Industry

Ongoing developments in Abu Dhabi’s nascent microchip industry, such as plans for a major production plant and big investments by state-owned firms in cutting edge technologies, indicate a bright future for the sector.

Malaysia’s maritime freight trade could be in for a major shakeup, with the government launching a comprehensive study of shipping laws which bar foreign firms from domestic lines.

With its large pool of English-speaking professionals and well-developed infrastructure, the Philippines is poised to overtake India as the world’s largest supplier of international business processing (BPO).

Nigeria’s once vibrant textile industry has all but disappeared in recent years under competition from cheaper foreign goods. However, strengthening the real sector of the economy is a central component of the government’s plan to diversify away from hydrocarbons. A large-scale funding programme is in the works to bail out textile companies and promote the manufacturing sector as a whole.

Prospective investors took note when it was announced in late July 2010 that Bulgaria’s largest steelmaker, Kremikovtzi, will be up for sale in mid-September 2010. The news comes four months after the company went into liquidation and a year after major creditors refused to approve a rescue plan for the ailing company.

Sharjah is moving to strengthen the foundations needed for industrial expansion, building on existing infrastructure and working to attract further investment to its manufacturing sector, both at the direct production level and for supporting services.