All Countries and All Sectors

With a gross GDP of approximately R3.2trn ($390bn) as of year-end 2012, South Africa has the largest economy in Africa and the 28th largest globally. Industrial strife and policy uncertainty, however, have become key sources of investor concern of late. Recent years of slowing growth have failed to make much of a dent in structurally high unemployment and inequality, although a new government-...

Often referred to as the Rainbow Nation, South Africa has a heterogeneous population that reflects its rich and sometimes turbulent history. Recent times have seen the country score a number of high-profile successes, such as inclusion in the BRICS bloc, as a result of strong economic performance. South Africa benefits from strong ties with a number of major global powers, among which its single...

Among the cultural attractions that Colombia has to offer, its array of music and dance styles are the most representative. In addition to an introduction to Colombia’s most distinguished dances, this chapter contains helpful information for visitors to Colombia, including information on dress code, language, visas, communications, currency and traffic. It also features hotel listings and contact...

Since 1990 Colombia has attempted to modernise its legal system to promote economic growth and attract foreign investment. The array of recently signed free trade agreements as well as reforms to increase transparency and participation are redefining the legal landscape, which, having undergone significant improvements, still suffers from a weak judicial system in enforcement of contracts and...

This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of the tax reform introduced in 2012, which sought to increase transparency and participation and affected a number of important areas, such as capital gains, mergers, share acquisition, branch profits and equity contributions. Among other changes, the reform reduced the capital gains tax, introduced the concepts of thin capitalisation and income tax...