Hear what the experts are saying about their hot economies:
Australia/New Zealand |
Japan |
Singapore |
Australia is a one of America's top export markets in the Southern Hemisphere. It is approaching 20 straight years of economic growth; offers duty-free status to U.S. exports; has a strict regime of IP protection; and has a world-class infrastructure and a keen appreciation for U.S. products and services. American companies have long been attracted to the Australian market. Learn about doing business in one of the world’s most transparent markets! David J. Murphy, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Australia U.S. companies have enjoyed outstanding success in the Australasian market, but what about the future? With a new national government for the first time in 12 years, what will the new Australian leadership mean for U.S. companies? Come to APBO and learn more about this sophisticated market in which some Australian states are experiencing double digit growth. |
Tap into China, the world’s fastest growing consumer market, projected to be the 2nd largest consumer market by 2015. Find out about China’s hottest markets, especially the dynamic second-tier cities, where only 8% of the population accounts for 54% of China’s imports from the U.S. Learn more at the APBO conference or contact us at: http://www.buyusa.gov/china/en/landingpage2.html Barry Friedman, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Beijing It is not the inevitability of the Chinese economy becoming the global economic engine; it is the impact that Chinese domestic consumption will have on the global economy that concerns me most. Chris Goode, President of White (China) Drive Products, Zhenjiang, China Rapid growth. A voracious appetite for investment, technology, commodities, goods and services. A steady rise up the value chain, and a relentless march into global markets. No matter what business you do and no matter where you do it, China -- directly or indirectly -- is probably impacting your bottom line. And if it isn't yet, it will be soon. To cope with this basic fact of business life, you need to understand China's uniquely challenging commercial environment. Where has China come from? How did it get to where it is today? And what are the nuts-and-bolts of pursuing China's many opportunities while avoiding its many pitfalls? China is the next superpower or so a cavalcade of experts and journalists would lead us to believe. Its economic appetites, its diplomatic prowess and its growing military might mean that it's destined to rule Asia and beyond. Not so fast. A combination of factors -- demographic, political, environmental and social -- will yank this nation back to earth. As we say: "When in Rome, do as the Roman's do." However, this is the rule that is most frequently ignored by most multinational companies when doing business in China. If you understand and practice the "Chinese way" correctly, regardless of whether during negotiations or conducting any business or social dealings, you will develop a win-win approach that will yield benefits for all concerned. Mu Dan Ping, Co-founder and Executive Director of the World Heritage Foundation, Los Angeles APBO brings together experienced front-line experts from business, government, and academia, dealing with specific issues, providing unique value to business people interested in the China market. China presents unique opportunities for US business of all sizes and sectors, and in both the major commercial centers and growing 2nd and 3rd tier cities. Success in China is not without challenges and one key to success is having access to the right information and the right people. APBO 2008 provides a platform to help US companies tap a wealth of information from scores of experts with on-the-ground experience and expertise. AmCham-China is pleased to be a resource at APBO 2008 to continue its mission to support US industry in China. James Zimmerman, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce China. James Zimmerman, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce, China |
Macau is booming! Your sales are no gamble in this market with the help of the Commercial Service Hong Kong & Macau. Tired of subprime blues? Come to a superprime market where you get paid: Hong Kong! Stewart J. Ballard, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Consulate, Hong Kong |
With 40% average annual growth in imports of U.S. products, private consumption accounting for 60% of GDP, and more than 70% of its population of a billion people under the age of 35, now is the time for American business in India. The business you start today will grow for a generation. Carmine D’Aloisio, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, New Delhi Carmine D’Aloisio, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, New Delhi India's economy barreling ahead - soon to become the 4th largest in the world, juxtaposed against a flagging U.S. economy, the downturn of which, ironically, will be mitigated and possibly rescued by massive demand for high-end American products and services destined for Asia. Against this backdrop, a new confidence emerging within the private sector of India is spurring not only new investment within its borders - creating, in the bargain, significant opportunities for U.S. companies, but is buffeting a whole new wave of outward investment by Indian global players, who are diversifying risk and deploying assets on America's shores. This outward thrust by the Indian private sector is generating major employment and opportunity here at home - a story that has gotten lost in the din of protectionist, political rhetoric. This phenomenon of constructive symbiosis bodes well for a durable integration of these two dynamic economies. Ron Somers, President, U.S.-India Business Council, Washington, DC |
It's a great time for American companies to consider Indonesia, one of Asia's best kept secrets. This enormous market has sustained growth of over 6%, has a thriving democracy, strong fundamentals, and a young population of over 230 million, making it the world's fourth largest country. It's time to check into Indonesia's resurgent marketplace before your competitors beat you to it. Richard M. Rothman, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Jakarta Indonesia has been a fantastic market for Top Oil. It is the best kept secret in Asia and represents a great opportunity for other American exporters. Joseph M. Ryan, President, TOP 1 OIL PRODUCTS COMPANY, Burlingame, CA |
Don't underestimate the strategic power of Japan -- America's second largest investor and fourth largest export market. Bilateral investment flows, total trade turnover, and exports of American goods and services are at record levels. US firms are enjoying high returns. Opportunities abound for American businesses of all sizes who have new and competitive leading-edge products and services. The US Commercial Service http://www.buyusa.gov/japan/en/ wants to help your firm succeed in Japan -- the world's second largest economy. John Peters, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Tokyo Japanese consumers are among the most well-heeled and sophisticated in the world, with consumer spending in Japan reportedly accounting for 11% of the global economy. Today’s Japanese consumer is also more diverse and more open-minded than in the past, creating new opportunities for foreign multinational companies. For products and services that have evolved to serve developed markets (i.e., financial investment products, advanced pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and high tech to name just a few), it may be more relevant to consider the spending power of an individual consumer – not necessarily the raw number of people in a given market. Considering the quality of the workforce, business infrastructure and size of the economy, Japan should be one of the most lucrative markets in the world for successful American companies. |
Korea is one of the world’s leading economies and the 7th largest importer of U.S. products in the world. Its high-tech industry, sophisticated consumer market, and a growing small & medium-sized businesses make Korea an outstanding market to enter or expand presence in one of the most economically dynamic regions of the globe today. Korea and the United States are in the final stages of concluding a historic Free Trade Agreement, the most significant pact for the United States in fifteen years. Within the first three years after the implementation of the U.S.-Korea FTA, 95 percent of all consumer and industrial products will be duty-free. John Fogarasi, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Seoul |
The United States and Malaysia have been Free Trade Agreement negotiating partners for two and a half years now. Malaysia is our 10th largest trading partner with a trade balance 3:1 in Malaysia's favor. What does this mean? There is much unrealized potential in this market for U.S. firms, and the FTA negotiations have shed much light on how business is done here so we can help you navigate through the opportunities. Joe Kaesshaefer, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia saw a dramatic 69% increase in FDI from '06 to '07. This is a testament to the attractiveness of the incentive packages the country is offering, particularly in certain designated development regions such as the Iskandar Development Region (IDR) and the Northern Corridor Economic Region. What's even more impressive is the increased level of sophistication of FDI coming to Malaysia. For example, last year saw two very large investments from an American company and a German company in the solar cell/ solar panel industry. Jeff Hurst, Globalization Strategy Analyst, Integrated Defense Systems |
Mexico and the United States do over one billion dollars of business every day. Our southern neighbor presents enormous, multi-sector opportunities for American exporters, as well as a springboard to developing your Latin and South American business development strategy. Learn more at the APBO conference or http://www.buyusa.gov/mexico/en/ Michael A. Lally, Commercial Counselor, U.S. Embassy, Mexico City |
At the APBO Conference, I have met with dozens of exciting American businesses that are going global by focusing on the potential of the Asian market. This conference is the best venue I know of for American companies of all sizes to assess opportunities in Asia, meet the right people and get personalized guidance from Commercial Officers like me about specific markets. It is amazing how much business gets done in just two short days! Judy R. Reinke, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Manila |
Singapore is a small country that plays a big role in international trade. As a regional trading hub, Singapore is a Top 10 market for U.S. exports. Join me to learn what over 7,000 multinationals already know and why the World Bank has ranked Singapore as the easiest country in the world in which to do business. Daniel Thompson, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Singapore United Technologies has found Singapore to be an excellent hub for our aero engine overhaul and repair activities in the fast growing market in Asia Pacific. Kristin Paulson, President, United Technologies Int'l Operations, Singapore |
U.S. exports to Taiwan have increased 27% during the past five years and reached $23 billion in 2006. Taiwan is a robust market economy, which belies its relatively small population and scant natural resources. With one of the highest per capita GDP and household disposable income rates in Asia, Taiwan has become a very attractive consumer market for U.S. exporters. Taiwan's high tech sector is world-renown and U.S. exporters are prime suppliers for electronics, optical and precision instruments, information and communications products. Gregory Wong, Senior Commercial Officer, American Institute in Taiwan, Taipei |
After a coup deposed Thailand’s Prime Minister in September 2006, its position as a favorite investment market in SE Asia tarnished due to adverse economic policies. Come hear what the newly elected government is doing to bring back the luster with investor friendly policies and infrastructure development. Can they recover their competitive edge? Ann Bacher, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Bangkok |
When Vietnam became a member of the WTO on January 11, 2007, it officially and finally merged into the fast lane of the global economy. Vietnam’s economic growth rate has been among the highest in the world in recent years, and will register well over 8% in 2007. The market is red hot as with U.S. exports to Vietnam having increased by over 60% in 2007. The time is now for U.S. companies to get in on the front end of this expanding and long-term opportunity. Don Nay, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Embassy, Hanoi APBO is the most effective way to get a read on what is happening in Asian business and politics during a one stop, two day event. With a panel of business leaders on the ground and seasoned high level Department of Commerce Officials serving in key mature and developing economies in the Asia Pacific region, it is arguably one of the most efficient exposure to information, idea exchange, and connectivity to the Asian market available in the US today. Walter Blocker, Chief Executive Officer, GANNON Vietnam Ltd., Ho Chi Minh City |
How is it possible for a small design firm to venture into another culture, compete effectively toe to toe with the giants of their industry, and deliver buildings that stretch them significantly beyond their areas of expertise, yet not only serve their clients’ needs, but also exceed their expectations? Since 1991, Altoon + Porter, Architects, a firm of 32 design professionals, have successfully served prominent clients on major projects in 10 Asia-Pacific countries by developing a unique entrepreneurial business model. Ronald A. Altoon, FAIA, Founding Partner, Altoon + Porter Architects, LLP, Los Angeles Today, while the world is concerned about Global Warming, it is also worried about the Energy Crisis. On one hand, we are very concerned about Global Warming issues such as green-house gas emission, water and air pollution, climate change, and other environmental issues. On the other hand, the world is becoming more dependent on energy, especially, with today’s electronic gadgets, and our ever-growing taste for luxury cars. Lately, the power industry has evolved from regulated utilities into dynamic enterprises. Where large vertically integrated monopolies once dominated the industry, entrepreneurs and private investors are taking advantage of new opportunities to provide goods and services competitively. Where governments once stood guard over the public interest through regulation of the market, policy makers are now re-examining the nature of those interests and the best way to serve them. Major new opportunities for energy sector entrepreneurs are rapid becoming available around the Pacific Rim. Darr Hashempour, Ph.D., P.E., President and Founder, Expedient Energy, Tustin, CA The confusion about our relationships with China, Japan and India is so great that it could lead to gratuitous confrontations. APBO is the premier West Coast event where business executives, government officials and scholars come together to share insights about the opportunities and risks of contemporary Asia This is my third year at APBO and I wouldn't miss it. The quality of the program is absolutely outstanding. My own approach to issues of and worries about the Asian economy is to look for those large political or geopolitical factors that can intrude on prosperity. This year, it seems to me, the biggest worries are with the biggest entities -- China, Japan and most of all the U.S., which of course is a major Asian country. Watch out for the ups and downs of the Big Three! |
