of any other city. Read the full article here.
Egypt
An Attractive Magnet for International Capital
Despite the global economic crisis in 2009,
Egypt managed to sustain a 4.7% growth
in GDP – an enviable rate for most countries
– largely due to strong growth fundamentals,
effective market reforms and a
proactive government stimulus. Read the full article here.
MSC Malaysia
Driving Creativity, Innovation and Knowledge
Malaysia’s New Economic Model will see the country continue its climb up the technological value chain, creating unique opportunities for international investors. Read the full article here.

Seoul: A City Open for Business…and Fun
Business is a way of life in Seoul. The city serves as the headquarters for many major Korean conglomerates and multinational companies. Not surprisingly, Seoul is an ideal place to hold your next corporate meeting, offering high-tech and comfortable convention and meeting halls and a vibrant array of artistic, cultural and dining experiences.
Read the full article here.
Seoul Extends Invitation to Global Business
The efficient, professional services of the Seoul Convention
Bureau make it easier than ever to conduct business and
host corporate meetings in Seoul. Read the full article here.
Metro Hartford
A Leader in Healthcare
By James Battaglio and Carol Latter
At a time when healthcare reform and economic recovery are key issues for the U.S., the
Hartford Region is taking bold steps to build on its impressive healthcare assets and
provide state-of-the-art care to people throughout Connecticut and across the nation.Read the full article here.
Poland
International Investors Respond to
Stable Economy and Privatization Opportunities
With better economic stability than any other EU state last
year, Poland is gaining a significant level of interest and
investment from around the globe. Read the full article here.
Brazil
Creatively Coming Out Ahead
Brazil’s economy is surging upward, fueled by the vitality of its domestic market, newly discovered oil resources and major infrastructure development as the country prepares to host soccer’s 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games. Read the full article here.
Greater Rochester
New York’s Home for Smart Business
By Susan H. Burnell
Resilient, resourceful and top-ranked for its knowledge workforce, the Greater Rochester, New York Region is attracting and keeping smart people and smart businesses. Read the full article here.
Abu Dhabi
Economic Vision 2030
Abu Dhabi’s multidecade economic development and diversification plan impacts almost
every sector of the economy, from telecommunications and tourism to banking and business. Read the full article here.
Lebanon: Peace Profits II
Lebanon is achieving amazing growth rates and fighting to regain its
reputation as the Switzerland of the Middle East. Read the full article here.
Qatar: National Vision 2030
The small, gas-rich State of Qatar has embarked on an ambitious national journey of human
development and sustainable economic diversification that seeks a secure future for all its
people, built on human capital rather than its finite hydrocarbon resources. Read the full article here.
Barbados
Island of Opportunity
The Caribbean nation is looking to widen its reach internationally to boost its tourism, investment and trading prospects. Read the full article here.
British Columbia
A Natural Fit for Business
By Susan H. Burnell
As the first fanfare sounds in Vancouver’s BC Place Stadium for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the province of British Columbia heralds its accomplishments in the global business arena. Read the full article here.
Higher Education in Canada
Welcoming the World
Canada clearly signaled its determination to strengthen its links with Asia when Prime Minister Stephen Harper made high-profile visits to both China and India last December. Read the full article here.
Seoul:
World Design Capital 2010
Since Seoul has been designated the World Design Capital 2010, many have begun to turn their attention to
this amazing city, which is joining Paris and Milan as a globally recognized center of design. Read the full article here.
Soaring to New Heights:
Songdo, Yeongjong And Cheongna Of IFEZ
By Mee-Hyoe Koo
Located on the northwest coast of Korea, the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) is about one-third the size of Seoul and is divided into three distinct regions: Songdo, Yeongjong and Cheongna. Read the full article here.
Taiwan:
A Biking Paradise in Asia
With the winds of LOHAS (lifestyles of health and sustainability) blowing strong, the green way to travel—by bike—has become a prevailing trend around the globe and is getting hot in Taiwan. Read the full article here.
Puerto Rico:
Back To Business
Tough budgetary measures, investment incentives and cuts in red tape are jump starting the
economy and encouraging public-private partnerships in a host of development projects. Read the full article here.
West Virginia
Open for Business
By Susan H. Burnell
Positive changes stack up to sizable business advantages in the Mountain State. Growth-minded companies are taking notice, with investments of more than $9 billion in West Virginia since 2005. Read the full article here.
Seoul
The Infinite Offerings of a Modern Culture
Seoul is a multifaceted metropolis abundant with enticing attractions. Many tourists come to discover the city’s legendary history, yet more are attracted to the thriving culture that is reshaping this paradigm of a modern global center. Read the full article here.
IFEZ Strives to Become the Hub of Northeast Asian Business
by Mee-Hyoe Koo
The Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) is increasingly gaining recognition worldwide for its recent developments and positive future prospects as the emerging hub for businesses and logistics in Northeast Asia. Read the full article here.
Europe’s Masters
Studying for a master’s degree in Europe offers students a global outlook.
The master’s programs of business, industry and science education in Europe are offering increasingly sharp competition to their American rivals. Read the full article here.
Malaysia:
A Safe Harbor in the Storm
Although signs of a global recovery are growing, the world economy is not out of the woods yet. Malaysia has through this turbulent period been a relatively safe harbor in the storm. This resilience can be accounted for by several factors, one of which being that the country has learned from the Asian financial crisis of a decade ago. Read the full article here.
Seoul
The City of Infinite Discoveries
Seoul is a dynamic metropolis in which past and present intertwine-and it is fast becoming one of the world’s hottest tourist spots. Read the full article here.
All Eyes on Seoul
World Design Capital 2010
by Winnie Lam
Seoul has been designated as the World Design Capital (WDC) 2010, a prestigious title bestowed on one city biennially by the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID). Read the full article here.
Asian Real Estate
Awaken to Endless Possibilities
by Winnie Lam
Asia has been the growth engine of the world over the last few decades.Though it was unavoidably affected by the financial maelstrom that began two years ago, Asia has, thankfully, been relatively protected from the worst of the storm. Read the full article here.
Dominican Republic:
New Times, New Opportunities
The U.S. believes that links with the Dominican Republic can help widen investment and trade in the region.
by Michael Knipe
As the country with the strongest economy and second-largest population in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has become increasingly important to the U.S.
Read the full article here.
Far Eastern Group:
Celebrating 60 Years of
Far-Reaching Success
Year 2009 marks the 60th anniversary of Far Eastern Group (FEG), a major diversified business conglomerate headquartered in Taipei that has extended its business reach throughout Taiwan and China. With its roots in textiles, the Group has branched out into ten different industries with enormous success in each. Read the full article here.
The Global Innovation Machine:
Fueling New Growth in
Tough Times
Is your business ready for the opportunities created by new global economic realities?
In Perthshire, Scotland, against the majestic backdrop of the historic Gleneagles® Hotel and its challenging golf courses, 176 government and industry leaders gathered at the Forbes CEO Forum to address historic
economic challenges and the reshaped
landscape of opportunity ahead. Read the
full article here.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Industrial Infrastructure and Attracting Foreign Investment
Today, Saudi Arabia is known for its enormous reserves of oil and gas, but an export-led economic diversification effort will soon help the Kingdom become a significant global producer of value-added industrial components and manufacturing inputs — from aluminum and fertilizer to high-tech fiber-optic cables. Read the full article here.
Northern Virginia
Innovating Technology's Future
Northern Virginia is Innovation Central. Its healthy mix of technology, business, universities, research, green initiatives and proximity to the federal government keep it rock-steady in any economic conditions. Read the full article here.
Ahead of the Game Today's Dubai
Confidence is the keyword
Dubai has always been a city determined to create its own future through forwardlooking investments in "hard" and "soft" infrastructure that attract businesses from across the globe. Read the full article here.
Brazil: Writing the next chapter
Already set to host the FIFA World Cup soccer contest in 2014, this booming South American giant is a favorite to stage a future Olympic Games. Read the full article here.
Metro Hartford:
Where Talent Thrives
by Steve Higgins
The Hartford Region welcomes companies from around the globe to experience a genuine competitive advantage: the most productive labor force in the world. Read the full article here.
Poland: Facing the Crisis
by Adrian Erlinger
The current administration has a stimulus plan in place to spur innovation and is taking new steps to deregulate business and slash red tape. Read the full article here.
Newark:
Setting Bold New Standards
by Michael Roney
Cory A. Booker, Newark, New Jersey’s dynamic young mayor, took office after a sweeping election victory in 2006, setting a new standard in expectations for his city. Mayor Booker happens to be a lot like Newark — smart and visionary, with a world-class platform of talent and tools to support success.
Read the full article here.
Mexico: Investment Goals
Latin America’s second-biggest economy is opening up an array of investment opportunities to boost its standing as a global hub, tourist hot spot and high-tech innovator. Mexico is making its greatest investment in 25 years in the national infrastructure to prepare for the eventual upturn in the global economy. Read the full article here.
Lebanon: Peace Profits
by Michael Knipe
Lebanon is once again showing its extraordinary powers of resilience. In the 32 months that have passed since the war between Hezbollah and Israel wrecked homes, the nation has entered a period of resurgence, focusing on the reconstruction of its infrastructure and economy. Read the full article here.
Abu Dhabi’s Urban Development
Plan
Focus on Abu Dhabi’s growth strategies and key developments
Abu Dhabi has embarked on a comprehensive and far-reaching economic diversification program that is set to transform this once quiet emirate into a global capital city with rich cultural offerings, a large industrial base and a world-class service sector in areas such as tourism, media,
finance, education and healthcare. Read the
full article here.
Quebec: Gateway to free trade
The Canadian province is fighting protectionism and championing the widening of trading links with the U.S. and the EU.
by Michael Knipe
With free markets struggling to overcome the global economic recession, Quebec is intent on playing an instrumental role in developing
greater trade ties between North America and
Europe. Read the full article here.
Kurdistan: Seeing is believing
Once the breadbasket of Iraq, Kurdistan is emerging as a vibrant business force in the Middle East recovery process as it seeks investment to rebuild its economy.
The successful staging of provincial elections in Iraq in January has provided a further boost to the economic prospects of Kurdistan, the semi-autonomous region in northeastern Iraq. Read the full article here.
Brazil: Confidence is the keyword
Despite the global economic gloom, this Latin American giant is enjoying growing prosperity,
tax cuts and increased productivity.
Brazil, land of the samba, Sugar Loaf Mountain and Copacabana beach, is also
distinguishing itself in the midst of the worldwide financial crisis by the resilience
of its economic performance. Read the full
article here.
Portugal: Europe's West Coast
Portuguese companies establish global brands and set the pace for sustainability.
by Michael Knipe
Sustainability is the buzzword in Portugal. As the global recession takes hold, the business community and government intend to sustain the country's slow but sure economic development. Read the full article here.
Qatar: Investing In The Future
Qatar is experiencing tremendous social, political and economic growth. Huge energy reserves have catapulted this Gulf state into one of the world's leading economies and transformed the physical landscape of the country. Read the full article here.
Cabinda:
The Driving Force of Angola
Buoyed by the success in September of Angola's first national elections in 16 years, Cabinda, the country's wealthiest province in terms of mineral resources, is intent on exploiting its development potential to the full. Read the full article here.
Philadelphia:
A New Day. A New Way.
by Susan H. Burnell
Philadelphia, a city rich in history and accomplishment, is focused clearly on new and history-making goals. With bold leadership and vision, emphasis on high-performing government and strong partnerships, Philadelphia is celebrating a new day and a new way of doing business. Read the full article here.
Ohio: The State of Perfect Balance
by Timothy R. Gaffney
Produced in partnership with the Ohio Department of Development, this special section takes a close look at all the unique opportunities available to those looking to work, play or live in the Buckeye State. Read the full article here.
Vital and Dynamic Trucking Industry
Plots Road to Sustainable Future
by John D. Schulz
With more than 500,000 interstate trucking companies in the United States, the trucking industry is the engine behind the U.S. economy and is currently seeking ways to combat global climate by reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Read the full article here.
Corporate Relocation
Finding Gems Amid Current Trends
by Susan Burnell
This special section addresses the strategies growth-minded companies are employing for moving or expanding their workforce in today’s challenging business climate. Read the full article here.
Queensland: Australia’s
Strongest Economy
Queensland continues to impress as a diversified, growing economy.
by Justine Costigan
Queensland is well known for its nearly 7,000 kilometers of stunning coastline and its agricultural and minerals production, but the State's export industries are also becoming more recognized on the world stage. Read the full article here.
Winning Mind at Tough Times
Underpinned by its innovative business operation and full portfolio of gaming products, Melco Crown Entertainment (MPEL) remains strong amid a global economic downturn and new government measures that have grayed Macau’s overall gaming sentiment. Read the full article here.
Malaysia Prepares for
Global Success
Halfway through its first century of independence, Malaysia also finds itself more than halfway toward realizing the Ninth Malaysia Plan economic blueprint and its Vision 2020 target to be a first-world economy. The country has reached a critical juncture – it has amassed enough momentum to make a quantum leap up the global value chain. Read the full article here.
Singapore:
Raising the Game
As it plays to be a global city, Singapore has put together a winning hand.
In this special section, learn why the “Lion City” is on track to becoming one of the world’s greatest cities for business and life. Read the full article here.
Songdo IBD
A new international city where superlatives abound.
A totally new city, Songdo International Business District (IBD), is poised to become the gateway to the exploding markets of Northeast Asia while setting new standards in quality of life, commercial opportunities and environmental sustainability. Read the full article here.
The New-Generation
Leisure & Entertainment Titan
Under the careful direction of 31-year-old Lawrence Ho, chairman and chief executive officer of Melco Group, in less than four years’ time Melco has been completely revitalized and strategically positioned as a new-generation Asian conglomerate focused on leisure and entertainment. Read the full article here.
Albuquerque:
The Southwest American City With the Energy to Power the Future
In 2006, Forbes named Albuquerque the Best City in the U.S. for Business and Careers.
Infused with the creative spark and independent spirit that define the American Southwest, the city of Albuquerque is a place where big ideas are taking flight. Read the full article here.
Massachusetts:
Investing in Innovation
From the Berkshires to Boston, the coast to the countryside, we’ve got what you need to succeed.
by Susan H. Burnell
Brainpower attracts brainpower in Massachusetts. Now the Commonwealth is becoming an even smarter choice for expanding businesses. Read the full article here.
New Jersey:
Where The World Does Business
Private innovation combined with government initiatives is keeping New Jersey
at the forefront of the best places to conduct business.
by Brendan Coffey
From spearheading green energy efforts and stem cell research
to providing models for urban renewal and government-corporate teamwork, New Jersey continues to improve
its environment for businesses both large and
small. Read the full article here.