African growth on the agenda

"You've got an incredibly young population, a dynamic population. Huge disposable incomes. I mean, $1.6tr of GDP, which is bigger than Russia, bigger than India," Kent said. "It's a big economy, and so rich underground."


This article highlights the huge investment the likes of Coca Cola and Nestle are making in terms of resources directed towards growing the business in Africa.


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Mexico turning to LATAM neighbours to develop trade

Interesting video from the FT on the growing importance of trade links with the south for the Mexican economy. Although still heavily reliant on the US economy, some 60% of FDI coming from the US, growth opportunities lay south of the border.

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China's needs feed Brazil's growth

While metals such as copper have been a huge export to China, agriculture is also riding high. A $7.5 billion commitment from the Chinese government has been made to develop agriculture in the state of Goias, in central Brazil. However, this is not just an act of charity - "The entirety of the planned 6-tonne increase in food production will be shipped to the Middle Kingdom." 


China's investment portfolio continues to expand - where and what next?


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Chinese consumers emulating the Japanese?

We have all seen the LV stores throughout the world bustling with Japanese tourists taking advantage of some modern day consumer arbitrage. Well based on a recent report by Bain & Co., it seems the Chinese are giving the Japanese a run for their money. More than half of all luxury goods purchased by the Chinese, were bought abroad. An estimated $13 billion, of which half of that was spent in Hong Kong & Macau, and the rest amongst the fashion capitals like Paris and New York.

LVMH claim that their LV products cost on average 35% more in China - is this not just a well structured plan to aid the French Tourism Board attract their pocket heavy friends from the east to some retail therapy?

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Russian Hybrid Car - not an oxymoron!

The first hybrid car to be manufactured in Russia, ё, is pronounced 'Yo' and was chosen after a crowd-sourcing exercise. The car is set to sell at around $10,000 - will be interesting to see if it can put other more well known hybrids to shame.

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Trendwatching's November 2010 issue focuses on emerging brands

Some examples of innovation and new brands coming out of emerging markets, such as China and India.

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India's luxury market set to grow

Recent article from Indian publication claiming that the luxury market is set to grow by 25% over the next few years, courtesy of a booming economy. As with the other BRICS, a growth in the middle class and disposable income, India is becoming a prominent market for international brands.

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