Top Stories


Top Stories - Sector specific

Crafting the Perfect PR Strategy

An interview with Virginie Simon, founder of Simon&Co, Posted: 17th April 2024 09:02
The complex world of public relations and communications often requires a diverse set of skills and tools to conquer, with one industry or market requiring a very different strategy to the next. Exceptional PR strategies develop strong brands, which in turn capture their audience’s imagination and often act as a catalyst for measurable growth and long-term success. But PR comes in variou ... Read more...

Advancements in H-1B visa procedures for fiscal year 2025

Bolstering integrity and facilitating renewals, Posted: 2nd April 2024 09:32
The H-1B visa – a widely coveted nonimmigrant work visa, particularly beneficial for highly skilled foreign professionals, especially in STEM fields – is undergoing significant changes in its registration process for the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY2025). In response to concerns about widespread fraud and misuse, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented noteworthy adju ... Read more...

The Patentability of Neural Networks in Europe

26th January 2024 16:58
The UK High Court has just ruled that neural networks are not excluded subject matter under the UK’s computer programs exclusion – has the UK just become the most patent-holder friendly jurisdiction in Europe for AI? By Kimberley Bayliss, Mark Richardson & Colin Paterson.   Before the Emotional Perception ... Read more...

Aurachain Accelerates Growth Strategy and Appoints a Deputy CEO

18th January 2024 09:17
Aurachain, the AI-driven low-code platform for building digital process solutions, has appointed Septimiu Postelnicu as its Deputy CEO, effective from February 1, 2024.   This strategic move reinforces Aurachain’s global expansion and its ongoing dedication to operational excellence. “As we experi ... Read more...

Key Steps in Establishing a Successful E-commerce Business

29th December 2023 09:42
Introduction In today's digital era, the e-commerce industry is growing at a breakneck speed and shows no signs of slowing down. As we surge into 2024, it remains a lucrative business opportunity filled with vast potential for entrepreneurs and business owners. Why e-commerce is a lucrative business opportunity in 2024 Launchin ... Read more...

Patient Safety Alert: The Critical Issues Surrounding Bard PowerPort Defects

22nd December 2023 09:38
Medical devices are crucial in modern healthcare, enabling diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients with various conditions. However, when these devices malfunction, the consequences can be devastating, putting patient safety at grave risk. This is precisely the case with Bard PowerPorts. It is a specific type of implantable vascular access device which have recently been linked to a serie ... Read more...

What Is Generative AI and How Does It Work in Translations?

13th December 2023 00:33
AI seems to revolutionise industries and grow at an expected rate of 37.3% between 2023 and 2030. This is because, according to statistics, around 35% of businesses have successfully adopted AI, and many will follow the lead soon.    Among the amazing products of this technology, Generative AI is popular these days and may help your business grow at an e ... Read more...

Effective LinkedIn Marketing Strategies for B2B Businesses

1st December 2023 08:47
Introduction to LinkedIn Marketing for B2B Businesses Welcome to the exciting realm of LinkedIn marketing! Let's dive right into it. Definition of LinkedIn Marketing LinkedIn marketing, put simply, is the process of using LinkedIn - the world's largest professional network - to drive your business, establish strategic p ... Read more...

Exploring New Frontiers in Medical Research and Innovation

25th October 2023 17:41
Medical research and innovation are perpetual frontiers of human knowledge and progress. Researchers and scientists are continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible in healthcare, leading to novel discoveries and innovative solutions that improve the quality of life and extend our understanding of diseases and their treatment. Below are some of the new frontiers in medical research and ... Read more...

Avoiding Accidents In the Workplace

20th October 2023 14:20
Accidents are a serious problem for workplaces all over the world. Serious injuries are caused every day by improper practice. In addition, many businesses get shut down, and owners can face fines and legal trouble for not following regulations. Whether you’re a business owner or an employee, you need to be mindful of potential accidents and how to reduce them. ... Read more...

Networking in the Business World

20th October 2023 10:18
Networking is an essential element of the business world that has far-reaching implications for individuals and organizations alike. It is the practice of connecting with others, building relationships, and exchanging information to facilitate personal and professiona ... Read more...

Why Should Businesses Offer Employees Health Insurance?

12th June 2023 10:13
In the US, over 70% of businesses offer their employees business health insurance. While purchasing health insurance for your employees can be expensive, it also has many benefits. Here are some of the reasons why you should include it in your businesses benefit package: 1. Improve Your Recruitment Strategy A recent survey found that over 70% of employees look ... Read more...

A Step-by-Step Approach to Selecting the Best Business Energy Plan

12th June 2023 10:10
Running a successful business involves juggling a huge range of responsibilities, and one crucial aspect that often demands attention is selecting the right energy plan. But with so many options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to determine which one best suits your needs. In this post, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step approach to help you select the best business energy pl ... Read more...

Marriage Registration and Marriage Contracts for Foreigners in Ukraine

By Oleksandr Gubin & Olena Sibirtseva, Posted: 19th December 2022 08:39
International marriage is not something new in the modern world. Globalisation, immigration, and relocation have a great influence on the increasing number of cosmopolitan families. We want to bring your attention to the legal side of such relations. Below we will touch the most popular points, which both spouses should keep in mind to avoid unnecessary troubles and obstacles. &nb ... Read more...

Vietnam’s Rail Network: Slow Train Headed for Fast-Track?

13th December 2022 11:32
Spanning the breadth of the Red River, Long Bien Bridge, built by the French over a century ago, was once a key arterial for the city of Hanoi. Largely replaced by road transport and air travel, however, it now stands rusted and decayed, remnants of a by-gone era in which rail ruled supreme. Indeed, Vietnam’s rail network has stru ... Read more...

Five Reasons Why You Should Automate Your Business

23rd November 2022 09:24
As a business, you want to get ahead in the competitive corporate world to guarantee high sales and profits. One way of achieving this is by automating your business strategies. Automation allows technological applications to take over repetitive tasks so that employees focus more on valued work. Automation requires you to make informed decisions like ... Read more...

An Introduction To The Russian/Ukrainian Referendum Regions

28th September 2022 10:22
Controversial referendums are taking place in four disputed regions between Russia and Ukraine. We provide a regional overview and the implications should they be annexed. Referendums have been held in four disputed regions between Ukraine and Russia:   Donetsk and the Lugansk People’s Republics and the Zaporozhye and Kherson Reg ... Read more...

Discover The Beauty Of Life On The Open Waters With A Connection To The Surroundings With The SL96

7th September 2022 10:18
Enjoy life out on the open water with Sanlorenzo's SL96 Asymmetrical superyacht Based on Italian yard Sanlorenzo's widely successful platform, the SL96 Asymmetric superyacht is designed to offer her owners a new way of living out on the open wa ... Read more...

Automating Processes: Why It’s Become a Go-To Solution for Business Management

9th June 2022 11:42
When it comes to general business management, especially with startups, automation has turned into one of the most popular buzzwords, and for good reason. When new business owners push for automation early on, they get a clear advantage over the rest of the competition. It might not seem like automation is necessary for a small business that can still handle inner proces ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

20th May 2022 10:43
May 20, 2022 – China recorded 193 new confirmed cases, of which 17 were imported (9 in Fujian, 2 in Shanghai, 2 in Jiangsu, 2 in Guangxi, 1 in Beijing, and 1 in Yunnan) and 176 domestically transmitted cases (88 in Shanghai, 50 in Beijing, 8 in Tianjin, 4 in Henan, ... Read more...

Solvent Debtors Behaving Badly And The Bankruptcy Code Sections And Other Statutes That Enables Them To Screw Their Creditors

By Selwyn D. Whitehead, Esq., Posted: 12th May 2022 12:36
As a solo community-based practitioner whose financial issues practice focuses on consumer and small business bankruptcy clients, by choice; I readily admit that I sometimes see the world through the lens of my clients. As such, it is my contention that the primary purpose of the Bankruptcy Clause, is the means through which honest, but unfortunate ... Read more...

Scottish Retail Returns To Pre-Pandemic Levels

20th April 2022 10:16
During the pandemic much of retail bounced between being open and closed, significantly impacting sales and changing consumer behaviours. In March 2020, non-essential retail stores began to close and in March 2021, Scottish retail was in lockdown, pushing many consumers to buy goods online. In this context, all comparisons are provided on a year-on-3-year basis (Yo3Y), we have also inc ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

13th April 2022 09:56
April 13, 2022 - U.S. Ordered Departure for U.S. Consulate General Shanghai: According to a statement released by the US Mission China on April 12, 2022, the Department of State had on the day prior ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members from the U.S. Consulate Gene ... Read more...

U.S. Ports Seeing Brief Slowdown From Last Year But Imports Remain High

8th April 2022 09:52
The nation’s major retail container ports have begun to catch up with the backlog of cargo seen over the past several months, but could experience another surge this summer, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.    “As we ... Read more...

China Public Holiday 2022 Schedule

5th April 2022 10:33
The State Council released the official China public holiday 2022 schedule through its Circular of the General Office of the State Council on the Arrangement of Public Holidays in 2022 on October 25th 2022. As is traditional, the holiday schedule features two major week-long holidays (often referred to as ‘Golden Week’): Spri ... Read more...

Three Businesses That Could Be Worth Starting in 2022

30th March 2022 16:09
Have you decided that 2022 will be the year you take control of your career? Are you tired of working for someone else and you have dreams of starting your own business? While there is a risk with becoming an entrepreneur, some businesses will be much more likely to succeed thanks to current market trends, demands and just the nature of the company. Here’s a look at three businesses that ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

14th March 2022 10:13
Shenzhen on Lockdown: The southern Chinese tech hub of Shenzhen was put under a citywide lockdown on Sunday, March 13, 2022, after 66 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the city. According to the ... Read more...

Income Protection Insurance: Why Do You Need It?

24th January 2022 11:41
In a world where it seems there’s an insurance policy for almost every eventuality, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice, and unfairly sideline cover which could actually be immensely useful. We all know that things like home insurance, ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

19th January 2022 09:57
Latest COVID-19 Updates January 19, 2022 – China reported 87 new confirmed cases, including 32 imported c ... Read more...

Vietnam’s New Normal: The Hybrid Work Strategy

13th December 2021 10:01
Since the pandemic, a new work model has been permeating offices worldwide. The hybrid workplace is a relatively new model that has allowed employees to work from home while allowing them to come to the office depending on the pandemic situation and movement restrictions. As measures related to the pandemic are lifted, Vietnam’s employers are coming to acceptance of what a mo ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

1st December 2021 09:13
Latest COVID-19 Updates In the press conference held on November 30, the National Health Commission (NHC) said most of China’s new local cases confirmed since the start of November have been concentrated in border and port cities. With regard to the recent outbreak in Inner Mongolia, NHC said it was caused by a new imp ... Read more...

Luxury Expert Lars Peter Jung-Larsen Joins House Of Pilati As New CEO

22nd November 2021 14:38
House of Pilati – A European and Middle Eastern design company that creates one-off collectables for Ultra-High-Net-Worth individuals – is delighted to announce that Lars Peter Jung-Larsen has been appointed CEO.   Jung-Larsen brings more than 25 years of expertise in luxu ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

9th November 2021 09:45
Latest COVID-19 Updates November 9, 2021 – China reported 62 newly confirmed cases, including 19 imported cases (4 cases in Guangdong, 4 cases in Guangxi, 2 cases in Tianjin, 2 cases in Shanghai, 2 cases in Sichuan, 2 cases in Yunnan, 1 case in Beijing, 1 case in Fujian, a ... Read more...

What are low-code platforms and what makes them so popular in enterprise environments?

2nd November 2021 08:07
These days, companies are increasingly interested in technologically advanced solutions offering extensive feature sets, while being simple and easy to use. Every year, technologically-conscious organizations opt for implementing low-code platforms, willing to use them to manage their business processes. Making that decision guarantees a number of benefits, making it a great b ... Read more...

An interview with Gábor Windt (Windt Technologies)

Achieving the black belt in sustainable technology, Posted: 26th October 2021 12:52
Windt Technologies is an insulation technology company that manufactures and supplies innovative new products to aid global sustainability. The brand’s flagship product is called Tarrasch07: a revolutionary paint-like liquid thermal insulation that can be used in a range of exterior and interior comme ... Read more...

An interview with Miklós Palencsár (Mentors & Partners Group)

How your personality can affect business decision-making , Posted: 26th October 2021 12:46
Mentors & Partners Group is Hungary’s premier consulting firm that specialises in business strategy, business mentoring and organisational development. For multinational companies entering or working in Hungary, MPG offers unparalleled market knowledge, data, and access. The company works alongside international HQs and their domestic outposts to execute organisational improvemen ... Read more...

China Labor Shortage – HR Strategies To Remain A Competitive Employer

14th October 2021 09:58
China is in the midst of a growing labor shortage that is placing increased pressure on the manufacturing industry. While similar shortages are being felt by many countries around the world as workers fail to return to the workplace due to persistent fears of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing attitudes toward the nature of work, China’s current predicament ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

4th October 2021 09:20
Latest COVID-19 Updates. October 4, 2021 – China reported 27 new confirmed cases. Among them, 26 new cases were imported: 7 cases in Yunnan, 4 cases in Guangdong, 3 cases in Shanghai, 3 cases in Shandong, 2 cases in Heilongjiang, 2 cases in Hunan, 1 case in Beijing, 1 case ... Read more...

Five of the Biggest Challenges in the Manufacturing Industry

29th September 2021 14:07
The manufacturing industry is constantly changing, posing new challenges for people working within that world every single day. The important part as someone working within that industry is to make sure that you are aware of the different types of challenges coming to your door, whether in the next six months or in the next six years. This guide has been specially created to help you k ... Read more...

China’s 2021 Holiday Schedule

22nd September 2021 09:28
China released its official holiday schedule for 2021 through its “Circular of the General Office of the State Council about the Public Holiday Arrangement for 2021, on November 25, 2020. As is traditional, the holiday schedule features two major week-long holidays: Spring Festival (also known as Chinese New Year) and the National Day holiday. ... Read more...

Could The COVID-19 Pandemic Be A Blessing In Disguise From An Immigration Perspective?

By Yohan Zingile, Posted: 14th September 2021 08:32
Supply chain professionals have raised alarm over the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused businesses in the United States. According to business leaders, the pandemic has exposed the weaknesses of U.S. industries and consequently the U.S. economy. In particular, the manufacturing sector is confronting a big challenge as it has shown its limits due to the disruptions in supply chain. B ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

7th September 2021 11:19
Latest COVID-19 Updates September 7, 2021 – China reported 36 new confirmed cases, all of which were imported (22 cases in Yunnan, 4 cases in Shanghai, 4 cases in Fujian, 2 cases in Liaoning, 2 cases in Guangdong, 1 case in Zhejiang, and 1 case in Shandong); no new deaths; ... Read more...

Malaysian Prime Minister Resigns, Deepening Political Crisis

19th August 2021 09:24
Malaysia’s prime minister (PM), Muhyiddin Yassin, offered his resignation to the country’s King on August 16, 2021, after less than 18 months in power, making him Malaysia’s shortest-ruling leader. His resignation follows months of political turmoil that resulted in the loss of the premier’s majority in parliament. Muhyiddin Yassin will remain as ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

12th August 2021 09:40
Latest COVID-19 Updates July 5th 2021 - August 12th 2021 Shanghai will start COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 12 to 17 gradually. Starting from August 12, children aged 15-17 can be registered for vaccination. The guardian can register and make an appointment online through the & ... Read more...

Throw The Perfect Corporate Party With A Live Cover Band For Hire

4th August 2021 09:22
How To Throw The Perfect Corporate Party? Planning a stellar company party can be both a thrilling and trying experience. However, one of the most surefire ways to throw the perfect company event that will leave guests talking about it for years to come is simple. Just surprise them. ... Read more...

Three Techniques for Inventory Optimization

23rd July 2021 07:53
While there is plenty of information online about tracking goods, organizing your warehouse, or implementing more efficient pick and pack processes, there’s very little about stock optimization. Inventory optimization is becoming an increasingly popular technique for improving the efficiency of the supply chain, with many inventory managers looking to incorpora ... Read more...

Assessing the Future of Computer Engineering

21st July 2021 09:38
The most significant breakthroughs in our modern world result from computer science. It’s hard to know where to begin to talk about how it has positively impacted every area of our lives.    Computer engineering and software engineering have furthered education, improved healthcare, and accelerated business growth. It has also made the world sa ... Read more...

Vietnam’s Transport Infrastructure Master Plan: Three Proposals For Implementation

20th July 2021 09:15
In April 2021, Vietnam’s transport ministry announced its transport infrastructure master plan between now and 2030, which is estimated to cost between US$43 billion and US$65 billion. Under the master plan, Vietnam will build thousands of kilometers of new expressways, high-speed rail routes, deepwater ports, and new international airports. The governm ... Read more...

Palmara Health (Natural Cure Labs LLC) Wins Health & Wellness Nutrition Manufacturer of the Year – Florida

19th July 2021 09:47
Winners in the Corporate Livewire Innovation & Excellence Awards 2021 Founded in 2015, Natural Cure Labs LLC (paren ... Read more...

How To Sell Online In India: Sector Profile And Step-by-Step Guide

19th July 2021 09:21
Spurred by increasing smartphone penetration, an expanding internet user base, and rising consumer wealth, e-commerce platforms have revolutionized the way business is done in India. Estimated to be currently at 25 percent of the total organized retail market, India’s online retail segment is projected to reach a 37 percent share by 2030. The c ... Read more...

China Coronavirus Updates: Latest Developments And Business Advisory

5th July 2021 09:30
Latest COVID-19 Updates June 1st 2021 - July 5th 2021 July 5, 2021 – China reported 22 new confirmed cases, including 19 imported cases (6 cases in Shanghai, 5 cases in Guangdong, 5 cases in Yunnan, 2 cases in Sichuan, and 1 case i ... Read more...

Leveraging Technology to Improve HR And Payroll Management

11th May 2021 09:31
More and more companies today are seizing upon the advantages of using a ‘tech-powered’ HR and payroll solution to help them with their China employee management. In doing so, they are transforming their businesses into more efficient and mobile operations, which better meet the norms of international business, with more capable apps or portals to serve their intern ... Read more...

An Expert Discussion on Infrastructure & Project Finance in the United States

With Benjamin Grayson and Todd Alexander , Posted: 7th May 2021 11:58
The change in presidency from Donald Trump to Joe Biden has brought about notable changes for the infrastructure and project finance landscape in the United States. In this expert discussion, Ben Grayson and Todd Alexander of Norton Rose Fulbright explore some of the biggest compliance issues and potential pitfalls facing firms, as well as identifying emerging trends, strategies and opportunities. ... Read more...

Changes To Social Security Rates In Indonesia For 2021

22nd April 2021 11:02
Indonesia has implemented new social security rates for 2021, which will impact the health and pension premiums. The government has increased the premium for Class III healthcare facilities for non-employees from 25,500 rupiah (US$1.74) to 35,000 rupiah (US$2.39) in addition to reducing the maximum wage base for pensions from 8,939,700 rupiah (US$612) to 8,754,60 ... Read more...

Post-COVID M&A developments in Japan

By Shigeki Tatsuno & Yuki Sakioka, Posted: 7th April 2021 09:06
COVID-19 has been a scourge on the world economy, at one point slowing all social and commercial activity almost to a standstill. This article examines the M&A landscape in Japan since the outbreak of the global pandemic.   M&A activity since onset of pandemic   When t ... Read more...

China Still a Tier-3 Manufacturer in Global Rankings

23rd March 2021 09:10
Miao Wei (苗圩), China’s Vice-Chairman of the CPPCC National Economic Committee and former Minister of Industry and Information Technology, stated at the recent Two Sessions meetings that China’s manufacturing strength is still that of a Tier-3 global power. Miao is not just a politician, but an astute businessman. Prior to his political career, Miao was ... Read more...

Singapore’s Digital Economy Partnership Agreement

16th February 2021 08:53
Singapore’s Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) with New Zealand and Chile came into effect on January 7, 2021. DEPA was first signed in June 2020 and is the world’s first ‘digital only&a ... Read more...

2020 and the growth of the online entertainment business

4th January 2021 09:50
2020 has seen a real growth when it comes to the online entertainment business, with so many different areas seeing a surge in the number of visitors. What is the reason behind this? Well, the sector has already been seeing this growth in recent years and there is no doubt that COVID-19 has certainly played a positive role on this. For most industries around the world, the pandemic has been a real ... Read more...

Vietnam Sets Ambitious Goals in New National Industrial Policy but Can It Stay Competitive?

Written By Julia Nguyen, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 30th November 2020 12:00
In September 2020, the Vietnamese government issued an action plan implementing Resolution No 23/NQ/TW, which sets out a national industrial policy until 2030 with a vision towards 2045. The resolution was first signed in March 2018. What are the goals outlined in the policy, and how does Vietnam intend to accomplish these goals? We assess the curr ... Read more...

Tamil Nadu’s Incentives for Manufacturing in India

Written by: India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 23rd November 2020 11:36
The state of Tamil Nadu continues to boost its business environment for manufacturing investors. It unveiled an electronics manufacturing policy in September and announced its decision to set up an advanced manufacturing hub in partnership with the World Economic Forum, the first of its kind in South Asia. On September 7, Tamil Nadu released the Tamil Nadu ... Read more...

Dismissing an Employee in a Senior Role: Some Insights Based on Case Studies

Written by Donfil Huang, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th November 2020 10:39
In this article, we look at two case studies and address some commonly asked questions regarding the dismissal of an employee holding a senior position or important role in the company. The focus is on addressing questions about the company’s intention and the legal basis of such a dismissal. Case 1 ... Read more...

Leading Trends in China’s Services Sector After COVID Disruption

Written by Alexander Chipman Koty, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th November 2020 10:00
China’s services sector is the main driver of the country’s economic growth and the basis for the next stage in its development. Like other areas of China’s economy, however, it was disrupted by the  ... Read more...

Investing in ASEAN’s Healthcare Sector: New Opportunities After COVID-19

Written by: Ayman Falak Medina, ASEAN Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 28th September 2020 10:27
The COVID-19 pandemic will drive reforms and open investment opportunities for ASEAN’s healthcare sector, particula ... Read more...

After IT, Telangana Wants to be India’s Electric Vehicles Hub

Written by: India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 22nd September 2020 08:56
The state of Telangana approved the new Telangana State Electric Vehicle and Energy Storage Solution Policy in early August to mobilize greater investment into the sector. On September 10, Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary to the Information Technology, Electronics & Communication (ITE&C) Department in the Telangana government, said that el ... Read more...

Tackling the price hikes in the energy sector

An Interview with Peter Chalmers (Greener Energy Group) , Posted: 7th September 2020 15:37
If it seems as though you are paying more for your energy bills than ever before that is probably because you are. According to research from comparethemarket.com, energy bills in the UK have risen by 40% in five years, taking the average UK household costs up to a record £2,707 per year. ... Read more...

Indonesia’s Healthcare Industry: Growing Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Written by: Ayman Falak Medina, ASEAN Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 11th August 2020 11:16
Indonesia’s healthcare industry is a lucrative investment opportunity for foreign investors as the growth of its middle-class and the introduction of universal healthcare has driven demand in almost all aspects of the industry from hospitals to pharmaceuticals to medical devices. The government, in its attempt to open the sector more to foreign investors, made ... Read more...

An Interview with Eric Watkins, President of Pipeline Outbound at Abstrakt Marketing Group

3rd July 2020 09:15
Based in St. Louis, MO, Abstrakt Marketing Group is a full-service lead generation agency, offering inbound and outbound solutions. With more than 800 clients, their market leading Pipeline Outbound has enabled businesses across the United States to achieve growth by building and maintaining a consistent sale ... Read more...

How Will Your Business Recover After COVID-19?

29th June 2020 10:55
We all now live in an unfamiliar world, one that we could not have imagined a few months ago. So, if the pandemic has hit your business hard, it’s perfectly understandable if you’ve become pessimistic about a business recovery. But if this is how you feel, now is the time to recall the fighting words of John D. Rockefeller: “I always tried to turn every disaster into ... Read more...

How India Plans to Recover its Economy After Lockdown and What it Still Needs to Do

Written by: Nishtha Yadav, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 16th June 2020 10:27
Like most countries around the globe, India too, is experiencing a COVID-19-led economic downturn. The Indian economy has been severely impacted by the three-months-long lockdown imposed by the government to prevent the spread of the virus. Due to the lockdown, economic and industrial activity across the country has halted, leading to an  ... Read more...

Achieve maximum impact in healthcare communications from INNOTIO GmbH

11th June 2020 11:35
Healthcare is evolving at an increasing rate. New technologies are continually being introduced, creating excitement among medical practitioners, researchers and patients alike. As a result, effective communication is more critical than ever before to ensure the impactful implementation of the latest findings and new advancements in healthcare.   In this article, ... Read more...

China’s Two Sessions 2020: What Have We Learnt So Far

Written by Alexander Chipman Koty, China Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 4th June 2020 14:56
China’s top leaders convened for the annual Two Sessions meetings on Thursday, following over two months of delays due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Th ... Read more...

COVID-19 exit: The (uncertain) “new normal” in Luxembourg from a legal perspective

1st June 2020 10:08
On 13 March 2020, the Government declared strict containment of the population until further notice from 16 March.On 18 March, the state of emergency has been decreed by the Prime Minister (Grand Ducal Regulation 18 March 2020 – the “GDR”). ... Read more...

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower Revises Rules on Hiring Foreign Employees

13th May 2020 10:35
On March 3, 2020, the Ministry of Manpower of Singapore announced new measures aimed at supporting employers to hire more mid-career and senior Singaporeans in the post-pandemic ec ... Read more...

The Entrepreneur’s Survival Guide During Current Times

11th May 2020 10:16
You had big plans for your business in 2020. This was going to be the year that you advanced in your industry, beat out the competition, and become even more successful. Then, the coronavirus hit and changed everything. Maybe you’ve had to temporarily close up shop as a non-essential business, let go of hard-working employees, or things have simply been slow as millions of consumers cons ... Read more...

COVID-19 and the Effects on Supply Chains in Vietnam

Written By Pritesh Samuel, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 30th April 2020 12:15
The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed global trade and disrupted supply chains. The virus, which first started in China, shut manufacturing facilities for an extended period of time. As China, known as the factory of the world, shut factories, it resulted in a ripple effect battering global supply chains with businesses struggling to source raw inputs. This has ... Read more...

Rise of Mental Health Related Illnesses The Aftermath Covid-19

By Suganthi Singam, Posted: 27th April 2020 10:19
Whilst increasingly championed as an important cause, mental health related illnesses have yet to receive the prominence it deserves. Covid-19 has ravaged the world with lasting effects economically, sociologically and now psychologically. The Movement Control Order “MCO” has brought about changes in the daily lives of the workforce, and has resulted in a profound impact to the ... Read more...

COVID-19 in India: Finance Ministry Announces Temporary Relief, Extends Tax and Compliance Deadlines

Written by: Nishtha Yadav, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 24th April 2020 11:25
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to impact India economically as supply chains, business operations, and manufacturing for most of the sectors has been disrupted. The Indian government says that it is already workin ... Read more...

China’s Travel Restrictions due to COVID-19: An Explainer

Written by Zoey Zhang, China Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 14th April 2020 12:27
As the COVID-19 is now a pandemic, China has formally suspended the entry of most foreign nationals to prevent a second wave of the outbreak at home. Meanwhile, Chinese provinces and cities have rolled out different quarantine policies, such as quarantining travelers from overseas or other parts of the country for two weeks in a designated hotel or at home. ... Read more...

Surviving Covid-19: Redefining the employment landscape

By Suganthi Singam, Posted: 7th April 2020 14:49
The global pandemic caused by Covid-19 has presented challenges which many employers were unprepared for. As a result, it has made employers re-evaluate the way in which their businesses are run and the dependence on not only resources but the environment in which services are delivered.   In Malaysia, the government imposed a Movement Control Order with effect f ... Read more...

COVID-19 Lockdown in India: Top Tech Solutions for Businesses Working Remotely

Written by: Nishtha Yadav, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 3rd April 2020 11:38
In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak and a nationwide lockdown as underway until April 14, 2020, staff in most private and government organizations in India have had to suddenly work remotely. The concept of the virtual workplace though is not as common in India as elsewhere, and this includes in several multinational companies (MNCs) as well. Many MNCs tra ... Read more...

Coronavirus Pandemic Drives Demand for Travel Nurse Industry

30th March 2020 10:39
The coronavirus outbreak is causing a need for more travel nurses. The nursing industry covers several different areas including doctor’s offices, hospitals, and free medical clinics. Travel nurses are in high demand because they need to travel from their home regions to places that need help the most. A travel nursing firm can provide needed ... Read more...

Impact of China’s Disrupted Supply Chain on India amid COVID-19

Written by: Nishtha Yadav, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 23rd March 2020 08:36
With China being a major supplier of raw materials and components to the world, the global supply chain has received more than its fair share of shocks due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. Even though most factories and manufacturing units in China have by now resumed their operations, many have yet to run at capacity due to multiple challenges, including a smaller returning wor ... Read more...

Grainger Recognized as one of FORTUNE's 'World's Most Admired Companies' in 2020

27th January 2020 16:00
Grainger, the leading broad line supplier of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products serving businesses and institutions, is again named to&nbs ... Read more...

The Top 5 Trends in India’s HR Industry in 2020

Written by: Nishtha Yadav, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 20th January 2020 08:48
India has seen some significant changes in its human resources (HR) industry over the last five years. New priorities have included creating a diverse workforce, establishing gender parity and pay equality, providing mentors ... Read more...

E-commerce Logistics: Emerging Opportunities in Vietnam

Written by: Trang Le, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 11th December 2019 09:04
Vietnam’s e-commerce market size is expected to reach US$15 billion by 2025. Vietnam is the second fastest growing e-commerce market behind Indonesia according to the e-Conomy  ... Read more...

Four Ways to Tackle Common Project Management Issues

15th November 2019 08:00
Overseeing a large-scale business project is a difficult task, but it is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your skills. The difficulty that you will face while managing a project will depend largely upon the approach that you adopt and your ability to deal with some common issues. Here are some tips on how to tackle common project management issues. &l ... Read more...

An Interview with Linsay Duncan, Founder of Your Allies

Best in B2B Marketing - Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2019, Posted: 18th September 2019 12:45
Linsay Duncan and her industry-leading marketing services are well known to Corporate LiveWire having previously been named the Best in B2B Marketing as part of our Global Awards in 2018. A lot has changed in the proceeding 12 months with her business, formerly known as Marke2ing, rebranding to become Your Allies. However, one thing has remained the same; the London-based agency continues to provi ... Read more...

Businesses With Poorly Located Offices Could Have Trouble Hiring and Retaining Employees

29th August 2019 11:16
Businesses must pick their office locations with care and consider where the majority of employees live. U.S. employees would rather have a short commute than work at an office located near restaurants, coffee shops, retailers, or other amenities, according to a  ... Read more...

Tighter Border Security Measures Increases Growth Opportunities for Biometrics in the Public Segment

22nd August 2019 12:02
Governments across Asia-Pacific are investing heavily in biometrics for national identification projects such as national ID cards and ePassports. This use of biometrics by the public sector, and the installation of facial recognition technology and cameras for surveillance are expected to play a huge role ... Read more...

Cellulite Treatment Market Projected to Reach $1,438.5 Billion by 2026

13th August 2019 09:30
Cellulite has been the bane of many women (and men too) for years, but the market is expected to rise significantly through 2026, industry reports project. One report said that the global cellulite treatment ... Read more...

How to Market Your Supply Chain Business

7th August 2019 11:17
Unfortunately, supply chain businesses are notorious for neglecting their marketing strategy. In fact, many do not even have a marketing strategy in writing, which is a huge error. While supply chain businesses involved in logistics and distribution are often adept at strategizing and planning in, marketing is typically treated as an afterthought. Finding new clients is absolutely crucial to the c ... Read more...

Quick wins for making your business more eco-friendly

18th July 2019 12:22
Many businesses are now looking for how they can operate in a more eco-conscious way. Not only will this help for them to do their bit for the environment but also have positive effect on how they are viewed. This is down to the fact that this is becoming more and more of an issue and something that is being pushed by a wider audience. Several reports have already shown that a large nu ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A on Energy & Natural Resources with Alvaro Durán

29th May 2019 10:03
Can you outline the current energy & natural resources landscape in your jurisdiction?    The energy sector in Colombia has been and still is primarily focused on the country’s abundance of fossil fuels and natural resources. Colombia is the fourth largest country in terms of oil production i ... Read more...

Events 4 Sure Concludes Global Legal ConfEx & Law Tech Exhibition in New Delhi

7th May 2019 08:18
New Delhi The International Law Event Management Company, Events 4 Sure has successfully concluded its Global Legal ConfEx & Law Tech Exhibition in New Delhi on 25th April 2019. tkter.com which is a legal tech knowledge sharing platform was the associate partner of the event.   With an aim to offer a common platform to the legal and technology industries, ... Read more...

Key Business trends for businesses over 2019

1st April 2019 12:35
We are now well into 2019 and as such there are now many trends taking place when it comes to small businesses in 2019. Most industries are evolving and as such the nature of work is doing the same, so it is important to always keep track of changing trends that could have an impact on your business. There could also be many offers to take into account such ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A on Energy & Natural Resources with Mr. Venkatesh Raman Prasad

7th February 2019 09:44
Can you outline the current energy & natural resources landscape in your jurisdiction? India is the third largest energy consumer in the world, and its energy requirements are met through both renewable and non-renewable sources. As per the Energy Statistics, 2018 issued by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A on Energy & Natural Resources with Carlos Vilhena

1st February 2019 08:26
Can you outline the current energy & natural resources landscape in your jurisdiction? There is a lot of expectation for the next four years with respect to the energy and natural resources Sector in Brazil.  The new Government that took office on 1 January 2019 has promised a number of things that can have an enormou ... Read more...

Digital assets and do we need them?

By Charles Kerrigan & Jonny Fry , Posted: 30th January 2019 10:03
The US equity market is one of the most regulated and valuable in the world, but dependent on only a handful of entities, which, if compromised, say by a cyber-attack, could wreak havoc on the world economy. Nearly all the stocks and shares in the US are owned by Cede and Co. Like most people you may not know them. In fact, all the rights investors think they have to dividends and votes are depend ... Read more...

Top Six Enterprise Data Integration Tools You Should Be Using Today

10th December 2018 08:48
Data can be found in various places throughout your enterprise. Put simply, it is scattered just about everywhere and it is destroying your business. What happens when data is unlocked in unstructured documents is that processes are inefficient, not to mention that time and money is wasted. It is important to consolidate business information coming from several sources and compile it i ... Read more...

Electronic Data Systems Can Provide a Productivity Boost to Conservation Management

29th November 2018 08:30
Conservation management is about as far from an easy task as one could imagine. The scope of this task can be more easily understood by first looking at the reasons for it. Conservation efforts typically begin due to an issue with the local ecology. People first began to become more globally aware of the fragile nature of ecosystems in the 1980s. Since that time it's remained a ... Read more...

Eztek and Proserv sign partnership agreement in Abu Dhabi

14th November 2018 14:38
Through this strategic partnership, Eztek and Proserv will together provide a great product and service offering that has been localized for the Middle East market. Clients across the Middle East can now take advantage of the world-cl ... Read more...

Labor Contracts in ASEAN

By: Vasundhara Rastogi, ASEAN Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 20th September 2018 08:53
A labor or employment contract is a binding agreement between an employer and an employee, that addresses important employment terms, including those related to wages, benefits, termination procedures, and the duties and responsibilities of both parties. A well-drafted agreement not only sets out the ground rules of the relationship but also limits risk for both parties. In this ... Read more...

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence: An Interview with Annemarie Pucher, CEO of ISIS Papyrus

5th September 2018 10:56
Spring 2018 marks the 30th anniversary of ISIS Papyrus, an innovative company that has been changing the face of corporate software solutions ever since. Great offers are available similar to the Sugarhouse sign-up offer. Corporate LiveWire recently spoke with CEO Annemarie Pucher to discover how ... Read more...

ASEAN Meets with Russia & China; Discusses SCO & EAEU

By: ASEAN Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 13th August 2018 09:04
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has been meeting with ministers from the ASEAN bloc of countries in Singapore this past week in preparations for the ASEAN 2018 summit due to be held in November.  Several plenary sessions were held, with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi also in attendance.  Neither Russia nor China is members of ASEAN, however, C ... Read more...

Make in India: Incentives for Electronic System and Design Manufacturing

By: Oliver Gonsalves, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates , Posted: 23rd July 2018 09:14
Strong domestic consumer demand due to India’s rising disposable incomes and digitalization is spurring the need for developing indigenous electronics production capacities. Currently, almost 75 percent of this demand is servi ... Read more...

Requirements for posting workers to the Netherlands

By Marcel A.G. Reurs, Posted: 13th July 2018 08:55
What is a ‘posted worker’?   A ‘posted worker’ is sent by his employer to temporarily work in another country than where he normally works to carry out a contracted service (‘service provision’), work for an undertaking, belonging to the same group of undertakings as his empl ... Read more...

Vietnam: Opportunities in the Waste-to-Energy Sector

By Koushan Das, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 29th June 2018 09:08
With the rise in urbanization from 2004 to 2015, waste generated in Vietnam increased from 15.6 million tons to 27.8 million tons annually, an increase of 78.2 percent. Majority of the waste collected ends up in landfills, which contaminates the ground and surface water, increase pollutants, and affect public health. Waste-to-energy technologies offer a cost-effective solution that has ... Read more...

Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Business

28th June 2018 08:22
In May, Google demonstrated the ability of its artificial intelligent (AI) agent Duplex to have an actual conversation with real life people. It demonstrated it could book a hair appointment but struggled with a more nuanced conversation when attempting to make a ... Read more...

India’s World Cup Fever, New Sports Leagues Open Market Wide for Business

By Rohini Singh, India Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 27th June 2018 08:31
The 2018 FIFA World Cup, one of the biggest events on the sporting calendar, begins today. Despite the Indian team repeatedly not qualifying for the tournament, it is expected to have a viewership of over 100 million fans in India. During this time, marketing campaigns and business platforms able to leverage the large fan base w ... Read more...

Portugal and the Renewables’ – Reliance on Solar

By Manuel Santos Vítor & Ana Oliveira Rocha, Posted: 21st June 2018 08:58
I – The Past   Renewable energy sources have assumed a key role in the Portuguese energy mix for the last decade, i.e., since the first steps of the undergoing liberalisation of the Portuguese electricity market. Within the European Union context – as implemented at national level – renewable energy gener ... Read more...

Startup Ecosystem in Vietnam

By Koushan Das, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 14th June 2018 08:20
Vietnam currently has around 3,000 startups involved in sectors such as fintech, food tech, healthcare, and e-commerce. In 2017, 92 startups received investments worth US$ 291 million, 42 percent higher compared to 2016, while the number of startups increased by 45 percent. The industry still lags in terms of funding and scale when compared to startups in Southeast Asia, but there is h ... Read more...

China-Australia: Opportunities for Trade and Investment

By Dorcas Wong, China Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 8th June 2018 08:11
Australian Trade Minister Steve Ciobo visited China recently, and reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to strengthen the trade partnership between the two countries. The trip marked the first visit of the year from any high-level Australian minister, and the first visit from Ciobo since Sino-Australian diplomatic relations deteriorated. The Australia ... Read more...

Vietnam: Exporters Need to Self-Certify the Origin of Goods Exported to the EU

By Koushan Das, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 1st June 2018 09:30
From January 2019, Vietnamese exporters exporting goods to the European Union (EU) need to self-verify their product origin, if they want to qualify for the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the tariff preference for developing countries. This would shift the responsibility for self-certification from the Import and Export Agency which is under the M ... Read more...

Competition Law and E-Commerce

By Saifullah Khan, Posted: 24th April 2018 08:19
“Competition is not only the basis of protection to the consumer, but is the incentive to progress” - Herbert Hoover   Competition is the lifeblood of strong and effective markets.If there is no competition in the market, there would be no incentive to ... Read more...

Impact of Brexit on Competition & Antitrust

By Deirdre Taylor, Posted: 17th April 2018 08:30
Following the UK Brexit referendum in June 2016, as of 29 March 2019 (subject to political developments) the UK will no longer be a Member State of the European Union (“EU”). The likely impact of this on the areas of merger control, antitrust, and private litigation is explored below.   Merger Control ... Read more...

Supporting Industries in Vietnam

By Bao Chi Huynh, Vietnam Briefing, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 6th April 2018 08:40
Vietnam has undergone a substantial change in its economic structure in the last decade, shifting from agriculture to the industry and services sector. Since 2006, the service sector has had the highest share in the GDP distribution, followed by industry and construction, and agriculture. The supporting industries focus on the supply of raw materials, spare parts, and co ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A on International Trade with Daniel Martin

30th January 2018 08:30
Can You Outline The Main Import And Export Regulations In Your Jurisdiction? While it remains a member of the ‎EU, the UK continues to implement and enforce EU sanctions.   We are very busy at the moment dealing with a range of queries regarding the impact of sanctions against Russia, which continue ... Read more...

Preparing and Responding to a Data Breach

By Michael Bruemmer, VP, Experian® Data Breach Resolution & Consumer Protection, Posted: 18th January 2018 08:38
Preparedness   Just as people make resolutions intended to improve their personal and professional lives, businesses should also take the opportunity to make plans for the coming year. What will you do in the new year to make your business more profitable and secure?   May we suggest drawing some in ... Read more...

Joint Ventures in India: Learning from McDonald’s Experience

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th October 2017 08:47
A troubled relationship between McDonald’s and one of their Indian partners is spoiling the American corporation’s once impressive position in India’s food and beverage industry.   McDonald’s is set to close nearly 170 outlets in northern and eastern India; ... Read more...

Growing Food and Beverage Sector

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 18th October 2017 09:13
The food and beverage sector in Vietnam has shown strong growth in the last decade, driven by not only foreign brands, but also local brands. In the last few years, numerous foreign brands have invested heavily in the market and are predicted to continue to do so, largely driven by rapid urbanization, increased spending, and growth of the middle-class population. Local brands offering Vietnamese c ... Read more...

A new study by Dr Veronica James is being developed to revolutionise the diagnostic testing of cancer

6th July 2017 08:09
Dr Veronica James, nee Stark, OAM, has been profiled on position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence.   After earning a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland in 1956, Veronica James, whilst working as a full time teacher at Ipswich Girls Grammar School, went on to achieve a Bachelor of Science in 1966. This was followed by an equi ... Read more...

The Rise of the E-Cigarette Market

9th May 2017 08:10
The health problems associated with smoking are more widely reported than ever before and ongoing research is finding more ways in which smoking tobacco damages your health. Initial research was focused on the physical side-effects of smoking, such as damage to the lungs, emphysema, increased risk of heart attack and vascular diseases and, ultimately, death.  < ... Read more...

Electronics Production in Vietnam: A Guide to Emerging Opportunities

By Vietnam Briefing, Posted: 4th May 2017 08:32
While many industries of the Vietnamese economy are growing rapidly, perhaps the most exciting is electronics. Imports have nearly tripled from 2011 to 2016, while exports have increased by nearly 5 times — rising from US$12.8 billion to US$65.8 billion in 2015. In 2015 alone, electronics exports nearly doubled, something that took aggregate exports nearly four years to accomplish. In th ... Read more...

Industry Spotlight: Thailand’s Automotive Industry

By ASEAN Briefing, Posted: 23rd March 2017 10:08
Established over 50 years ago, Thailand’s automotive sector has developed into the biggest automotive hub in Southeast Asia and one of the largest in the world. As of 2016, Thailand stands as the 13th largest automotive manufacturer in the world. The country offers a dual advantage in terms of a large domestic market as well as an established automotive cluster of component suppliers. Th ... Read more...

Customs Procedures in Vietnam

By Vietnam Briefing, Posted: 16th March 2017 08:38
Following the relevant customs procedures when importing or exporting goods from Vietnam is one of the most vital aspects of doing business in a country where manufacturing costs are leveraged to its favor. Goods to be imported or exported are subject to the relevant customs clearance standards, which effectively check the quality, specifications, quantity and volume of the goods. Currently, these ... Read more...

How can team building lead to a productive workforce?

By Joe Spence, Posted: 1st March 2017 10:26
When you own a business, big or small, it’s important that you have a set of employees who get on with one another and understand each other's personalities. After all, teams that work well together often produce the best work. The whole philosophy behind team building is that you can achieve much more as a team than you can as an individual. In this age, businesses are all about ... Read more...

At Your Fingertips: Approaching China’s Mobile App Store Market

By China Briefing , Posted: 25th January 2017 08:19
According to a notice released by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), all mobile application (“app”) stores in the country are required to register with the government. Effective since January 16, 2017, the notice cites the dangers of illegal information, user rights violation, and security risks that can be spread through mobile apps. By requiring app stores to regis ... Read more...

The Legacy of Obamacare

By Imogen Rowley, Posted: 13th January 2017 08:15
Bill Clinton called it “the craziest thing in the world”. Trump says it’s a “total disaster” that will implode by itself come 2017. Vice President Joe Biden famously called it “a big f------ deal”. At any one time it’s been anything from a train wreck to the most important piece of healthcare legislation in the United ... Read more...

Expanding the 1% - why are there so few women working in construction?

By Imogen Rowley , Posted: 12th December 2016 08:23
The construction industry is struggling. A chronic shortage of skilled workers and construction management professionals is leaving companies with little choice but to expand their recruitment efforts into the formerly untapped realm of female labour. Women today make up 47% of the total UK workforce, and we are, believe it or not, in 2016; a year which saw a woman very nearly make it to the highe ... Read more...

Save the Date – 2017 Must Attend Exhibitions for your calendar

8th December 2016 08:31
As well as a good opportunity to get out of the office, exhibitions are often a highlight of many people’s work years. They come with a fantastic opportunity to network with other people, have amazing programmes to learn about the latest developments and hear from leading companies in the field. Whatever industry and team you’re in, there will be a sh ... Read more...

Gaming Trends in 2016

By Imogen Rowley , Posted: 5th December 2016 08:27
‘Evolve or die,’ is the motto, as technology continues its all-encompassing crusade to change the face of our planet as we know it. Few sectors have succeeded in dodging its sweeping grasp, and gaming is no exception. Since the first registered European casinos flung open their doors to punters at the start of the 17th century, gaming has largely been confined to smoke-filled b ... Read more...

Emerging Technology – A Look Back at 2016

By Imogen Rowley , Posted: 21st November 2016 08:22
Oculus Rift. Facebook live streaming. Throngs of people so transfixed by Pokemon Go they fail to notice Justin Bieber lurking in their midst. Reusable space rockets. FitBits and BrainBits and FitBarks. Food scanners that tell you how many calories are sitting in that custard slice. Smart fridges. Smart lawn sprinklers. Smart office chairs. 2016 has seen all manner of weird and wonderful tech, from ... Read more...

Redefining Leadership: Diverse and Global Perspectives

By Jean Lau Chin, Posted: 19th September 2016 08:13
As our communities become increasingly global, and countries throughout the world become increasingly diverse, we must examine leadership and psychology within a global and diverse perspective.   A digital age of rapid change, instantaneous communication, and increased mobility characterizes the 21st century.  Good and effective leadership is essential if we are to promo ... Read more...

Setting Up A Private Company Limited By Shares For Business In Ghana

By Eric Adjei-Laryea, Posted: 6th July 2016 08:37
Ghanaian law provides various vehicles by which a person may set up and conduct a business or commercial activity in Ghana. Thus, for example, a person may conduct business under a sole proprietorship. A business may also be conducted under a partnership arrangement. There is also the “Company Limited by Guarantee” which is the vehicle commonly used by not-for-profit organisati ... Read more...

Setting Sail in the Sea of Java: An Introduction to Indonesian Aquaculture

9th June 2016 08:33
As the world’s largest archipelago, Indonesia is among the most important producers of aquaculture globally. In 2001, Indonesia ranked fourth in aquaculture output and has since increased its fishery exports to US $4 billion in 2015. Though Indonesia’s aquaculture industry has begun to make strides, it is still far from realizing its full potential.   ... Read more...

Singapore: key arrest developments

By Kendall Tan & Max Lim, Posted: 6th May 2016 09:55
Singapore, owing to its strategic geographical location, continues to be a key venue for the arrest of ships. In this write-up, we chart Singapore’s forging of its own jurisprudence in the ever-important area of ship arrest laws.   The Singapore High Court’s admiralty jurisdiction is set out in the High Court (Admiralty Jurisdiction) Act (& ... Read more...

The Many Ways in Which E-Commerce Changes the Retail World for the Better

30th March 2016 09:46
E-commerce companies, led by Amazon, have been assaulting traditional brick and mortar stores for almost as long as the internet has been around. They allow shoppers to have access to an inordinate number and types of products without having to leave the comfort and convenience of their own home. In the fight for market share, that convenience has become a priority for&a ... Read more...

Trolls without Boundaries – IPR, A Newfound Application AIA Did Not Anticipate?

By Grace Pan, Posted: 25th January 2016 09:14
A new, savage breed of patent troll has pioneered a novel stratagem to prey on the pharmaceutical industry.  Under the auspice of reducing the cost of prescription drugs for the public and fostering healthier competition and innovation, the pharmaceutical industry, once thought to be immune from patent trolls, is now under siege by the very procedure that was designed to streamline patent ... Read more...

China Market Watch Exploring China’s Booming E-commerce and High Technology Manufacturing Industries

By China Briefing, Posted: 10th December 2015 10:31
China Launches International Payment System to Boost E-commerce Industry China’s Central Bank has recently launched the new China International Payment System (CIPS) in Shanghai, which will provide capital settlement and clearing services for cross-border RMB transactions affecting financial institutions domestically and abroad. The ... Read more...

Selling, Sourcing and E-Commerce in China 2016 – New Publication from China Briefing

By Dezan, Posted: 2nd November 2015 08:37
The latest publication from China Briefing, entitled Selling, Sourcing and E-Commerce in China 2016, is out now and available for purchase through the Asia Briefing Bookstore. &n ... Read more...

Vietnam Becomes World’s Fourth Largest Textile Exporter

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 10th July 2015 10:12
According to the Vietnam National Textile and Garment Group (Vinatex), Vietnam has become the world’s fourth largest textile exporter. In the first half of this year, the country earned an estimated US$12.18 billion from these products – a year on year (YOY) increase of 10.26 percent. The industry is well on its way to meeting its 2015 export target of US$27-27.5 billion. ... Read more...

China and Chile Sign DTA in Deal that Broadens Investment Opportunities for Chilean Companies

By Andrea Tonini, Posted: 16th June 2015 11:02
On May 24, Premier Li Keqiang and a delegation of Chinese senior officials arrived in Chile. During the visit, China and Chile signed a double taxation avoidance agreement (DTA), updated their Free Trade Agreement and agreed on setting up an RMB clearing center in Chile. China and Chile have developed a strong diplomatic relationship over the years. Chi ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A On Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals

With Nicola Baker-Munton, Posted: 11th June 2015 10:22
1) What systems can be put into place to minimise the risk of litigation? In order to minimise the risk of litigation it is necessary to be aware of your competitors, what they are doing and where- they will only sue if you are doing something that competes and they have grounds. Those grounds are most likely to be patent infringement or brea ... Read more...

What Does the Eurasian Economic Union-Vietnam FTA Mean for Your Business?

By Maria Kotova, Senior Associate, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 10th June 2015 09:24
The trade pact with the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) was the second Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Vietnam has signed this year, following the deal with South Korea on May 5. Vietnamese goods will have the chance to enjoy d ... Read more...

FTZ – The New Way to Do Business in China

By Barry H. Genkin, Posted: 4th June 2015 08:44
What can we do to increase sales and profitability when the European economy is treading water, and the U.S. economy is growing in the low single digits?  Where will my new customers come from and how can I market them?  Where will the most significant growth of middle class buyers come from?  Where is the discretionary middle-class buying power increasing faster than an ... Read more...

Monsoon Season: India’s Real Finance Minister?

By Nishant Dixit, Posted: 3rd June 2015 09:17
President Pranab Mukherjee once remarked that monsoon season was India’s true finance minister. Foreign observers may find the statement odd, but expatriates with experience doing business in India will sympathize with Mukherjee’s sentiments. India’s monsoon season normally arrives to Kerala state in June, and slowly spreads north to encompa ... Read more...

Philippine Aviation Industry Sees Strong Growth

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 26th May 2015 09:28
While 2014 was not a particularly good year for the aviation industry in Southeast Asia, the Philippines was an important exception to the wider trend. In a report released by CAPA, a global aviation think-tank, which looked at 18 airlines, it was found that out of the six airlines that were able to generate a profit in 2014, four of them were based in the Philippines: Philippine Airlines (PAL), C ... Read more...

The Importance of Payroll Confidentiality in India

By Nishant Maddineni, Posted: 21st May 2015 09:07
Payroll confidentiality is difficult to maintain in Indian workplaces. As in most countries, well-managed companies take extra care to make sure the payroll information of their employees is confidential. In India, however, there are additional challenges for multinational businesses attempting to maintain payroll confidentiality. Payroll support services have consequently become a business-critic ... Read more...

The Cost of Business in Singapore Compared With Hong Kong, China

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 13th May 2015 09:16
Singapore is the de facto financial and services hub for ASEAN, and as a city state with such a remit it is more pertinent to compare the dynamics of Singapore with Hong Kong rather than China as a whole. The two cities compete with each other – yet how do they stack up when compared?  In fact, since Hong Kong’s return to mainland Ch ... Read more...

Cloud Computing Services

By Adam Lee, Posted: 7th May 2015 09:56
Like it or not, cloud computing is the future of modern organizations and enterprises. Companies are adopting cloud technology because it has proved cost-effective and efficient. With cloud technology, businesses are able to utilize their resources better, focus on their core business, and worry less about managing their ... Read more...

Improve the Chances of Your Product Launch's Success

By Adam Lee, Posted: 6th May 2015 09:28
Launching a new product for your established or startup business can be tricky. You need to get your product in front of as many people as possible, so that when it launches, you have a steady flow of interested customers coming in to buy it. This is the best scenario, but for a lot of product launches, the item ends up sitting on the shelf for months before getting a sale. Here a couple of ways y ... Read more...

Beer Markets in the Asia Pacific: Investment Opportunities and Challenges

By NIshant Dixit, Posted: 30th April 2015 08:51
Rapid economic development, rising wages, and changing spending habits are creating new patterns of consumption in Asian markets. Alcoholic beverages markets, especially beer, have experienced growth across the Asia Pacific, with rising competition among domestic producers, entry of foreign players, and the emergence of craft brewing. The Asia Pacific beer market is expe ... Read more...

The Cost of Business in the Philippines Compared With China

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 28th April 2015 09:01
Part Six in our series comparing ASEAN nation business costs with China The Philippines is another of the ASEAN Tigers, with a population of about 100 million and GDP of USD300 billion is has been performing well over the past few years. However, political disputes with its large neighbor China over ownership of shoals and small islands in the South China tend to have ov ... Read more...

The Cost of Business in Malaysia Compared With China

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 23rd April 2015 11:40
Malaysia is one of the ASEAN tigers and enjoys a good standard of trade and political relations with China. Relatively good infrastructure, especially around the Kuala Lumpur region, and a savvy political will to upgrade ports and rail and invest in hi-tech capabilities has made the country a magnet for large volumes of foreign investment, including from China.   ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A On Mining

With Taiwo Afonja, Posted: 21st April 2015 09:12
1. Have there been any recent regulatory changes or interesting developments?   An interesting development in the Nigerian mining industry is the pending Metallurgical Industry Draft Bill, 2014 which is currently before the National Assembly– the Bill is for an Act to provide for the reg ... Read more...

What the China GDP Figure Isn’t Telling You

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 20th April 2015 08:32
China’s economic growth slowed to 7.4 percent last year, failing to fulfill its full-year economic target for the first time since 1998. However, China also became the world’s top destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2014, surpassing the United States. China maintained an average growth rate of more than 10 percent until 2010; its GDP growth rate reached a peak in ... Read more...

Vietnam Auto Industry could have Fastest Growth in Southeast Asia, but Challenges Remain

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Posted: 15th April 2015 09:12
HCMC – According to Vichai Jirathiyut, president of the Thailand Automotive Institute, Vietnam’s automotive industry will have the fastest growth in Southeast Asia over the next 20 years. This growth will be the result of increasing consumer demand, a young workforce, and strong ... Read more...

Trends in China’s Online Mobile Gaming Market

By Roy McCall, Posted: 13th April 2015 08:58
2015 may be the year that China leads the world in on-line gaming. China’s online gaming market (mobile and PC) as of 2014 exceeded RMB 100 billion (>US$15 billion), compared to the larger but slower growing US market. Presently, China’s video game console ban is less relevant simply because in China as in the rest of the world, mobile gaming is soaring in double digits. ... Read more...

Malaysia Sees Improvement in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Rankings

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 8th April 2015 09:34
Malaysia has introduced a new Goods and Services Tax of six percent. However, the country’s Customs Department has said that confusion over the new tax will last six months to a year. Consumer concerns regarding the GST have been over price increases, whereas businesses concerns have focused on compliance costs and its effect on competitiveness.   For m ... Read more...

Foreign Investment Opportunities in India’s Growing Biotechnology Industry

By Nishant Maddineni, Posted: 31st March 2015 09:33
India’s biotechnology industry is growing at an exponential rate, with the country’s bio-economy valued at US$4.3 billion at the end of 2013 – up from US$530 million in 2003. As a result, India now has the third largest biotech industry in the Asia-Pacific region and the most US FDA-approved plants after the U.S. With strong support from the Indian government, the ind ... Read more...

Taxation and Technology: Recent Developments on Cloud Computing in Brazil

By Maurício Barros, Posted: 24th March 2015 08:55
For some time now increasing technological development has caused uncertainty in the application of the Law.  This is because technology and the new business models it makes possible develop at a much faster rate than the slow legislative process.  The problem is even worse in the tax area because of the Brazilian Constitution’s rigidity in regard to taxes, taxpayers&am ... Read more...

ASEAN Case Study: The Auto Industry and GM

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Posted: 19th March 2015 09:34
With the ASEAN Economic Community going into effect at the end of this year, many companies are now seriously considering moving their operations to the region. However, the question remains as to where in ASEAN to base your business. As such, it is helpful to consider corporations that have made the move to ASEAN in the past and to try and understand their reasons for doing so. Below we delve int ... Read more...

Asian Investment in Europe’s Shipping Sector, Part 1: Trends and Intra-Asian Trade

By Rebecca Choong Wilkins, Posted: 12th March 2015 09:07
As growth stagnates, the European shipping sector is confident that the Asian market will remain a reliable lifeline. According to HSH Nordbank’s recent survey ‘Shipping goes to Asia 2015’, Europeans are increasingly optimistic that Asian capital will rejuvenate the industry this year.   The survey sampled 500 executives from its int ... Read more...

Choosing a Sourcing Model in China and Vietnam

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, , Posted: 5th March 2015 09:12
China and Vietnam both allow foreign entities to operate representative offices (ROs). Because these types of offices cannot undertake any commercial or industrial activities, receive payment in local currency, or manage export/import activities, they are considered an ‘indirect’ method of managing a sourcing operation.   ‘Direct& ... Read more...

China Investment Roadmap: The Entertainment Industry – New Issue of China Briefing Magazine

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 26th February 2015 08:51
The newest issue of China Briefing Magazine, titled “China Investment Roadmap: The Entertainment Industry,” is out now and available as a complimentary download in the Asia Briefing Bookstore through the month of March.   Contents:    - Market Overview: The Entertainment Industry in China ... Read more...

Hot Topics and Recent Developments in Construction and Real Estate law in Switzerland

By Wolfgang Muller & Christian Eichenberger, Posted: 20th February 2015 09:04
This article highlights the topics featured prominently in Switzerland’s real estate and construction law during 2014 and which will continue to be on the agenda in 2015:   Lex Koller   A standard hot topic in Switzerland for many years is the Swiss Federal Act on Acquisition of Real Estate by Persons Abroad (the so-ca ... Read more...

Over-the-Top (OTT) Streaming Services in Asia: Opportunities and Challenges for Foreign Investors

By Nishant Dixit, Posted: 18th February 2015 09:31
Over-the-Top (OTT) streaming services are expanding in the Asia-Pacific. Netflix will broaden its customer base by adding online viewers in Australia and New Zealand in March 2015 and Japan later in the fall. At the same time, Singtel, a major Asian telecom player, will be launching its online streaming service called HOOQ in several major Asian markets.   ... Read more...

Foreign IT Giants Rush to Tap China’s Cloud Computing Market

By Rainy Yao, Posted: 10th February 2015 09:42
Cloud computing, commonly called “the third wave of information technology”, has substantially facilitated the way people live and do business. Generally speaking, cloud computing can be defined as the practice of storing data and running software over the Internet. Commercially, it allows enterprises to avoid upfront infrastructure costs and focus on their core business. ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A On Energy & Natural Resources With Mosby Perrow

30th January 2015 11:07
1.  Have there been any recent regulatory changes or interesting developments? Yes.  One of the more significant regulatory developments that we will be tracking in 2015 is the interplay between the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) and other federal regulatory agencies su ... Read more...

Negligent Security: When is Standards and Training Your Problem?

By Gregory D. Lilyhorn, Posted: 20th January 2015 09:39
In the ever changing world of private security, protection officers’ roles and responsibilities are quickly adapting to a heightened security and legal environment.  Protection officer suppliers are turning to advanced training in order for their officers to be ready for whatever corporate and government security assignments come their way, but they must also ready for the legal ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A With Upendra Joshi on Energy & Natural Resources

16th January 2015 12:24
1. Have there been any recent regulatory changes or interesting developments?   The Indian Government is taking steps to address the issues relating to allocation of coal blocks and to this end has issued an ordinance and allied rules. These seek to bring about transparency and accountability in coal mines allocat ... Read more...

Vietnam Updates Visa Categories, Expands Visa-Free Access

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 12th January 2015 10:20
HANOI – Vietnam’s Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam came into effect on January 1, 2015, doubling the number of visa categories to 20.   Of particular note, foreigners are no longer permitted to change their visa category once inside Vietnam.  Therefore, the option of arriving on a t ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A On Energy & Natural Resources With Edmond Grieger

23rd December 2014 09:30
1. Have there been any recent regulatory changes or interesting developments?   On August 2014, Mexican Congress reached the approval of the reform minutes to the secondary legislation derived from the constitutional energy bill that came into force on December 21st, 2013, and on October ... Read more...

Healthcare Transparency Reporting - driving informed choice or a road to know(where)?

By Colin Loveday, Alexandra Rose & Richard Abraham , Posted: 10th December 2014 09:13
Even some of the harshest critics of the life sciences industry recognise that there is a legitimate role to be played by healthcare professionals engaging with industry and, that such engagement and communication of ideas and experience can lead to better patient outcomes.  However, there is an increasing global trend requiring life science companies to publically disclose payments or be ... Read more...

The Importance of Affiliation to Professional Bodies

By Maggie Ramage, Posted: 28th November 2014 08:45
I have been active in the field of trade marks since 1982, and am a past President of the UK Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys.  I still sit on the governing Council of ITMA.  This means that I can look inside a membership professional association and can see things both from the inside looking out, as well as from the outside looking in.   Ther ... Read more...

The South African Pharmaceutical Sector

By Alexic Apostolidis, Posted: 17th November 2014 09:25
The South African Pharmaceutical sector is a hotbed of change, in particular the patent law landscape.  The demand for change is driven, largely, by activist organisations, both local and international, who have painted a picture to the effect that it is the South African patent system that is responsible for stifling access to drugs.  As the drive to influence policy and law con ... Read more...

Is India’s E-Commerce Industry Too Regulated for Foreign Investment?

By Samuel Wrest, Posted: 13th November 2014 08:33
India’s e-commerce industry has received praise and condemnation in equal measures this week. Foreign spending, spearheaded by Japanese firm Softbank’s US $627 million investment in SnapDeal, has led experts to predict that the sector’s shares and market size will soon see a massive hike, but the news has been offset by heavy criticism of the way in which the ... Read more...

Vietnam-U.S. Relationship Shows Continued Signs of Improvement, TPP Progressing

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Posted: 3rd November 2014 08:44
HCMC – Recent high-level government meetings have confirmed that Vietnam and the United States are continuing to strengthen their bilateral relations.  Among the important agreements are trade deals such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the removal of a US arms embargo.  In 2015, the two countries will celebrate their 20th anniversary of ... Read more...

Defending Business in Paris

29th October 2014 09:13
Paris isn’t all palaces and galleries – it’s got a cutting edge business district to rival all of its peers, as Caxton FX reveals in looking at La Défense...   When we’re asked to picture the ... Read more...

The Risks that will shape the Monetisation Strategy for Uganda’s Oil Assets

By James Reginald Karama, Posted: 28th October 2014 09:02
Now that Uganda has confirmed oil reserves, the focus moves to the monetisation strategy.  Initial estimates indicate that the project will require over USD 10 billion; a significant investment for Uganda by any measure.  Oil investments are long term, and project sponsors will require a higher level of political and economic stability.  The key project sponsors (governm ... Read more...

Vietnam-U.S. Relationship Shows Continued Signs of Improvement, TPP Progressing

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Posted: 27th October 2014 09:07
HCMC – Recent high-level government meetings have confirmed that Vietnam and the United States are continuing to strengthen their bilateral relations.  Among the important agreements are trade deals such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the removal of a US arms embargo.  In 2015, the two countries will celebrate their 20th anniversary of ... Read more...

How Leasing Cars Can Benefit Your Business

24th October 2014 08:57
Many companies require their employees to have the use of a vehicle, whether you’re running a courier business, or have many mobile members of staff. Whatever your business type, if you’re running a fleet, small or large, you may find that leasing works out far better than actually purchasing your vehicles outright, and this is down to a lot of different factors. Here are some ... Read more...

Sort out your dodgy boss: workplace tips

23rd October 2014 10:05
You all know what a dodgy boss looks like – the type of person who smokes cigars indoors, wears a wife-beater vest to work and cackles with extra dollops of spittle as they watch someone trip over a loose wire or work slavish levels of overtime. Alright, they might not be quite so caricatured. But a bad boss can be just as villainous in their own subtle way. Wh ... Read more...

UK Government to impose 15% tax increase on off-shore gaming companies

22nd October 2014 09:07
Online gaming companies who have a UK based customer field but are based off-shore are set to face an increase in tax, with a new levy coming into fruition from December.  As it currently stands, gaming companies’ taxes are based on where they are geographically registered, rather than the location of their customer base, but this new legislation drawn together by the government ... Read more...

What Does it Mean to Be Lean?

21st October 2014 08:49
Three years ago, entrepreneur Eric Ries came up with the idea of the lean start-up. This is a business that attempts to keep its go-to-market plan as short and simple as possible, meaning it can act quickly and maximise profits. It’s now a term that many businesses are applying to their activities, whether they’re a start-up or not. It’s the latest trend in the corpor ... Read more...

Make your business an internet player

17th October 2014 09:18
Back in the 90s, the most you had to do to become a successful internet entrepreneur was create a site with a moving pixel, instantly become a media darling and watch the money roll in. Soon, your pixel became two pixels and you were able to fill your bathtub with cash, diving into it like Scrooge McDuck. Now, however, the landscape of the net has changed dramatically. With hundreds o ... Read more...

Why Use a Virtual Office?

16th October 2014 08:59
Virtual offices are all the rage among small businesses these days, and with good reason. There are a lot of benefits that they offer over a traditional bricks and mortar office. They certainly aren’t right for everyone, but they’re a brilliant alternative if you don’t think you absolutely need real premises. Simply, a virtual office is one which has a re ... Read more...

BPO in the Philippines Could Jumpstart Economic Growth

By Edward Barbour-Lacey, Posted: 15th October 2014 09:04
The month of August saw an all-time high for employment in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector in the Philippines, hitting over one million employees.  Growth in employment is being primarily driven by the expansion plans of a ... Read more...

How the Emergence of Online Estate Agents and Service Providers has Impacted on Home Owners

14th October 2014 09:16
Even now that the global economy is in a state of continuing recovery, it is fair to say that nothing has quite been the same since the Great Recession. This stands to reason, as the single greatest financial crisis in living memory is bound to have left its legacy and cha ... Read more...

Moving to London: How to Execute a Seamless Transition

9th October 2014 08:37
While the current economic climate is extremely conducive to business success, the elite band of commercially minded individuals who operate as solo entrepreneurs must strive hard to achieve long-term success. With consumer confidence remaining volatile as housing market growth begins to cool, it is increasingly import ... Read more...

State Aid: The Decision Issued By Commission Regarding Public Support To Airports And Airlines In Italy

By Maurizio Corain, Posted: 8th October 2014 08:50
Further to the guidelines on how Member States can support airports and airlines with regards to EU state aid rules issued by Commission on 20 February 2014, EU is focused on ensuring good connections between regions and the mobility of European citizens, while minimising distortions of competition in the Single Market.    In order to reach this goal, EU ... Read more...

Technological Convergence under Colombian Telecommunications Regulation

By Tomás Calderón-Mejía, Posted: 2nd October 2014 08:46
In 2009, the Colombian Congress enacted Law 1341 on which it created a new regulatory framework for telecommunications in Colombia in an era of telecommunications convergence, under which multiple telecommunications services can be provided through a single network.  The former regulation framework contained in Decree Law 1900 of 1990 set forth a different regul ... Read more...

Enhancing A Brand In The Digital Age: What Every Brand Owner Should Know

By Ben Hitchens & John Olsen, Posted: 26th September 2014 08:45
The birth of the Internet heralded the dawn of a new digital era, forcing brand owners to re-evaluate their business models in light of increased competition and new opportunities for growth arising through e-commerce.  While commercially beneficial, those opportunities presented novel legal challenges for rights holders, necessitating an increasingly proactive approach to the maintenance ... Read more...

Asia’s Emerging Manufacturing Hot Spots

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 22nd September 2014 09:49
In this edition of China Outbound, we review the key factors fueling several Asian countries’ development as ideal locations for manufacturing operations in the coming years. With growing FDI into the ASEAN bloc, the region is poised to absorb China’s exodus of low-end manufacturing, with ... Read more...

Vietnam Shows Improvement in Global Competitiveness Report

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 18th September 2014 10:24
Vietnam rose two spots in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Competitiveness Report 2014–2015. The country now ranks 68th out of 144 countries. The WEF Competitiveness Report is the most comprehensive assessment of national competitiveness worldwide and “assesses the competitiveness landscape of 144 economies, providing insight into the ... Read more...

Xi’s Visit to India & Sri Lanka Promises Infrastructure, Shipping & Tourism

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th September 2014 09:02
India is in the spotlight following the decision to cancel the Pakistan leg of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s South Asia tour to India and Sri Lanka. In an unusual move, China postponed Xi’s visit to Pakistan, one of China’s closes allies, due to political uncertainty in Islamabad. This puts on hold the development of proposed trade corridors between Xinjiang and Paki ... Read more...

How Post-Secondary Education Effects Your Career

10th September 2014 08:49
The advance in technology has potentiated increased enrollment into many institutions of higher learning. There tends to be a correlation between inadequate technological education and a soaring “skill gap” in the modern labor market. As a result, post-secondary education is designed to prepare graduates with work ethics and other work-related skills, aimed at bridging the wide ... Read more...

The Singapore Business Advantage

27th August 2014 11:02
Singapore possesses one of the most open economies for international trade and investment.  Foreign investors have often lauded Singapore’s pro-business environment, modern infrastructure, highly educated and skilled labour force and robust economic and legal system.  Singapore is often considered the “heart of Asia” for international corporations lo ... Read more...

Foreign Ministers Rekindle Interest in EU-ASEAN FTA

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th August 2014 09:08
  Foreign ministers attending the 20th EU-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Brussels last week have raised the possibility of resuming negotiations for an EU-ASEAN free trade agreement (FTA) once the ASEAN Economic Community comes into effect at the end of 2015.   ASEAN and the EU originally launched negotiations f ... Read more...

“Informatization” Spreads to SMEs in China

By Emily Liu, Posted: 14th August 2014 09:03
Investing in the internet stands to bring immense economic and productivity gains for China, and accelerate its economic restructuring towards a consumer-driven, innovation-intensive economy, according to a Mckinsey Global Institute report. China’s internet economy has been on a strong upward trajectory, growing to 4.4 percent of GDP in 2013, on par with the ratio of most advanced econom ... Read more...

Managing the Pitfall of Talent Strategy

By Oliver Kamakura, Daniel Catelan & Julia Herrmann, Posted: 7th August 2014 08:55
The fact that Brazilian market has bounced back from the 2008/09 global economic downturn more readily than other economies, and that the new domestic economic middle class has been pushing the consume levels more than ever before is having a fundamental effect on organisations’ business models.  Companies are struggling to extend their market reach in order to feed these new de ... Read more...

E-Commerce Heats Up as Amazon, Flipkart Raise Stakes

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 6th August 2014 09:00
DELHI – After Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart raised US$1 billion in fresh funding on Tuesday, Amazon has announced it will invest a further US$2 billion to boost its India-based operations. “We see huge potential in the Indian economy and for the growth of e-commerce in India,” said Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. &ldqu ... Read more...

Samsung to Aid Vietnam in the Creation of Domestic Support Industries

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 4th August 2014 08:44
HCMC – The South Korean electronics group Samsung has agreed to cooperate with the Vietnamese government in order to help develop the country’s domestic support industries. Of particular note is the Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE) who will also partner with Samsung during this period of cooperation. Specifically, VAFIE will ... Read more...

Riots At Sports Events – Does A Club Have The Right To Apply Physical Force To Prevent Damage?

By Dr. András Gurovits, Posted: 1st August 2014 08:45
In conjunction with riots by rioting "fans" before, during and after a sports event, there are regularly calls for the organiser to be held responsible for the financial consequences.  In this short article, it is shown that it needs to be differentiated whether a person comes to harm outside or inside the stadium.   The organiser can s ... Read more...

Foreign Firms Dominate Vietnam's Advertising Market

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 28th July 2014 10:07
HCMC – Foreign advertising companies have taken control of the Vietnamese market, reaping millions of dollars in revenue every year. According to statistics, over 90 percent of advertising revenue in Vietnam is now in the hands of foreign advertising firms. These firms have been on a buying spree of local companies and now own around 80 percent of Vietnam’s advertising firms.&l ... Read more...

New Regulatory Framework For Renewables In Spain

By Francisco Solchaga, Posted: 23rd July 2014 09:10
Past policies regarding renewable energies have been very successful in Spain, permitting a significant development of such technologies, making Spain one of the global leaders in this field.  However, in recent years, due to the economic crisis and tariff deficit, a period of regulatory and legal uncertainty commenced, characterised by continuous legislative changes.  These chan ... Read more...

Vietnam: Asia's Best Sourcing Destination

By Alberto Vettoretti, Posted: 16th July 2014 09:30
There are a number of key advantages that make Vietnam stand out from the rest of Asia. Unlike many other countries in the region, Vietnam’s government is very stable and committed to seeing the country grow. Consumer confidence is strong and improving. Additionally, domestic consumption is predicted to increase 20 percent per year, thus creating a strong local market for foreign product ... Read more...

Mining Industry Challenges in Indonesia

By Dr. Mohamed Idwan (‘Kiki’) Ganie, Posted: 27th June 2014 09:30
Processing   Implementation   Indonesia finally implemented the Law No. 4 of 2009 on Mineral and Coal Mining (“Mining Law”)’s raw mineral export restriction in early 2014 through Government Regulation ... Read more...

A Few Ways In Which The Financial Services Industry Can Utilise Social Media

By Webb Ward, Posted: 26th June 2014 09:08
For the financial services industry, today there are more ways than ever before to promote their deals and campaigns.  They are now exploring the social media platform to facilitate deals and secure the trust of customers.  However, it has been opined that the industry has been rather slow to adapt to the quickly evolving digital landscape.  Ben Mott, the client services ... Read more...

Logistics, Warehousing and Transportation in China

By Matthew J. Zito, Posted: 25th June 2014 09:17
China, the world’s second largest economy and third largest country by area, is experiencing insatiable demand for transportation and logistics services—so much so that dedicated service providers are struggling to keep up, causing some of China’s biggest retailers to strike out on their own with in-house logistics arms. In  ... Read more...

Breakthrough & Change Of Paradigms: A Liberalised Mexican Energy Industry

By Rogelio Lopez-Velarde & Jorge Jimenez, Posted: 23rd June 2014 08:58
Mexico is undergoing a dramatic change of paradigms in its energy industry as a whole.  It is no minor task, considering it continues to be the largest sector of its economy, the contributor of 35% of the federal budget and a high producing player in the international energy market.    Three pivotal changes represent a dramatic turn in the secto ... Read more...

China and India Meet to Strengthen Economic Cooperation Following Modi's Election

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 20th June 2014 09:25
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi has met with leading Indian officials to discuss ways to improve bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation in key areas including trade and investment. Wang Yi first met with Sushma Swaraj, the Indian Minister of external affairs, for a meeting which lasted more than three hours on Sunday, marking the first high-level meeting between India and Chi ... Read more...

Exclusive Q&A On Aviation Law

By Fabio Gamba, Posted: 19th June 2014 09:26
Q) Have there been any recent regulatory changes or interesting developments in your jurisdiction? There has been an opinion made apparent lately from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) with respect to the way traffic rights are exercised in Europe. In particular, the Court opined on the question of the procedure of non-objection an ... Read more...

Cambodia-Malaysia Trade Grows Nearly 20 Percent in First Quarter of 2014

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th June 2014 09:04
Bilateral trade between Cambodia and Malaysia during the first quarter of 2014 was up by 17.6 percent compared to the first quarter of 2013, a Malaysian official announced this week. Two-way trade amounted to US$105.4 million in the first three months of this year, compared to a value of US$89.63 million during the same period last year. Trade between the two countries w ... Read more...

Removal of Licensing Requirements for Foreign-Invested Advertising Agencies in Shanghai FTZ

By Kate Wang, Posted: 11th June 2014 09:05
On September 26, 2013, China’s State Administration of Industry and Commerce (State AIC) issued “Suggestions on Supporting the Construction of the Shanghai Free Trade Zone (FTZ)” (Suggestions) which, among other things, removed certain restrictions regarding the establishment of foreign-invested advertising enterprise in the Zone as stipulated under the Administrative ... Read more...

Structuring LNG Export Projects

By Philip R. Weems, King & Spalding, Posted: 10th June 2014 09:15
LNG is not yet traded as a commodity in the way that oil is traded (with oil development and production preceding its marketing).  Prior to the participants in an LNG export project agreeing to take FID to construct the necessary trains and associated facilities, all or a very high percentage of the train’s expected production will have to have been sold on a long-term basis (us ... Read more...

The East is Green: The Future of China's Environmental Regime

By Matthew Zito, Posted: 9th June 2014 09:29
SHANGHAI – In the month since China announced the first revisions to its 1989 Environmental Protection Law, the Revised Law‘s implications have been closely studied by policy analysts, media outlets, and foreign investors alike, with signs that this watershed moment in the history of environmental regulation in China m ... Read more...

Oil & Gas Q&A with Nick Davis & Bree Taylor – Memery Crystal LLP

6th June 2014 09:17
In this Q&A Nick Davis and Bree Taylor of Memery Crystall LLP, analyse the current trends, challenges and opportunities facing the Oil & Gas sector.   Nick Davis is a Corporate Partner and heads the firm’s Natural Resources Team and recently acted for Gulf Keystone Petroleum Limited on its move from AIM to the Main Market. Bree Taylor is ... Read more...

China Energy Label: Licensing Requirements for Foreign Importers

Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 4th June 2014 08:52
SHANGHAI – In recent years, energy efficiency has become a greater focus of Chinese product regulations. The China Energy Label (CEL) is a system of compulsory certification for specified electronic devices, and is equivalent to the EU Energy Label. Introduced in 2005 under the Measures for the Administration of Energy Efficiency Labels, CEL places products in one of five classes of ener ... Read more...

What next for the UK housing market?

29th May 2014 09:06
The UK housing market comes in for a huge amount of attention and press coverage in the country. It seems that house prices have become something of a national obsession and this isn’t surprising; house prices have a huge effect on the overall economy of the UK. And the ripples in the corporate sector are felt far more widely than in the obvious areas like house-builders etc. Directly co ... Read more...

New and Old Rules in Food Labelling & Marketing: How Many Laps Left?

By Ariela Agosin Weisz & Nelson Campos Pereira, Posted: 26th May 2014 09:04
Ready, set, go!   On December 17, 2013, former Chilean President Sebastián Piñera, along with his Education and Health Ministries, announced the publication of the Food Labelling Law (N° 20606 of 2012) Rules, which specified the applicability, administrative measures, deadlines to ada ... Read more...

China’s Tech Industry Booms as Alibaba Files for Initial Public Offering

Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 21st May 2014 09:50
SHANGHAI – Last Tuesday, e-commerce conglomerate Alibaba Group Holdings Ltd. filed their initial public offering (IPO) prospectus, aiming to become listed on either the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq. According to Reuters, the potential debut of Alibaba on the U.S. stock exchange market has generated much attention among Silicon Valley and Wall Street investors. China’s onli ... Read more...

Managing Growth

By Tyrone Courtman, Posted: 19th May 2014 09:12
The Budget 2014 reminded us all that growth appears to be finally taking root in UK the economy and at last, for those in business, there now appears to be some light at the end of the six year austerity tunnel.  Nothing dramatic, but at least it looks as if growth is finally back!  Albeit economic output still remains below the levels we were enjoying pre September 2008.&nbs ... Read more...

Cutting the Cost of Your Business Insurance

By Webb Ward, Posted: 15th May 2014 09:36
It’s not cheap to run a business.  From the cost of premises to staff wages, even the smallest of companies can result in a huge hole in a business owner’s bank balance.  For new companies these costs tend to be compounded, as most companies won’t turn a profit in their first year and some remain in this state for two years or more. & ... Read more...

Vietnam Online – Understanding Vietnam’s E-commerce Market

By Edward Barbour-Lacey and Fabio Zaca, Posted: 9th May 2014 09:10
HANOI – Vietnam, like much of Asia, has a growing middle class which, in-turn, is spawning a strong consumer culture. Within the country, e-commerce is fast becoming the preferred method of shopping, particularly among the young. According to Vietnam’s E-commerce and Information Technology Agency (VECITA), by 2015, e-commerce sales will amount to more ... Read more...

Competition in India’s E-Commerce Market Intensifies Amidst Elections

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 29th April 2014 10:07
Online retail giant Amazon.com has announced it is now selling clothing and accessories on its India website alongside the introduction of new streamlined delivery initiatives, raising the stakes for other online retailers vying to capture a larger share of India’s growing e-commerce market. “With a vast selection of fashion, jewelry, watches, beauty ... Read more...

An Overview of China’s Retail Industry

By Eunice Ku, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 24th April 2014 09:42
Changing Consumer Market Moving towards a consumption – and service – focused economic model Underpinned by the steady rise of household income, China’s retail market has become one of the most lucrative and rapidly growing in the world. China is currently the world ... Read more...

Leveraging India to Sell More China Manufactured Products

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 14th April 2014 09:09
The dynamics between China and India have long been one of Asia’s more fascinating relationships. Both are vast countries with similar population sizes. Both are ancient cultures, and have long had significant impact upon the development and shape of the modern world over their centuries of existence. Yet they can also appear mysterious, impenetrably exotic and inscrutable for the foreig ... Read more...

Outsourcing in Ukraine

By Oleg Mishyn, Posted: 9th April 2014 09:00
Outsourcing can be defined as transferring some of a company’s business activities to third parties.  And when these third parties are located in a different country, outsourcing takes the form of offshoring.  But why do companies choose to outsource instead of working with in-house specialists?  Well, there are quite a few reasons why the benefits of outsourci ... Read more...

Using Best Practices in Environmental Compliance to Augment Brand & Increase Sales

By Webb Ward, Posted: 7th April 2014 08:45
Claims of reduced environmental impact enhance a consumer's assessment of any product in the market.  There is increased acceptance in today’s organisations that adopting green policies like minimising the use of resources and reducing carbon footprint contribute to increased ... Read more...

Food & Agriculture Q&A

With Timothy H. Turner - Kings Road Advisory, Posted: 27th March 2014 08:48
Timothy H. Turner is an expert in Food & Agriculture in the United States, with clients including US operations of leading global dairy, and in this Q&A he talks us through everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve. Can you summarise the main laws relating to food and agriculture in your jurisdiction? ... Read more...

Asia's Improving PMI Performance Against China The New Normal

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 10th March 2014 08:48
China manufacturing contracting, Asia expanding as regional demographic changes kick in   HSBC’s “Purchasing Managers Index” (PMI) this month has raised a number of issues, not least the continuing Chi ... Read more...

Keeping Morale High as Real Wages Fall

By Webb Ward, Posted: 5th March 2014 08:47
With a recent report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showing that the average earnings of full-time workers in the United Kingdom has dropped back to 2002 levels, there has never been a more important time to concentrate on keeping morale high amongst staff members. The figures show that while, in cash terms, earnings grew by 2% each year between 2009 and 2 ... Read more...

The Future of Business Relies on Cloud Computing

By Webb Ward, Posted: 28th February 2014 08:48
Cloud computing has been hailed as an IT game changer with the agility of cloud infrastructures being able to dramatically reduce the cost of business failings. Now entrepreneurs can re-invent their business models in a way they haven’t been able to in over 10 years. For those who are unclear about what exactly cloud computing is; it’s the practice of ... Read more...

Government Clarifies FDI Policy in Insurance Sector

By Dezan Shira and Associates, Posted: 24th February 2014 08:59
In a press release yesterday the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) clarified that the existing 26 percent cap on foreign investments in the insurance sector also applies to intermediaries such as brokers, third party administrators and surveyors. The official press release from the DIPP ... Read more...

Office Premise Requirements for WFOE, FICE and RO Registration in China

By Dezan Shira and Associates, Posted: 20th February 2014 09:03
To register a foreign-invested enterprise (FIE) or a representative office (RO) in China, it is a prerequisite to own or lease an office premise (as the place of business). The State Administration of Industry and Commerce (AIC) requires proof of a place of business for the registration of all FIEs. As such, the FIE must possess all legal documents pertaining to the premise as required b ... Read more...

UK Motor Manufacturing Hits New Six Year High

By Webb Ward, Posted: 17th February 2014 08:18
The UK economy has been on a tear.  Growth across all sectors is up.  Manufacturing is on the way back, and much of its growth as a sector of the economy can be attributed to the UK’s motor manufacturers.  2013 was a standout year for them.   Car production across the industry surpassed 1.5 million units in 2013, an increase o ... Read more...

Rising Global Defense Spending: Asia Pacific’s Outlook

By Shawn Greene, Posted: 13th February 2014 08:42
For the first time in five years, worldwide defense spending will increase according to IHS Jane’s Annual Defence Budgets Review.   According to the forecast, China is on track to outspend the UK, France and Germany combined by 2015, and Asia Pacific remains the only region with a steady increase in defense expenditures fro ... Read more...

China Set To Lose Foxconn to Indonesia

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 3rd February 2014 09:26
Reuters has reported that Taiwan’s Foxconn Technology Group, the major supplier of Apple’s iPhones and iPads, is set to relocate their high-end manufacturing to the United States and low-end manufacturing to Indonesia. As manufacturing prices in China rises, and labor unrest increases, Foxconn is looking to diversify its supply chain.   During ... Read more...

Patent Enforcement In The Life Sciences Sector In South Africa – Quo Vadis?

By Alexis Apostolidis, Posted: 31st January 2014 09:12
The dynamics of the pharmaceutical market in South Africa and the pharmaceutical patent enforcement landscape is changing rapidly, especially in the light of recent developments towards the end of 2013 with a new Draft National Intellectual Property Policy.   Some of the reasons for the change stems from a greater need to provide access to medicine, often times b ... Read more...

Abuse of dominance in pharmaceutical products cases concerning parallel trade: should the Lelos decision of 2008 be revisited in the present Greek era?

By Despina Samara, Posted: 29th January 2014 08:43
In 2001, following complaints of 16 associations of pharmacists, the Pan-Hellenic Association of pharmaceutical warehouses, the Pan-Hellenic Association of pharmaceutical wholesalers and 41 pharmaceuticals wholesalers against the policy applied by GlaxoSmithKline SA and its parent company for the distribution system of three of its pharmaceutical products in Greece.  The legality of a dom ... Read more...

Legal Developments In the Pharmaceutical Sector In Europe

By Catherine Mateu, Posted: 27th January 2014 09:39
The past year was quite dense with regards to international protection of pharmaceutical products in Europe, with several crucial rulings from the European Court of Justice on referrals from member states jurisdictions.    Starting with a regional point of view, on July 18 2013 (C-414/11), the European Court of Justice ruled that TRIPs provisions regardi ... Read more...

Recent Issues Concerning The Pharmaceutical Industry In Argentina

By Drs. Emilio Vogelius & Ana Andrés, Posted: 20th January 2014 09:34
As you no doubt already know, the Pharmaceutical Industry in Argentina is a strictly controlled industry.  Said control is held by the ANMAT (Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica) and it spreads from the first authorisation of a laboratory to act as such in the country, moving through the authorisation ... Read more...

Legal Aspects of the 3D Printing Revolution

By Mark Schonfeld, Posted: 6th January 2014 09:24
Until recently, the manufacturer of an object required a factory for mass production, a substantial investment in equipment, inventory and materials, and a brick-and-mortar retail site to sell product.  All this has changed with the advent of 3D printing.  This disruptive technology will change the way we live because it will enable consumers and small businesses to manufacture p ... Read more...

Foreigner Participation in China’s Social Insurance System

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 2nd December 2013 08:42
China’s Social Insurance Law provides that foreigners working in the country are required to participate in the national social insurance scheme. In September 2011, the MHRSS further promulgated the Interim Measures for Participation in the Social Insurance System by Foreigners Working within the Territory of China (Interim Measures), which became effective on October 15, 2011 and laid o ... Read more...

Looking For A Career Change - Help Is On Hand

By Jonathan Curran, Posted: 19th November 2013 09:42
Over 80% of us are unhappy in our jobs - according to Deloitte’s Shift Index Survey.  The average American changes job 10 - 15 times between the ages of 18 and 45 years old according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ... Read more...

Foreigner Participation in China’s Social Insurance System

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 18th November 2013 08:35
China’s Social Insurance Law provides that foreigners working in the country are required to participate in the national social insurance scheme. In September 2011, the MHRSS further promulgated the Interim Measures for Participation in the Social Insurance System by Foreigners Working within the Territory of China (Interim Measures), which became effective on October 15, 2011 and laid o ... Read more...

Atomic Lithuania - To Be Or Not To Be?

By Aistija Zubaviciute, Posted: 14th November 2013 14:47
Over the last 20 years, Lithuania has faced a challenging time in regards to central planning and the market economy.  Energy is the blood of the economy.  Three years have passed since the exploitation of the last 1500 MW block of Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) was stopped.  The largest and cheapest generator in the region, it was producing 80% of the country&ls ... Read more...

China Passes U.S. to Become World’s Top Oil Importer

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 7th November 2013 14:17
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, last month China imported more oil than any other country in the world, including the United States. China had to import 6.30 million more barrels of oil than it produced domestically, while the United States only imported 6.24 million barrels.   China’s new status will have a number of important ... Read more...

Administrative Measures Released for Shanghai Free Trade Zone

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 31st October 2013 09:15
The Shanghai Municipal People’s Government released the “Administrative Measures for the Shanghai Free Trade Zone (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Measures’)” on September 29, which list out the administrative measures for the Shanghai Free Trade Zone (Shanghai FTZ) in the following four areas:   In ... Read more...

Vietnam’s Airline Industry Takes Off

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 30th October 2013 09:18
According to the International Air Transport Association, over the next year Vietnam should become the world’s third-fastest growing market for international passengers and freight. It will also be the second-fastest growing market for domestic passengers.   In addition, Vietnam’s Department of Aviation has predicted that the country will see ... Read more...

China Passes U.S. to Become World’s Top Oil Importer

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 28th October 2013 09:04
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, last month China imported more oil than any other country in the world, including the United States. China had to import 6.30 million more barrels of oil than it produced domestically, while the United States only imported 6.24 million barrels.   China’s new status will have a number of important ... Read more...

EETC: The Next Generation of Debt Financing for Airlines around the Globe?

By Mehtap Cevher Conti, Posted: 25th October 2013 09:09
Through the use of enhanced equipment trust certificates (“EETCs”), some non-U.S. airlines have recently been able to access the U.S. capital markets as a source of fairly inexpensive capital to finance their fleet expansions.  The EETC structure has in effect allowed non-U.S. airlines to obtain financing from a group of U.S. investors that may not otherwise be seeking ... Read more...

Investment in Renewable Energy in Lithuania and Other Baltic States: Legislative Update

By Vilius Bernatonis & Jelena Piatina - Tark Grunte Sutkiene , Posted: 23rd October 2013 09:07
Renewable energy generation projects have been attractive for small to medium scale investments in the Baltic States for the past several years.  The countries are seeking to meet their 2020 energy mix targets and have continuously supported renewable energy generation.  Generous support through feed-in tariffs and comparable structures has been granted to wind power, biomass hea ... Read more...

Costs of Running a WFOE in China

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 21st October 2013 08:55
WFOEs are considered resident enterprises in China and, just as other domestic companies, their profits are subject to corporate income tax (CIT), which is generally 25 percent. Businesses generally also pay either business tax (BT) or value-added tax (VAT), depending on the nature of the business. Only in special circumstances are both taxes paid. BT is imposed on the provision of taxable service ... Read more...

India Develops Information Technology Investment Region

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 18th October 2013 08:45
Hyderabad is soon to be home to a new Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) following last week’s approval by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs for new ITIR developments.   The ITIR, which will include special economic zones and industrial parks, is expected to become a key information technology hub in the region and will focus on acc ... Read more...

Using Vietnam to Target the Emerging ASEAN Region

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 17th October 2013 08:54
Boasting more than half a billion people, abundant natural resources, and a strategic geographical location, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has the potential to become a leading global economic force in the near future.   Growing at an annual rate of 5 percent over the past decade, the ASEAN region – made up of Brunei, Cambodia, Indo ... Read more...

Franchise Law Q&A

With David L. Cahn – Whiteford Taylor & Preston L.L.P., Posted: 10th October 2013 09:14
Can you summarise the advantages and disadvantages of franchising for both the franchisor and franchisee?   For the franchisor, an advantage is obtaining a steady stream of revenue over a period of time without having to assume the same level of risk as expanding the business through other methods, such as purchasing or leasing assets ... Read more...

The Partnership of Personal Health & Business

By Alan Starc, Posted: 3rd October 2013 08:37
When someone outlines a business plan, they rarely take into account the importance of making a reality check of his or her personal health before going on with their plans.  You can have the best business idea in mind and the working capital to carry it out.  However, if your health condition is poor or you are prone to illness for no reason at all, it is time to stop for a mome ... Read more...

India Develops Information Technology Investment Region

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 2nd October 2013 09:16
Hyderabad is soon to be home to a new Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) following last week’s approval by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs for new ITIR developments.   The ITIR, which will include special economic zones and industrial parks, is expected to become a key information technology hub in the region and will focus on acc ... Read more...

Sourcing From & Selling To India

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th September 2013 08:09
As India’s total merchandise trade tripled from US$252 billion in 2006 to US$794 billion last year, the business of import/export with Indian firms has become much more popular. However, the rising monetary numbers have brought with them an increasing number of legal and administrative reforms and considerations for import/export-related businesses.   I ... Read more...

Franchise Law Q&A with Harold Kestenbaum – Gordon & Rees LLP

13th September 2013 09:17
How do you assess whether a business has franchise potential?   There are many factors that we asses to determine franchiseability.  The first is whether the business is a viable one.  A business that loses money or that cannot make a profit is not going to be a model that anyone would be interested in owning; we loo ... Read more...

China to Crack Down on Use of Hong Kong Shelf Companies?

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 12th September 2013 08:31
ChinaWhys scandal could impact upon use of shelf companies with no Hong Kong assets   A result of part of the investigation into the ChinaWhys scandal and the continuing incarceration of the company’s directors in China could be a shift in attitude towards the use of shelf companies in Hong Kong to hold China assets. As part of the ... Read more...

Singapore to Deepen Bilateral Relationship with China

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 4th September 2013 08:56
Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Long embarked on a week-long official visit to China earlier this week upon the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.   During the visit, China stated its eagerness to review and continue improving its free trade agreement (FTA) with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). In turn, Singapore has pledged its sup ... Read more...

World's Leading Financial & Trusts Centres

By Francis Hoogewerf FCA, Posted: 3rd September 2013 10:15
Introduction   Luxembourg is a small country situated in the very heart of Europe and whose influence should not be underestimated.  Having borders with France, Germany and Belgium Luxembourg provides a high skilled multilingual workforce, high quality of services and sound basis for business activity.  Luxembourg is ... Read more...

India and China’s Retail Industries Compared

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 27th August 2013 10:45
According to the 2013 Global Retail Development Index (GRDI), a study by the management consulting firm A.T. Kearney, China ranks fourth globally for retail development. Meanwhile, India’s retail development ranking fell nine spots from the 2012 GRDI to fourteenth overall after experiencing backlash from the global economic slowdown. A comparison of India and China’s retail sec ... Read more...

Import and Export Licensing Procedures in India

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th August 2013 10:17
India’s import and export system is governed by the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act of 1992 and India’s Export Import (EXIM) Policy. Imports and exports of all goods are free, except for the items regulated by the EXIM policy or any other law currently in force. Registration with regional licensing authority is a prerequisite for the import and export of go ... Read more...

The Failure of the Carbon Market

By Mónica Carneiro Pacheco, Posted: 13th August 2013 08:29
The Macondo disaster in April 2010, the accident in the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station in March 2011 following the earthquake that shocked Japan, and the European/U.S. embargo on oil from Iran in 2012, have changed the driving forces of the energy sector worldwide.    All these factors, in conjunction with the current European debt crisis and the critic ... Read more...

China’s E-Commerce Legislative and Regulatory Framework

By Shirley Zhang, Yao Lu and Eunice Ku, Posted: 12th August 2013 08:12
In 2012, the number of China’s internet users rose by 10 percent to 564 million, and its e-commerce market increased by 66.5 percent to RMB1.3 trillion (US$190 billion) worth of transactions. These transactions accounted for 6.1 percent of total retail sales of consumer goods that year, compared to 5 percent in the United States. Further, 242 million internet users in China purchased goo ... Read more...

Payday Loans: Is Avoiding Late Fees that Difficult?

By Alan Starc, Posted: 7th August 2013 10:00
means of financing.  In the United States, most of the people avail the aid of short term financing in a bid to pay off important utility bills, rent etc.  However the pay back process is quite expensive, and involves high chances of borrowers being caught in a debt trap.  Most of the time it has been seen that borrowers are either grappling with interests or late fees.& ... Read more...

Hong Kong Now Allowed to Sign Standalone Tax Information Exchange Agreements

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 6th August 2013 10:06
The Legislative Council of Hong Kong recently passed the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill 2013 (hereinafter referred to as the “Bill”) on July 10, which will enable Hong Kong to directly enter into tax information exchange agreements (TIEAs) with other jurisdictions. The Bill also enhances and makes more efficient the exchange of information related to all of Hong Kong&rsquo ... Read more...

Developing Mining Projects in a Changing Legal Framework

By Yves Baratte & Simon Ratledge, Posted: 25th July 2013 10:26
Reform is once again a marked feature in the global landscape of mining regulation.  To name but a few- in Gabon, the approval by Cabinet in March 2013 of changes to the 2000 mining code, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the on-going proposal to amend the mining code of 2002 (said to be the most modern African mining code of its time drafted with the support of the World Bank), ... Read more...

Independent Contractors in China and Available Alternative Options

By Eunice Ku & Adam Livermore, Posted: 24th July 2013 10:06
It is not (as has been suggested elsewhere online) illegal to use independent contractors in China, however, care must be taken when assessing the relevant employment law. Engaging independent contractors can be a useful strategy for foreign investors in China, especially when involved in specific project work that does not call on the need for permanent workers. The use of them can essentially be ... Read more...

Swashbuckling, Shipping and Superyachts

By Clive Dixon, Posted: 23rd July 2013 10:43
Historically what did private equity and traditional Shipping have in common? The answer is: almost nothing.  But wait, private equity just might be the surprising next big source of capital for the world’s ship owners and operators.   And while we’re on the subject of mismatches, how about superyachts, what do they have to do with pr ... Read more...

Aircraft Registration in Malta

By Dr Michael Tanti-Dougall , Posted: 22nd July 2013 08:38
Aviation Law has a wide spectrum of fascinating areas, and Malta’s main objective is to attract the registrations of aircraft, aware that Malta`s taxation regime provides an excellent platform where aircraft owners could feel confident to register their aircraft in Malta.  Besides favourable taxation treatment to non-residents, Malta offers a wide spectrum of advantages, such as ... Read more...

The Current Status of the Bulgarian Energy & Natural Resources Sector

By Kostadin Sirleshtov & Pavlin Stoyanoff, Posted: 19th July 2013 10:11
The Bulgarian energy sector is a key sector for the development of the country’s economy.  Most of the resources in Bulgaria are imported, mainly from Russia.  The Bulgarian energy sector is primarily comprised of electricity generation and the transmission of gas to foreign markets.    In 2011 the Bulgarian Parliament adopted ... Read more...

Investing in Indonesian Energy & Natural Resources

By Mohamed Idwan Ganie, Posted: 16th July 2013 08:17
Indonesia has been a favourite investment destination of natural resource companies for a significant amount of time, with ample undeveloped resources that span the archipelago being available to this day.  Combined with the growth of Asian manufacturing demand for raw materials in the recent past, in light of Indonesia’s proximity to such manufacturing centres as China, Japan a ... Read more...

Hedging China Manufacturing Through India Just Became Corporate Strategy

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 8th July 2013 08:27
India and Vietnam are becoming increasingly attractive for manufacturing as China costs increase and workforces become aggressive.   The regrettable – and somewhat absurd – instance a few days ago of Chinese workers demanding to be fired in order to gain compensation payments has  ... Read more...

Creating an Enabling Public Private Partnership Environment to Harness Kenya’s Power Potential as a Catalyst to Achieving the Objectives of Vision 2030

By Sonal Sejpal & Aleem Tharani, Posted: 4th July 2013 08:50
Introduction   Kenya’s national development agenda is anchored on the “Kenya Vision 2030” Policy (the Vision 2030 Policy), which aims to create “a globally competitive and prosperous country with a high quality of life by 2030”.  The Vision 2030 Policy has identified power ge ... Read more...

Choosing the Right Sourcing Model in China

By Cory Lam, Posted: 2nd July 2013 08:25
It can often be difficult for companies (particularly those new to China) to decide on the optimal solutions needed to support their mainland sourcing activities. With so many quality control and trading agents available offering one-stop sourcing services and B2B online platforms that allow direct contact with suppliers, many will argue that it could be just as effective to utilize a subcontracti ... Read more...

Vietnam and China Ink Bilateral Trade and Investment Initiatives

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 28th June 2013 08:53
China and Vietnam have signed several bilateral trade and infrastructure agreements during a visit by the Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang to Beijing this week.   This is Vietnam’s first official visit since Premier Li and President Xi took office in China earlier this year. President Sang welcomed the invitation to visit China, saying the two count ... Read more...

Key Sectors for FDI in India: Airports and Ports

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 25th June 2013 08:27
Continuing with our series of key sectors for foreign direct investment (FDI) in India, this article will provide an overview of foreign investment in airports and ports throughout India. As the government prioritizes the development and refurbishment of national infrastructure, investment into India’s airports and ports is an increasingly attractive option for investors looking to tap i ... Read more...

Understanding Development Zones in Asia

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 17th June 2013 08:31
With the success of China’s special economic zone in Shenzhen in the 1980s, development zones across Asia have proliferated as catalysts for economic reform and foreign investment.   While the Shenzhen example originated as an entire city area cordoned off from the rest of China in case the experiment with capitalism went wrong, the concept, while not n ... Read more...

China & Mexico Talk of Strategic Partnership Deal, But Much Remains to be Done

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 12th June 2013 08:58
Chinese President Xi Jinping has been in Mexico the past three days and has been meeting with the Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto ahead of Xi’s much anticipated visit to meet President Barack Obama of the United States. Xi and Peña Nieto, following their meetings, released a statement saying that both were prepared to “take their relationship to a new ... Read more...

An Introduction to Audit in India for Non-Auditors

By Himanshu Joshi, Posted: 10th June 2013 08:32
As an increasing number of foreign invested enterprises (FIEs) in India have been established in recent years, many foreign executives based in India responsible for their company’s operations are not necessarily familiar with the audit process in India. While it may be hard for someone without a background in tax or accounting to be responsible for the financial operations of the compan ... Read more...

China Releases Punishment Standards for Food-Related Crimes

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 7th June 2013 08:35
China’s Supreme People’s Court (SPC) and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate jointly released the “Interpretation on Certain Issues Concerning the Application of Law in Food-Related Criminal Cases (fashi [2013] No.12, hereinafter referred to as the ‘Interpretation’)” on May 2, which came into effect ... Read more...

Singapore Launches RMB Clearing Service

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 5th June 2013 08:26
The Singapore Branch of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) kicked off its RMB clearing service in Singapore on Monday, marking an important step in Singapore’s development as an offshore RMB center. ICBC’s Singapore branch is the first RMB clearing bank designated by China in another country; with Hong Kong and Taiwan previously the only places outs ... Read more...

China Regional Spotlight: Lanzhou, Gansu Province

By Yao Lu, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 20th May 2013 08:49
Lanzhou, once known as the “Golden City,” has been an important regional commercial center and transportation hub since as early as the Han Dynasty. The city used to be a major link on the ancient Silk Road and has played a vital role in the cultural and economic exchange between China and countries to its west throughout Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Today, Lanzhou ... Read more...

China to Enhance Consumer Rights Protection

By Yao Lu, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th May 2013 08:45
China’s Consumer Protection Law, which was promulgated in 1993 came into effect in 1994, has contributed greatly to the protection of consumer rights in the past two decades. However, since the country’s consumption patterns and structures have undergone significant changes in the years since the law’s original release, some provisions of the current Consumer Protecti ... Read more...

General Review of Real Estate Acquisitions in Turkey

3rd May 2013 09:39
Introduction   Real estate acquisitions by foreigners had been a subject matter of some restrictions for a time in Turkey.  In conjunction with Articles 35 and 36 of Land Register Law dated 1935(1), it became possible for foreign real persons to gain the property right of an immovable property under the “principle o ... Read more...

Key Sectors of FDI in India: Roads and Railways

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 1st May 2013 09:33
The Indian government has clearly indicated that infrastructure development remains the nation’s top priority. Recognizing that a steady supply of power along with efficient transport infrastructure will help revive the Indian economy and boost productivity, the government has set up plans to increase gross capital in infrastructure over the next several years to over U ... Read more...

Why should you hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

By Alan Starc, Posted: 23rd April 2013 08:45
Whether you got a serious head injury or you faced a car accident for which you were not responsible, there are many issues to deal with, which may not be possible for you to tackle on your own.  In a situation like this, you might be advised to hire a personal attorney.  There are many individuals who are not quite convinced about the necessity of hiring a personal lawyer and ma ... Read more...

China and Iceland Sign Free Trade Agreement

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 22nd April 2013 08:59
A free trade agreement (FTA) between China and Iceland was signed in Beijing on April 15, witnessed by the Premier of China Li Keqiang and the Prime Minister of Iceland Johanna Sigurdardottir. Iceland is the first European country to enter into an FTA with China.   The China-Iceland FTA covers trade in goods and services, investments, and various other areas. Spe ... Read more...

China’s Demographics Point to India as the Next Global Manufacturing Hub

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 11th April 2013 09:08
China’s rapidly aging population is set to dramatically shrink its workforce and effectively pass the baton to India as the world’s manufacturing hub, according to analysis from Morgan Stanley and the Global Times. China’s famous one child policy, which has allowed China to manage its population over the past three decades, is now finally kicking into China’ ... Read more...

Social Security in Vietnam: Social Insurance

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 9th April 2013 08:50
When operating their business in Vietnam, foreign companies must ensure that they understand the legal framework which provides for the rights and obligations of employers and employees with respect to social security. There are three types of mandatory social security in Vietnam: social insurance, health insurance and unemployment insurance.&l ... Read more...

Establishing a Trading Company in China

By Eunice Ku and Rosario Di Maggio, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 5th April 2013 09:37
When an international company has reached a certain level of success in selling to or trading with China, or simply wants an on-the-ground presence in the country, it is common that a trading company is established in the form of a foreign-invested commercial enterprise (FICE).   The FICE structure has become the most common type of legal entity that foreign inve ... Read more...

The Emergence of Vietnam and India as China Alternatives

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 3rd April 2013 09:13
China is not the only solution for export-driven manufacturing, and Asia’s trade evolution is determining that business models move on for adventures elsewhere.   At the turn of the 21st Century, there were two main schools of commercial thought with regards to China. The most popular was that China represented a massive market to s ... Read more...

China’s Import and Export Licensing Framework

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 28th March 2013 09:16
As China continues to grow and expand, this development is creating increased efficiencies and improved infrastructure benefiting the supply side, as well as higher wealth and disposable income levels for individuals across the country, representing a potential boon for those targeting the demand side. This is translating into exciting opportunities for international business both selling to, and ... Read more...

All Change For European Data Protection Law

By Bridget Treacy, Posted: 20th March 2013 09:19
Information is often the most valuable asset that a business has.   Businesses that think strategically about how they create and develop their information assets are able to increase their value, frequently by substantial amounts.   For example, data analytics can help a business understand its clients, what they are likely to buy - when and how.  Clou ... Read more...

Western China, New Powerhouse for China’s Economy

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 15th March 2013 10:12
With the introduction of China’s “Go West” policy in 1999, the country’s western region entered into period of consistently elevated economic development.   The ‘Go West’ policy covers 12 provinces and cities in the western part of China, namely:   ... Read more...

Vietnam Government Encourages Supporting Industries

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 13th March 2013 09:18
In 2010 and 2011, the Vietnamese Government issued a number of policies to encourage supporting industries, especially those connected to the high-tech sectors (Prime Minister’s Decision No 12/2011/QD-TTg).   Supporting industries play a key role in promoting the development of Vietnam’s main industries. Furthermore, the potential to develop V ... Read more...

Dongguan, the World’s Factory in Transition

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 8th March 2013 09:41
Dongguan, the city known as the “world’s factory” even within China, is home to more than 10,000 foreign-invested enterprises and one of the largest global manufacturing bases. However, 30 years ago the city was just a collection of villages and towns spread out over 2,500 square kilometers on the Pearl River Delta.   Thanks to the & ... Read more...

Expanding Asia: The Growth of Asia’s Internet

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 6th March 2013 09:09
The invention of the internet created an accelerated growth route for countries and companies, transforming the world into a place in which digital connections are just as important as human connections. Despite the internet originating in North America, it has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, rapidly expanding internationally. Thanks to the growing number of fiber-based broadband connections in ... Read more...

Sandbagging & Environmental Issues in Corporate Transactions

By Andrew N. Davis & Jason C. Hillman, Posted: 5th March 2013 09:10
Golfers dread hitting the links with a sandbagger.  That’s the fellow golfer who hides their real playing abilities to gain a competitive advantage.  As in the golfing world, sandbaggers exist in the corporate mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”) world, where “sandbagging” occurs when a buyer, who becomes aware pre-closing tha ... Read more...

Introducing China’s First Casino With Non-Cash Winnings

Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 28th February 2013 09:38
A subtle shift has emerged in how China’s central government views gambling on the mainland, with the quiet opening of the Jesters casino bar, part of the Mangrove Tree Sanya Bay Resort World complex in Sanya, Hainan Island. In ... Read more...

Reasons for Staying in China, and the Emergence of One Billion Consumers

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 26th February 2013 08:53
The massive rise of Chinese middle class wealth brings the “one billion consumers” myth far closer to reality   The issue with any new, emerging market lies within a study of its demographics. In the early 1990s, China had plenty of young, energetic men and women that had just reached the working age, in addition t ... Read more...

As China Burns More Coal, India Needs More

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 22nd February 2013 09:42
Recent figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration have revealed that China consumes almost as much coal as the rest of the world combined. Perhaps even more shocking, it has been estimated that India, who currently faces domestic shortages, could be importing as much coal as China by 2017. As the Asian giants continue to consume resources at an extraordinary rate to fund their develop ... Read more...

China to Cancel Preferential IIT Policy for Foreigners

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th February 2013 08:49
To resolve income discrepancies in China, the State Council recently released opinions on deepening income distribution reform (Guofa [2013] No.6, hereinafter referred to as the “Opinions”). One of the goals laid out in the Opinions is strengthening tax collection on high incomes and improving the tax system, including cancellation of the preferent ... Read more...

Tapping into China’s Online Sales Market

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 13th February 2013 10:06
China’s online sales market has become too big for international businesses to ignore. The country’s online shopping industry surpassed Japan’s in 2012 and is expected to overtake that of the United States to become the world’s largest online retail market in 2013.   In 2012, China’s online shoppers reached 247 mi ... Read more...

Vietnam as a Manufacturing Base for Sales to China

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 4th February 2013 08:44
One of the great enigma’s concerning managers across Asia today is Vietnam’s trade relationship with China, its massive northern neighbor with which it shares an 840-mile border.   This is a timely question to examine, not least because Vietnam is one of Asia’s “Tiger Economies” and, although it has suffered over ... Read more...

Myanmar-China Oil Pipeline Set to Commence Pumping in May

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 31st January 2013 09:42
China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) stated that the long awaited Myanmar-China oil and gas pipelines should be operational by May of this year. The 1,100 kilometer pipeline stretches from Kyaukpyu Port on Myanmar’s central west coast, crosses the country from west to east and terminates at Ruili, near Kunming, in Yunnan Province.   The pipeline ... Read more...

Main Corporate Trends Driving the Energy Practice

By Raposo Bernardo’s Energy Department, Posted: 3rd January 2013 09:54
The classical energies continue their normal growth rate, with a lot of regulatory work and some important transactions.  But it was the renewable sector, since about 2005, who gave rise to an irreversible boom in the energy market, leading to energy practice spin off as well as the creation of large specific departments in this area.  The renewable energy experienced a fantastic ... Read more...

Can You Really Have Executive Talent On Tap, As And When You Need It, To Help Drive Improved Corporate Performance?

By Simon Drake, Posted: 14th December 2012 10:19
All organisations at some time suffer a loss in management and leadership or quickly require new leadership talent to help them improve or change.  This is when the Boards or Leadership teams of these organisations turn to highly experienced Executives Interims who have ‘been there ... Read more...

China Releases Announcement on Export Quotas of Rare Earth

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 12th December 2012 10:01
China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) released the “Announcement on the Application Conditions and Procedures for Export Quotas of Rare Earth in 2013 (Announcement [2012] No.86)” on November 27, clarifying the application conditions and procedures of export quotas for rare earth production enterprises and circulation enterprises. Detailed in ... Read more...

China to Support Equity Contributions Through Scientific Results

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 10th December 2012 08:50
With the view to promote equity contributions made through scientific results and scientific innovations, China’s Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) jointly released the “Guiding Opinion regarding Capital Contributions in the Form of Scientific Results and Determination of the Relevant Equity Rights (hereinafter referred to ... Read more...

Royal Mail Reports Profits

By Haider Ali, Posted: 20th November 2012 09:36
The Royal Mail have helped add to the minute feeling of glee that the UK’s economy may be picking up after reporting a gargantuan increase in profits after six months.   Significant to this was the growth in the number of parcel deliveries being made around the country.  However the bread and butter of the company has not bucked the trend and continued to decli ... Read more...

Oil Could Hit Highs Over Iran War

By Haider Ali, Posted: 16th November 2012 10:22
The reliance on oil for small businesses to function and help facilitate growth in economically advanced countries like the United States and the United Kingdom cannot be underestimated in today’s turbulent climate.  What nobody wants right now is a hike in prices, which is sure to be the case should the oil taps of Iran turn off as a response to attacks on their nuclear install ... Read more...

Insurance Due Diligence – Ignore it at your Peril!

Insurance Due Diligence – Ignore it at your Peril!, Posted: 15th November 2012 10:06
The very mention of insurance is generally enough to glaze the eyes of the listener!  As number 37 on a check-list of 25, it has a very low priority in most transactions.  However, as this article demonstrates, it has a vital part to play and is critical to the success of most commercial transactions – especially where a bank is involved. ... Read more...

Project Financing In India

By Tanuj Sud, Posted: 2nd November 2012 09:56
Introduction – Macro Economic Considerations/Initiatives for Project Finance:   With a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) averaging around 6-8% in the recent past, and growth prospects enhanced by progressive liberalisation and a relatively stable political and financial system, capital inflow and mobilisation in India continues t ... Read more...

Vietnam Releases Legal Document on Foreign Investment in Education

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 31st October 2012 10:00
Decree No. 73/2012/ND-CP regarding education management for foreign cooperation and investment was promulgated in September. Accordingly, the forms of foreign investment allowed in education include 100 percent foreign-capitalized educational institutions and associated educational institutions between domestic investors and foreign investors.   Foreign investors ... Read more...

Hainan as an International Tourist Destination

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 29th October 2012 08:47
Hainan Island, China’s smallest and southernmost province has lagged far behind others in the region in terms of economic development. In 2011, the region’s GDP reached RMB252.26 billion, making it the fourth smallest economy in the entire country. However, the province boasts enormous economic potential.   Labeled as the “Oriental H ... Read more...

Lending on Contaminated Properties: Using Environmental Insurance to Manage Environmental Risks & Get the Deal Closed

By Andrew N. Davis & Aaron D. Levy, Posted: 18th October 2012 10:58
Banks and other institutional lenders, as well as private investors, review a myriad of risk factors when evaluating potential lending opportunities, including the offered interest rate and term of the loan, the borrower’s finances and credit history, and the loan-to-value ratio and market value of the underlying collateral.  Nonetheless, even when all other risks are negligible ... Read more...

Reforms in India: Government Clears FDI in Insurance and Pension

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 17th October 2012 08:49
The Government of India on October 4, 2012 approved moving the FDI cap in insurance to 49 percent while also approving the introduction of certain official amendments to the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Bill (2011). The decision has been taken by the Cabinet headed by the Prime Minister of India. Now, with the Cabinet approving the scheme, the Insura ... Read more...

China’s Lenovo Surpasses HP as Largest Global PC Maker

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 16th October 2012 09:26
The days of American dominance over the PC market seem to be coming to a close. According to the research firm Gartner, Lenovo captured a market share of 15.7 percent in the third quarter of 2012, topping HP’s 15.5 percent, ousting the PC giant from the leading position it held for the past six years. For years, the global computer industry was controlled by U. ... Read more...

Medical Expense Management

By Sheryl Dobson-Wainwright, Posted: 15th October 2012 09:10
Turn Key Captive and Self-Funded Solutions. Creative, customised solutions to manage health care dollars while ensuring that your members get quality, timely and effective medical services.    Medical Management in the Self-Funded and Captive Market   Self-insurance has been an effective way ... Read more...

Russia No Longer to Rely on Petro-Dollars

By Haider Ali, Posted: 11th October 2012 09:55
Since the recession has hit worldwide, states such as Russia have not featured so prominently in the media. With the United States bearing the brunt of a fiscal deficit that seems to be ever-widening and Europe in a perilous position facmg austerity measures, Russia has managed to navigate itself through a quagmire to safer economic shores.   They have provided t ... Read more...

Arctic Drilling: The New Oil Front

By Haider Ali, Posted: 5th October 2012 08:36
Drilling beyond the frozen shores of the Arctic was unfathomable for a variety of reasons from yesteryear. Logistical problems compounded with a lack of infrastructure all made the dream of searching for riches in this region very unfeasible. Throw into the mix the torrid winters, entrepreneurs would feel that investing there would not garner the returns shareholders and speculators would want.< ... Read more...

China Releases Report on Industrial Economic Strength

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 24th September 2012 09:23
Since the 16th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), China’s industrialization process has undergone in-depth development, its overall industrial strength has been improved significantly, and its industrial economic structure has been continuously optimized, according to an official report on achievements in social and economic development released by China& ... Read more...

China Issues Guidance to Promote Enterprise Technological Transformation

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 21st September 2012 09:05
With the aim to promote industrial upgradation and realize scientific development, China’s State Council released the “Guiding Opinions on Promoting Enterprise Technological Transformation (guofa [2012] No.44, hereinafter referred to as ‘Opinions’) on September 1, clarifying the development objectives, main tasks and safeguarding m ... Read more...

China Releases 12th Five-Year Plan for Energy Saving and Emission Reduction

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 6th September 2012 09:11
China’s State Council released the “Circular of the State Council on the Printing and Distribution of the 12th Five-Year Plan for Energy Saving and Emission Reduction (guofa [2012] No.40, hereinafter referred to as ‘Circular’)” on August 8, 2012, aiming to transform the mode of economic development, establish an energy ... Read more...

August News in Brief: A Monthly Round-Up

By James Drakeford , Posted: 31st August 2012 09:37
August has picked up the baton to follow the same direction as months gone by with Barclays and the Eurozone continuing to dominate column inches around the world.  Throw in the mega-money court case between Apple and Samsung along with tension in the public sector in Brazil and you have got yourself an intriguing month of news.  Here is a brief round up of all the bi ... Read more...

How To Grow Your Business Globally

Q&A with Mona Pearl, Posted: 1st August 2012 09:32
1. What Are 3 Top Reasons Middle Market Companies Positioned For Growth In Global Markets?   Middle market companies are more flexible, innovative and able to change and adapt much faster than the large multinationals.  That is a combination of size, layers of management as ... Read more...

How Negligent Is Our NHS?

By Tahar Rajab, Posted: 23rd July 2012 10:34
The National Health Service is a British emblem, and one of the great badges of our history.  A world leading pioneer in social welfare, the NHS was perhaps the most innovative political idea of the twentieth century.  However, it hasn’t come without its controversy of course and with the institution paying out a record total of £1.2 billion in med ... Read more...

Tax Benefits To Be Introduced For Australian Geothermal Explorers

By Justin Byrne , Posted: 5th July 2012 09:51
Exposure draft legislation released in May 2012 will allow Australian geothermal explorers to access immediate tax write offs and deductions for exploration expenses in certain circumstances.  The new rules will apply to assets first used after 1 July 2012, and will give geothermal exploration entities the same ability to claim immediate tax deductions and depreciation on cert ... Read more...

Resource Nationalism In The Mining Industry

By Yves Baratte & Iain Duncan, Posted: 2nd July 2012 09:02
The mining and metals industry endured a raft of tax increases from 2003-2008 as governments of mineral rich countries sought a larger share of profits from the commodities price boom.  This ended abruptly after prices collapsed following the global financial crisis.  But, in spite of the current high volatility in commodity prices, it has again become a target for go ... Read more...

Developments in Czech Renewables

By Kamil Blazek & Michal Forytek, Posted: 25th June 2012 09:20
The Czech renewable energy regulation went through a phase of intensive developments in the past two years.  This was both in the sphere of new legislation as well as in the area of litigation against possibly discriminatory behaviour of the Czech government. Czech Constitutional Court Backs State Over Photovoltaic Clampdown ... Read more...

“Current Trends & Expected Development” in Mexican Renewable Energy Market

By Edmond Grieger, Posted: 21st June 2012 08:43
Business opportunities continue to arise in our country’s renewable energy market, primarily from wind and solar projects.  Geothermal, mini-hydro, biomass and biofuels projects are being developed as well by transnational and national companies and further opening in this market is expected following the worldwide trend.   The Me ... Read more...

Is Renewable Energy Still A Green Investment?

By Javier Amantegui, Posted: 15th June 2012 09:10
Background It is no news that development of renewable energy has been largely fuelled by the 1992 UN Convention on Climate Change that gave birth to the Kyoto Protocol, in force since 2005.  The objective of the Protocol was for 37 industrialised countries and the European community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions & ... Read more...

Changes in the Portuguese Energy Sector

By Mónica Carneiro Pacheco, Posted: 14th June 2012 09:28
Among the large number of measures that the  Government is taking within the financial assistance plan  - some structural, some merely palliative – we are assisting to some important changes in the energy sector as part of the conditions imposed by the Troika (IMF, ECB, EC) of the Portuguese bailout package.    The first one w ... Read more...

“Current Trends & Expected Development” in Mexican Renewable Energy Market

By Edmond Grieger, Posted: 12th June 2012 09:00
Business opportunities continue to arise in our country’s renewable energy market, primarily from wind and solar projects.  Geothermal, mini-hydro, biomass and biofuels projects are being developed as well by transnational and national companies and further opening in this market is expected following the worldwide trend.   The Me ... Read more...

India Wages and Currency Beckon Manufacturers from China

By Chris Devonshire-Ellis, Posted: 4th June 2012 08:58
India is beginning to look increasingly attractive as a destination for foreign investors as concerns over a lack of reform direction in China, coupled with increasing labor costs and a strengthening RMB position are placing some China based businesses under financial pressures. This was a point made earlier this week by Davide Cucino, president of the European Union Chamber of Commerc ... Read more...

“Adaptability” Or Die – Who Is Paying For The Insurance Market’s Survival?

By Stephen Netherway & Alaina Wadsworth, Posted: 31st May 2012 09:25
As with all industries, the unstable financial climate, which has been prevalent over the last few years, has had a major impact on the insurance and reinsurance industry; on the one hand, tighter margins and tougher requirements to utilise capital efficiently and effectively have impacted on insurance companies’ willingness to write risks and the availability of insurance an ... Read more...

China and Japan Hold High-level Maritime Negotiations

By Nicholas Clement, Posted: 22nd May 2012 09:56
On Wednesday, China held negotiations with Japan regarding maritime issues in the East China Sea, with their territorial dispute over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands on the top of the agenda. Currently involved in a  ... Read more...

7 Secrets of Success for Real Estate Investors

By Al Cooper, Posted: 21st May 2012 08:50
There's a lot of money to be made in real estate, and since most don't like to see one percent returns on their bank CDs, many are starting to jump into the real estate investing game because of the nice returns. The problem with real estate investing is that if you make one wrong move, you could quickly be thousands of dollars in the hole. Like any industry, there are ... Read more...

Recent development of investment into the Japanese real estate market

By Yuichiro Nukada, Posted: 20th March 2012 10:13
Recent Japanese Real Estate Market To promote the real estate investment market in Japan, a statutory Special Purpose Vehicle scheme (tokutei mokuteki kaisha) for asset securitization was introduced in 1998 (TMK scheme).  This mainly addressed the li ... Read more...

Opportunities in Vietnam’s New Industries

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 12th March 2012 10:25
Vietnam’s food processing, software and environmental technology sectors have been labeled as new industries with great potential. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and the Central Highlands in particular have been identified as future centers for the food processing industry, ... Read more...

Hedging China – Could Apple Manufacture the iPad in India?

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 21st February 2012 10:11
The recent dispute between Apple and Proview over the rights to the “iPad” trademark in China has seen some potentially disruptive actions taken, including legal requests made to China Customs looking to prevent Apple from shipping its iPads from China to overseas markets. This is a potentially highly damaging situation giv ... Read more...

When will the Property Freeze begin to Thaw

By Claire Keeney, Posted: 15th February 2012 10:10
Given European wide austerity measures and economic uncertainty, it is expected that 2012 will be a difficult year for the commercial and retail property fund sectors.  The sovereign debt and financial crisis continues to negatively impact financial markets, specifically within Euro dominated countries in the Eurozone.  Relative inaction by some European policymakers app ... Read more...

China Sets New Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Goals

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 30th January 2012 11:32
In its newest “12th Five-year Plan on Greenhouse Emission Control (guofa [2011] No. 41),” China has set its new goals of reducing carbon emissions in the next five years and called for pilot programs that aim to promote a low-carbon economy. N ... Read more...

Tax Rates in Hong Kong

By Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 19th December 2011 10:59
As the Global Financial Crisis rumbles on, with certain reduced growth rates on the horizon for Europe and the United States, multinationals are looking elsewhere to achieve their business goals. Asia, a region riddled with wars and ineffective economic policies for much of the past century, has finally stepped into the front line of global trade and com ... Read more...

Taxation of the Oil Sector in Central Africa (CEMAC Area)

By François NOUVION, Posted: 7th December 2011 09:56
The Hydrocarbons legislations of countries that belong to the Monetary and Economic Community of Central Africa (CEMAC: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Chad) all provide, as a rule, that hydrocarbons contained in the soil and subsoil are the property of the State and therefore belong to the public domain(1). Agreements entered into ... Read more...

Civil Aviation in India

By Ravi Nath, Posted: 6th December 2011 09:34
As India celebrates 100 years of Civil Aviation, it has become the 9th largest Aviation market in the world, and in 9 years it will be the 3rd largest.  India’s geography and demographics, along with an increasing GDP has contributed to this growth.  There is increased pressure on airports and other infrastructure. ... Read more...

China’s Social Insurance Law - What Does It Mean for Employers and Foreign Individuals?

By Adam Livermore, Posted: 18th November 2011 10:23
On September 9, China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security finally clarified that foreigners are to be included in the Chinese social insurance system. The implementation date for this transition is to be October 15, 2011, however it remains to be seen whether social insurance bureaus across the country will be ready to accept the participation of foreigners at that ... Read more...

Takaful opportunities in Europe: A global growing phenomenon

By Sohail Jaffer, Posted: 21st October 2011 09:34
While the financial sector is recovering slowly, Shari’ah compliant finance is rising as one of the fastest growing segments of global finance.  Estimated at USD1trillion currently, the alternative finance has been growing exponentially at double digit rates for over a decade and has spread across all financial components including insurance.  The nascent insur ... Read more...

Civil Aviation in Albania

By Irsida Gjino & Fatos Lazimi, Posted: 7th October 2011 09:15
The Civil Aviation legal regime in the Republic of Albania is primarily governed by the Air Code of Albania (under Law no. 10 040, approved on 22.12.2008).  The Air Code has been drafted with the assistance of EUROCONTROL under Aviation Safety & Air Traffic Control Programme (ASATC) and reviewed by European Commission (EC) under European Common Aviation Area Agreement (EC ... Read more...

Mexico’s renewable energy market

By Edmond Grieger, Posted: 4th October 2011 10:07
Considered one of the largest economies in Latin America and located in a privileged geographical location to expand and support the exploitation of renewable energy, Mexico plays a big role in the sustainable development of the region, however, most energy is actually obtained from fossil fuels and therefore a big task is still ahead of the country in this sector. Bus ... Read more...

A Strong Foreign Role in China’s Green Building Industry

Jane Shi, Asia Briefing, and Christoph Michael, Dezan Shira & Associates, Posted: 7th September 2011 10:25
In the words of the 12th Five Year plan, “The construction industry will promote green architecture, green construction, concentrate efforts on optimizing structure and service mode by using advanced construction, materials and information technology.”(1) Green building in China is still in its nascent stages, but is receiving increasing government attention & ... Read more...

Recent issues on ETS for aviation & Transport sector in Belgium

By Birgitta Van Itterbeek, Posted: 26th August 2011 09:43
Belgium is first and for all known for its maritime transport with Antwerp being the second largest port of Europe and the 6th largest of the world.  Apart from the harbour of Antwerp Belgium has also a major seaport with Zeebrugge which is the largest port of Europe for roll on roll off ships.  Both ports are connected with the rest of the Europea ... Read more...

Recent Iran Sanctions and Their Effect On Ship Owners

By Patrick J. Bonner & Edward J. Carlson, Posted: 25th August 2011 09:10
Companies involved in shipping and energy now have an additional factor to consider when conducting international business: the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability and Divestment Act (“CISADA”) signed into law by President Obama on July 1, 2010.  Unlike sanctions that prohibit U.S. persons from doing business with Iran, CISADA applies extraterritorial ... Read more...

The introduction of Colombia to new markets through Bilateral Air Transport Agreements

By Juan Felipe Reyes , Posted: 22nd August 2011 09:01
Since 1947, Colombia acceded to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, commonly known as “The Chicago Convention” which has been in force for more than 50 years. Since  that  time, Colombia started to build a body of rules that governed our local aviation issues taking in to account the p ... Read more...

Offshore wind in the United Kingdom – Will new regimes help or hinder?

By Francis Tyrrell, Posted: 18th August 2011 10:17
The UK currently has the world’s largest offshore wind farm at Thanet, Kent and a recent study by the Carbon Trust suggests that if the UK invests in more offshore farms, it could capture 22 per cent of the global market by 2050, generating around £76 billion for UK plc.  There have recently been two wholesale legislative changes that will either help or hinde ... Read more...

The NTSB: Small Agency, Outsize Influence

By Gary Halbert, Posted: 17th August 2011 09:16
The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) regularly reminds those within the transportation community that it is not a regulator of the transportation sector or any individual transportation mode.  The NTSB investigates transportation accidents in the United States (U.S.), and indeed, NTSB investigations routinely probe into whether the framework of regulation ... Read more...

Communicate with Mexico

By Alejandro Berea, Posted: 16th August 2011 09:08
Undeniable fact: Mexico is a land of opportunity.  It is not an accident that a growing number of foreign companies from different industries are focusing their attention to starting business initiatives in our country.  Mexico in numbers: 1st Worldwide Color TV exporter. (Source: Ministry of E ... Read more...

Aircraft Finance in Canada

By Donald G. Gray, Posted: 11th August 2011 09:32
Aviation Jurisdiction. Canada is a federal state, consisting of a central federal government, 10 provincial and three territorial governments.  Under Canada’s constitution, international and interprovincial transportation and bankruptcy mat ... Read more...

Progress on America’s Marine Highway

By Nancy E. Zimmer, Posted: 10th August 2011 09:31
For the United States to compete in the global market it is imperative that it have dependable, efficient, and current infrastructure for the transport of goods.  Infrastructure for that transport needs to be overhauled so that it is in keeping with a larger populace leading to heavier use, and with the sustainable principles of lesser dependence on fossil fuels.  Transp ... Read more...

Oil Spills and the Environment: Strategies for Natural Resource Damage Assessments under the U.S. Oil Pollution Act of 1990

By Andrew N. Davis, Austin P. Olney & Aaron D. Levy , Posted: 5th August 2011 12:59
Big oil spills make front page news.  The 2010 Gulf of Mexico spill, the 2007 San Francisco Bay spill, and 2004 Delaware River spill are recent examples of high visibility events in the United States.  The clean up phase tends to capture the public's attention.  Less visible (and even less understood), is the equally important assessment of natural resource ... Read more...

Owning a Private or Corporate Jet: Plan Carefully for Acquisition of the Ultimate Asset

By: Aoife O’Sullivan and Dan Soffin, Posted: 4th August 2011 12:03
Introduction Demand for bespoke business transport is increasing. The high cost of executive and management time, combined with the need for worldwide access, flexibility, convenience, and costs savings over more rigid scheduled commercial flights, all contribute to continuing strong demand for ownership of business jets. ... Read more...

Preemption of state court motor vehicle products liability claims after Williamson: is preemption over?

By Sharon Caffrey& Alyson Walker, Posted: 2nd August 2011 11:28
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Williamson v. Mazda Motors of America, Inc., et al.,(1) that the plaintiffs’ state law-based ... Read more...

Maltese Environmental Law and Environmental Responsibility behind the Corporate Veil

By Dr Jotham Scerri Diacono & Dr. Annalise Caruana, Posted: 26th July 2011 11:13
Introduction Over the last decade or so, and particularly post Malta’s EU membership, Maltese Environmental law has undergone a quantum leap from a largely unregulated area of law (1) to a substantially comprehensive and surely more sophisticated network of primary and subsidiary legislation. Sophisticated as it were, env ... Read more...

A Strong Wind under the Sails of China’s Green Sector

By Samantha Jones, Posted: 22nd July 2011 13:28
With the new Foreign Investment Catalogue pushing several additional “green” industries into the “encouraged” category and the 12th Five Year Plan declared the “greenest in history,” China is abuzz with talk about the “green” sector. It has become very clear in recent ... Read more...

Navigating the Legal Landscape of Shale Gas Exploration and Development in the United States: Identifying and Managing Environmental Risks

By Andrew N. Davis & Aaron D. Levy, Posted: 15th July 2011 11:02
In the United States, continued concerns about global climate change (despite recent failures in Congress to pass comprehensive climate change legislation) and an over dependence on foreign oil have increased interest and demand for reliable sources of domestic energy.  While renewable energy sources continue to garner interest from the investment community, currently the most ec ... Read more...

Gaming Law in Italy

By Stefano Sbordoni, Posted: 12th July 2011 11:24
In the last few years the gambling industry has developed considerably and despite the world economic crisis it’s still growing rapidly in Italy and in other countries as well. As to the Italian specific situation, the industry’s turnover accounts to more than sixty billion Euros thanks to the State policy aimed at enhancing gambling though keeping ... Read more...

Overview of construction in South Africa

By Nikita Lalla, Posted: 11th July 2011 12:34
The South African government has identified a need for infrastructure development and has allocated USD70 billion for the development of roads, bridges and dams, USD3 billion for road maintenance and a further USD13.8 billion for railway upgrade.  Eskom Holdings Limited (the state owned utilities company) build programme (about USD8.2 billion over the next 5 years) is described a ... Read more...

An Introduction To U.S. Health Care Reform

By Cynthia Borrelli, Posted: 8th July 2011 18:27
On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the “PPACA” or “Health Care Reform.”)  The centerpieces of Health Care Reform are “individual responsibility” provisions generally requiring individuals to maintain health coverage or pay ... Read more...

Economical and political environment in Ecuador

By Ec. Juan Felipe Bustamante, Posted: 7th July 2011 13:09
II. Economical  Environment in Ecuador During the last decade, Ecuador has seen its economic environment strongly influenced by the financial and economic crisis of 1998-1999, and consequently by the process of currency convertibility through which t ... Read more...

Oil and Gas in Ghana: Legal issues

By Kojo Bentsi-Enchill, Posted: 5th July 2011 11:10
Challenges from Oil Discovery The oil discovery poses enormous challenges to Ghana.  The maritime boundary with Ivory Coast has to be settled.  The Petroleum Exploration and Production Law provides for unitization but there is no mechanism for cross-border unitization. ... Read more...

The Bulgarian energy strategy to 2020 and the investment opportunities in the energy sector

By Kostadin Sirleshtov, Borislava Pokrass & Pavlin Stoyanoff, Posted: 1st July 2011 11:39
Introduction The energy sector has always been a main priority of the Bulgarian Government.  The Bulgarian Energy Strategy to 2020 (the “Energy Strategy”), a fundamental document of the national energy policy, was brought into force on 1 June 2011 and will, to a great extent, d ... Read more...

The Global Green Interchange

By Garrett Monaghan, Posted: 30th June 2011 13:34
The Global Green Interchange (the “Interchange”) is a multi-sector initiative aimed at developing and implementing a cohesive strategy to position Ireland as a world-class centre and supportive culture for green finance and enterprise. Arthur Cox has been a committed founding member of ... Read more...

Private equity in the energy market

By Kavita Patel, Posted: 27th June 2011 13:38
Corporate finance has a huge part to play in the success of the UK energy market not least because bank funding can be difficult to obtain for renewable projects – it is common knowledge that major UK banks have shown a reluctance to be involved in this market.  Combined with the fact that there are very exciting profits available, Martineau’s city-facing Corp ... Read more...

Australia’s New Tax Regimes

By Gordon Grieve, Posted: 24th June 2011 15:43
Despite increasing economic uncertainty across the globe, Australia remains a land of opportunity for offshore investment particularly in the energy and resources sector.  It's important that investors are aware that the sector currently faces the prospect of new taxes at the federal level and a likely increase of royalty imposts at the state level. ... Read more...

IP considerations for high-tech companies entering the China market

By Margaret Burke and WuBin Yan from Ella Cheong (Hong Kong & Beijing), Posted: 21st June 2011 11:14
Whatever your motivation for entering the China market, as a technology-oriented company it is important to define your objectives up front, devise your corporate vehicle for doing business in China, and carefully police the use of your inbound intellectual property while ensuring that future IP developed in China is properly protected.  While China offers unparalleled opportunit ... Read more...

A Great Time to Invest in Canadian Electricity Projects

By Andrew J. Roman, Posted: 17th June 2011 10:57
In 2008, singer Kenny Chesney had a big hit with his recording of “Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven” (but nobody wants to die).   We can all smile at the humorous contradiction in the title of the song, yet our attitudes in other areas of our lives may be equally irrational.   An excellent illustration of irrational hope is found in p ... Read more...

The memorandum of understanding of the assistance plan between EU-IMF-ECB and Portugal and the Renewables Sector

By Mónica Carneiro Pacheco, Posted: 15th June 2011 13:00
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by Portugal, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the European Union and the European Central Bank (ECB) on 3 May as part of the bailout package, commits the Portuguese government to “assess in a report the possibility of agreeing a renegotiation of the contracts in view of a lower feed-in tariff”.  This applie ... Read more...

Foreign Insurance Companies in Japan – Possible Reforms?

By Tomoki Debari, Magister Juris, and Daniel Tan, Posted: 13th June 2011 11:01
Japan is one of the world's largest insurance markets but foreign insurers' market share in Japan is relatively small.  For example, foreign insurers' share of Japan's non-life insurance market is estimated at only around 6%.  In contrast, foreign insurers' approximate share of: the UK insurance market (excluding Lloyd's ... Read more...

Energy–Where Is the Vision?

By Sheila Slocum Hollis, Posted: 10th June 2011 00:32
The energy industry is one of the most sophisticated, heavily capitalized, and technologically advanced industries in human history.  Now, as an absolute essential component to our survival and progress, it continues to be confounded and challenged by natural disasters, man-made disasters, brutal partisan and regional politics, overall economic conditions and persistent internati ... Read more...

Recent issues and trends in oil and gas M&A

By John Geraghty, Posted: 2nd June 2011 21:44
Despite a number of headwinds (including Middle East unrest and an uncertain economic recovery) M&A activity in the oil and gas sector has been relatively robust.  Deal activity has been driven by strong demand from China, India and Korea in particular.  In a competitive M&A environment having a good understanding of market practice and new developments i ... Read more...

Coming to America: Converting a UK Technology License Agreement To A US Technology License Agreement

By Peter A. Draugelis, Posted: 31st May 2011 20:18
US and UK technology license agreements are fundamentally similar to each other.  UK licensors should take heed, though, because there are nuances that, if not addressed, can create problems - sometimes small and sometimes large - when you come across the pond to sell your wares.  The following is intended to provide you with a general guide to those nuances. &l ... Read more...

Opportunities in the TMT sector

By Nasareo Lazzaro, Posted: 5th May 2011 21:03
Technology is a constantly developing industry that covers a broad range of areas.  Over our lifetimes we have seen the emergence of new technologies in the home entertainment sector, with it currently venturing into the realms of 3D.  We have witnessed great advancements in the mobile communications industry also, with super smart phones soon to be released, and of cour ... Read more...