Bahrain has seen its economy expand through diversification efforts, with a focus on finance, industry and technology. Projects in infrastructure, digital transformation and tourism aim to drive growth and attract foreign investment. The kingdom is committed to sustainability, targeting a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035. The financial sector is a key contributor with innovation in financ
Saudi Arabia, the region’s largest economy, is progressing towards diversification under Vision 2030. The digital economy is a standout performer, contributing 14% of GDP, while government-led giga-projects open long-term opportunities across various sectors. Despite a dip in oil activities that reduced the current account surplus to 3.2% in 2023, tourism income surged by 38%, boosting the servi
Amid the backdrop of dynamic shifts in global trade patterns and technological advancement, Industry 4.0 and artificial intelligence (AI) are substantially reshaping manufacturing landscapes in emerging markets. Although challenges exist for full implementation, including infrastructure and skill gaps, rapid urbanisation and a burgeoning young workforce in these countries drive demand for automation…
Indonesia is undertaking a programme of industrial transformation in its drive to become a major regional centre for manufacturing and trade. Spearheaded by its Making Indonesia 4.0 strategy, a roadmap designed to adopt and integrate Industry 4.0 technologies into production processes, the government has also been pursuing initiatives in efforts to diversify its economy away from a reliance on raw…
Interview: Tommy Wattimena, CEO, Great Giant Foods To what extent are food production companies responsible for promoting healthy eating options and sustainable consumption habits? TOMMY WATTIMENA:In the current landscape of the Indonesian food industry, we are witnessing a diverse range of consumer trends that are influencing corporate strategies. These trends span from an increased…
Indonesia is undertaking a major industrial transformation with the goal of becoming a significant regional centre for manufacturing and trade. Central to this initiative is the Making Indonesia 4.0 strategy, which aims to integrate Industry 4.0 technologies into the country’s production processes. This strategy is part of a broader effort by the government to diversify the economy away from its…
Indonesia, a South-east Asian archipelago with over 17,000 islands, has a long history dating back millions of years, marked by the early presence of Austronesians and the spread of Islam, which became dominant by the 17th century. Currently, Indonesia is poised for significant economic growth under the incoming administration of Prabowo Subianto, which aims for 8% annual growth, targeting a top-f
Interview:Shane Eldstrom To what extent are consumer trends fuelling growth in Qatar’s luxury retail market? SHANE ELDSTROM: Growth in the luxury retail market is reflecting the desire for personalised experiences and sustainable, high-quality products. Qatar’s evolving demographics, characterised by a young and affluent population and a large expatriate community, provide an ideal environment…
Building on the momentum seen in the e-commerce space during the Covid-19 pandemic, the buy now/ pay later (BNPL) model is one of the fastest-growing segments in consumer finance, particularly in emerging markets. BNPL providers offer point-of-sale loans that consumers can repay in instalments over the course of weeks or even months. Charging little to no interest, these microcredit providers make…
Through Qatar National Vision 2030, Qatar has looked to diversify its economy away from oil and gas and develop new income streams, particularly in the service sector. This diversification effort culminated in the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which demonstrated Qatar’s advancements in infrastructure and its ability to organise global events. At the same time, it catalysed growth in the retail…
