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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 service trade surplus to a record high. The Kingdom’s economy is forecast to grow by 4.6% in 2025. Saudi Arabia offers a dynamic business environment, attracting both large corporations working with government entities and smaller companies leveraging private sector activity. Key sectors like banking, energy and construction are thriving, driven by strategic investment and reforms.
Many have hailed Myanmar’s recent economic, political and social restructuring as ground breaking, and for good reason. In a relatively short period the country’s economy has gone from being largely isolated to being a focal point for foreign investment.
After a difficult 2015, marked by lower commodity prices and reduced export revenues, Peru is on track to begin economic recovery in 2016, with increased mineral output set to drive much of its rebound. The IMF forecasts growth to rise to 3.3% in 2016, up from an estimated 2.5% in 2015.
Oman’s long history of political stability coupled with its favorable international trade agreements and special economic zones has ensured strong growth in economic output and exports in recent years. The fall in global prices is undoubtedly a concern for the sultanate, but the sustained focus on diversification schemes, as well as the country’s ongoing spending commitments on big-ticket projects should ensure steady growth moving forward.
Located at a crossroads between Africa, Asia and Europe, Egypt remains one of the world’s most strategically important countries, as it has been for millennia. Egypt has the third-largest GDP in the Arab world, after oil-rich Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It is considerably more diversified than many economies in the region, with manufacturing and agriculture key contributors, making up 14.5% and 15.7% of GDP, respectively, according to the Central Bank of Egypt, as well as oil and gas extraction.
Kenya is one of the economic and political heavyweights of East Africa. Despite recent security issues, it is recording strong economic growth and maintaining its leading position in the region. Recent discoveries of new oil, gas and water reserves and a young population give further cause for optimism, and the government is working to put the right policies into place to maximise the country’s potential.
