Asia Economy

As a leading force in regional integration through the ASEAN trading block, Malaysia has managed to consolidate its position as the principle gateway to South-east Asia. Though smaller in terms of market size than its neighbours, it has consistently punched above its weight in attracting foreign direct investment dollars. Despite external headwinds in 2015 and the beginning of 2016, Malaysia...

Having undergone rapid development over the last half-century, Malaysia’s economy has progressed from relying on agricultural and primary commodities to being more broad-based and export-driven. Benefitting from long-term political stability, sound economic management and pragmatic leadership, the country possesses sound infrastructure, established health care and education systems, and an...

Sri Lanka is well situated for trade and an attractive target for international investment. Lying on major shipping and air routes, it is close to the markets of Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Moreover, the country has a literate workforce, good infrastructure, a healthy population and relatively low wages. Since the 2009 cessation of a long-running civil war, Sri Lanka has become one of...

This chapter contains useful facts for visitors, phone numbers for business associations and embassies, contact information for state agencies, and advice on travelling through tea country.

The Sri Lankan economy has been growing well recently despite a degree of political uncertainty and the global slowdown in emerging markets, with GDP expanding on average more than 6% since 2010. The new government inherited an economy with great potential but burdened by debt and lacking the types of investment to see it through to the next stage. Accelerating growth is now necessary, not...