Resource development Publications Limited

THE BIG SHIFT

THE WORLD IN TRANSITION AS NEW ECONOMIC POWERS ARE RISING IN ASIA

The global economy is in a transition driven by several key and interconnected factors: geopolitical shifts and the fragmentation of trade, rapid technological advancement, the urgent push for decarbonization and sustainability, and significant demographic changes.

Geopolitical and Economic Shifts

Geopolitical Realignment: The rise of new economic powers, particularly in Asia, is shifting the world's economic "center of gravity" from Western regions. This has led to increased regional trade blocs, economic nationalism, and a more multipolar world order, moving away from hyper-globalization.

Trade Fragmentation and Reshoring: The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical rivalries exposed vulnerabilities in extended, just-in-time supply chains, leading companies and nations to prioritize resilience through "friend-shoring" or "near-shoring" (moving production to politically aligned or nearby countries). This has increased trade barriers and policy uncertainty.

Debt and Inflation: High levels of global public debt, partly from pandemic-era stimulus, combined with supply-side constraints and rising energy prices, have fueled persistent inflation and an era of higher interest rates. This raises the cost of capital and dampens consumer demand.

Technological Revolution

AI and Automation: Technological innovations, especially in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digitalization, are profoundly transforming industries, enhancing productivity, and creating new business models. These advancements also pose challenges such as workforce displacement and the need for upskilling and reskilling.

Digital Infrastructure: Robust digital infrastructure is now a baseline requirement for economic competitiveness, with innovations in fintech, e-commerce, and data processing reshaping financial services, retail, and logistics.

Decarbonization and Sustainability

Energy Transition: The global push for net-zero emissions is accelerating the shift toward renewable energy sources and low-carbon technologies. This transition creates opportunities in green sectors but also risks for fossil-fuel-dependent economies (potential stranded assets) and challenges related to securing critical minerals for new technologies.
Climate Impacts: The physical impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, are causing economic damage and creating persistent inflationary pressures on energy and food prices.

Demographic Shifts

Aging Populations: Many advanced economies face the challenge of aging populations and falling birth rates, which strains public finances (pensions, healthcare) and alters labor market dynamics.

Workforce Dynamics: The normalization of remote and hybrid work has globalized the labor market, allowing businesses to tap into worldwide talent pools. The development of human capital through education and training is crucial for adapting to these new labor market demands.

These factors interact in complex ways, creating both significant opportunities and risks that require strategic adaptation and international cooperation from policymakers and business leaders.

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AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE IN ASIA UNDERGOING RAPID TRANSFORMATION.

Agricultural science in Asia is experiencing a dynamic period of development, with advancements in smart agriculture, climate-smart techniques, and research capacity. East Asia is leading the way in adopting smart agriculture technologies, while South Asia focuses on climate resilience. Southeast Asia is making progress in strengthening research and development (R&D), but faces challenges related to underinvestment.

Smart Agriculture: East Asian countries like Japan, China, and South Korea are rapidly integrating technologies like AI, big data, and robotics into agricultural practices.
Climate-Smart Agriculture: South Asia, with its harsh climate, is prioritizing the development of climate-smart agriculture to enhance resilience.

Water Management: Central Asia is focusing on efficient water management and sustainable use of arable land.

Research Capacity: Southeast Asia has shown progress in strengthening agricultural R&D, but needs to address underinvestment and ensure research targets priority areas.

Public and Private Partnerships: The World Bank is actively involved in supporting agricultural development in Asia through direct financing and partnerships with public and private sectors, focusing on food and nutrition security, resilience, and data-driven solutions.

Innovation Systems: A new generation of agricultural innovations has the potential to address productivity, sustainability, and food safety, but requires strong policy and institutional support.
Specific Examples: The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), based in the Philippines, has been instrumental in developing high-yielding rice strains that have been adapted by various Asian countries.

Initiatives like the CABI and CIRAD collaboration are strengthening sustainable agriculture practices in Southeast Asia.

Organizations like the Gates Foundation are funding government initiatives and private sector partnerships to develop sustainable agricultural businesses and strategies.

Challenges and Opportunities

Underinvestment in R&D: Many Southeast Asian countries face significant underfunding of agricultural research, which hinders their ability to address future challenges.

Environmental Sustainability:

Traditional focus on expanding agricultural production has led to environmental concerns, requiring a shift towards more sustainable practices.

Food Safety: Urbanization and increased demand for processed foods have highlighted the need for improved food safety systems.

Water Scarcity: Many regions in Asia face increasing water scarcity, which requires efficient water management strategies.

Shifting Consumption Patterns:

Changing consumption patterns and growing economies will require adjustments in agricultural production, consumption, and trade.

Overall, agricultural science in Asia is undergoing a period of transformation, with a growing emphasis on smart technologies, climate resilience, and sustainable practices. Addressing challenges related to underinvestment, environmental sustainability, and food safety is crucial for ensuring a productive and sustainable agricultural future for the region.

Russian engineers have just tested a hypersonic passenger aircraft prototype that can fly from Moscow to New York in under two hours — without producing a deafening sonic boom. Built by the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) in partnership with several aerospace startups, the aircraft, nicknamed Strizh (“Swift”), uses a revolutionary “shockwave-canceling” fuselage design that manipulates airflow to muffle the sound normally generated when breaking the speed of sound.

The plane’s body is shaped like an elongated diamond with a hollow central channel that redirects and diffuses pressure waves before they hit the ground. Combined with an active plasma field generator at the nose, it alters the density of the surrounding air, reducing drag and allowing speeds up to Mach 6 — nearly 7,400 km/h. During its first high-altitude flight over the Arctic, test pilots reported that the cabin was surprisingly quiet, with turbulence reduced to a gentle sway.

Strizh’s engines are equally unconventional: hybrid scramjets fueled by a synthetic hydrogen blend that produces only water v***r as exhaust. To avoid the extreme heating that destroys most hypersonic vehicles, engineers used a skin made from a titanium-graphene composite with embedded micro-channels for liquid nitrogen cooling. This keeps the surface temperature hundreds of degrees lower, even at blistering speeds.

One of the most striking features is its vertical takeoff and landing system. Instead of needing a massive runway, Strizh uses a cluster of vector-thrust boosters that lift it into the upper atmosphere before the scramjets ignite. This means it could operate from smaller airports worldwide, potentially bringing hypersonic travel to dozens of cities without major infrastructure changes.

If commercialized, this technology could redefine global travel. Business trips across continents could be completed before lunch, and cargo deliveries that take days today could arrive in hours — all while producing less environmental impact than conventional long-haul jets.

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AFRICA HAS THE POTENTIAL TO PLAY SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

Africa has the potential to significantly advance in technology and innovation, potentially catching up with other regions. While currently facing challenges, Africa has shown remarkable progress in areas like mobile technology adoption and startup ecosystems, and with strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and supportive policies, the continent can unlock its full potential.

Factors that indicate potential for Africa's catching up are:

(1) Mobile Technology Adoption:
Africa has demonstrated a strong capacity to embrace mobile technology, bypassing traditional infrastructure like landlines to adopt mobile phones and mobile money solutions.

(2) Startup Ecosystem Growth:

The continent's tech startup scene is experiencing rapid growth, with increasing funding and a vibrant entrepreneurial culture.

(3) AfCFTA:
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can foster regional integration, creating larger markets and attracting investment, which can further drive technological advancements, according to the World Bank.

(4) Leapfrogging:
Africa has the opportunity to "leapfrog" traditional technologies and adopt cutting-edge solutions, potentially accelerating its development.

Challenges hindering progress:

(1) Digital Skills Gap:
There's a shortage of skilled professionals in technology, limiting the ability to develop and maintain technological systems.

(2) Limited Funding:

While funding is increasing, it's still a small fraction of global investment in tech startups.

(3) Regulatory Hurdles:
Cumbersome regulations can stifle innovation and hinder the growth of startups.

(4) Infrastructural Deficiencies:

Limited access to reliable internet and electricity, especially in rural areas, restricts the adoption of technology.

(5) Cybersecurity Threats:

The lack of robust cybersecurity measures makes African countries vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Pathways to catching up:

(1) Investment in Digital Infrastructure:
Expanding access to affordable and reliable internet and electricity is crucial.

(2) Promoting Digital Literacy:

Equipping individuals with the necessary digital skills is essential for embracing new technologies.

(3) Supporting Local Content and Innovation:

Fostering local innovation and creating platforms for African tech talent to thrive is vital.

Strengthening Regional Integration:

Removing barriers to trade and harmonizing regulations within Africa can create larger markets and attract investment.

Fostering Entrepreneurship:
Providing support and resources for startups to grow and scale is crucial for driving innovation.

Africa has the potential to catch up with other regions in technology and innovation, but it requires strategic investments, supportive policies, and a focus on building a strong digital ecosystem.

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TOWARDS A TRANSFORMATIVE GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT IN AFRICA

Assessing grassroots development in Africa involves measuring the progress and impact of initiatives focused on improving the lives of people at the local level. This includes evaluating factors like access to basic needs (education, healthcare, sanitation), community participation in decision-making, and the effectiveness of local governance and leadership.

Assessing Basic Needs:

Education: Measuring enrollment rates, school attendance, and the quality of education offered in local schools. This includes assessing the availability of resources like textbooks, qualified teachers, and infrastructure.

Healthcare: Evaluating access to healthcare facilities, the availability of essential medicines, and the prevalence of preventable diseases. This also includes monitoring maternal and child health indicators.

Sanitation and Hygiene: Assessing access to clean water and sanitation facilities, as well as the adoption of hygiene practices.

Community Participation and Governance:

Participation in Decision-Making:
Evaluating the extent to which community members are involved in planning and implementing development projects. This can involve assessing the effectiveness of local councils and community-based organizations.

Local Governance:
Assessing the transparency and accountability of local governments, as well as their ability to manage resources effectively and deliver essential services.

Social Capital:

Measuring the strength of social networks and community cohesion, as well as the capacity of communities to mobilize resources and address local challenges.

Tracking changes in indicators like infant mortality rates, school enrollment, and access to clean water and sanitation provides a concrete measure of the impact of development initiatives.

Qualitative Data Collection:

In addition to quantitative data, it's important to collect qualitative data through interviews, focus groups, and community consultations to understand the lived experiences of people affected by development programs.

The Role of Leadership:

Leadership Development Programs:

Investing in leadership development programs at the grassroots level is crucial for building the capacity of local leaders to effectively manage and implement development initiatives.

Participatory Leadership: Encouraging participatory leadership styles, where communities are involved in decision-making processes, is essential for ensuring that development efforts are aligned with local needs and priorities.

By adopting a holistic approach that combines community participation, local governance, and impact assessment, it is possible to effectively measure the progress of grassroots development in Africa and ensure that development efforts are truly transformative.

GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT ISSUES

‎Global Development Issues encompass a wide range of interconnected challenges, including climate change, poverty, food insecurity, global health crises, and rising inequality.
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‎These issues are often exacerbated by economic shocks, political instability, and the interconnectedness of the global economy.
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‎Analyzing these issues requires understanding their historical context, diverse perspectives, and the complex interplay between different actors and systems.
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‎Debt Burdens:
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‎High levels of debt can constrain the ability of developing countries to invest in crucial areas like health, education, and infrastructure.
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‎Technological Disruption:
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‎Rapid technological advancements, while offering potential benefits, also raise concerns about job displacement, digital divides, and ethical considerations.
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‎Interconnectedness of Issues:
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‎It is crucial to recognize that these issues are not isolated. For instance, climate change can exacerbate food insecurity, which in turn can lead to conflict and displacement.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and integrated approach that considers the complex interplay of social, economic, political, and environmental factors.
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‎Understanding the historical roots of current challenges is essential for developing effective solutions.
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‎Applying relevant development theories can provide insights into the causes and consequences of global development issues.
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We Present ‎Contemporary Analysis:
‎Examining development experiences across different countries and regions can help identify best practices and lessons learned.
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WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK:

PASSPORT TO BECOME A GLOBAL CITIZEN

The World Economic and Investment Handbook explores the globe for economic opportunities worldwide. Evaluating countries based on their ability to foster growth, stability, and innovation to enable individuals and organisations with dreams gain insights about opportunities beyond their immediate environment.

Our focus is not just about financial gains; it encompasses access to quality education, supportive infrastructure, robust economic policies, and favourable conditions for entrepreneurs and investors. These factors help individuals and businesses thrive, enabling them to reach their full potential.

The Handbook sheds light on the most cutting-edge, dynamic economies and highlights processes and procedures required.

In today’s interconnected world, economic opportunity is increasingly mobile. Global citizens are searching for environments where they can grow personally and professionally. High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and entrepreneurs are leading this trend, seeking destinations with favourable business climates, economic resilience, and high investor confidence.

Enhanced global connectivity, the eminence of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes, and globalised economies have changed the game around opportunities. This means that global citizens now have the ability to move to countries that provide great opportunities, self-actualising and reaching their potential in the process.

The World Economic and Investment Handbook highlights economic opportunities around the world underscoring the most cutting-edge, innovative and fruitful destinations for you.

Order your copy and begin to navigate the ever-changing landscape of global investment opportunities in 2025.

GET A COPY OF WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK NOW.

Seven Thousand Five Hundred Naira per copy ( #7,500) excluding the cost of delivery.

Payments to be made to: Resource Development Publications Limited. UBA Account number 1026448133.

For further enquiries call: 08024744313
Email:[email protected]

THE WORLD IS NOW WITHIN YOUR REACH!

WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK 2025

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE).

Due to technological advancements like the internet and fast communication tools, the world feels more interconnected and accessible, allowing individuals and businesses to reach a wider audience and explore more opportunities globally, essentially "shrinking" the world in terms of distance and limitations.

Investors are increasingly seeking opportunities beyond their local markets. The global investment landscape is constantly evolving, with new incentives and emerging trends shaping the opportunities available to savvy investors. As the year 2025 continue to unfold, it becomes crucial to stay informed about the attractive investment options around the world.

World Economic and Investment Handbook 2025 highlights exciting global investment opportunities, exploring the incentives and trends that are unlocking new possibilities in the coming years. From emerging markets and industries to government policies and technological advancements.

A country’s future growth is dependent on a range of factors, including how prepared it is to weather challenges posed by the global economy. To be successful, nations need resiliency and momentum.

Today our focus is on United Arab Emirates.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) presents promising economic prospects with diverse investment opportunities across sectors like energy, finance, healthcare, technology, and logistics, driven by its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, with a particular focus on diversifying beyond oil towards non-oil sectors like tourism, manufacturing, and knowledge-based industries; key areas for investment include renewable energy, fintech, life sciences, space exploration, and real estate development, particularly in major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Key points about UAE's economic prospects:

Diversification beyond oil:

While oil remains a significant contributor, the UAE is actively diversifying its economy with a focus on non-oil sectors, including tourism, logistics, and financial services, leading to more stable economic growth.

Strong infrastructure:

The UAE boasts world-class infrastructure, including transportation networks, telecommunications, and advanced facilities, making it attractive for businesses looking to establish operations.

Business-friendly environment:

The UAE has a reputation for its pro-business policies, including low corporate tax rates, ease of doing business, and access to skilled workforce.

Strategic location:

The UAE's location in the Middle East provides easy access to key markets in the region and beyond, facilitating trade and commerce.

Promising investment opportunities in the UAE:

Energy sector:

Investments in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are gaining momentum due to the UAE's commitment to sustainability.

Financial services:

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a major hub for financial services, offering opportunities in banking, investment, and Islamic finance.

Technology and innovation:

Fintech, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology are rapidly developing in the UAE, creating potential for investment and innovation.

Healthcare:

With high-quality healthcare facilities, investments in medical technology and healthcare services are promising.

Logistics and trade:

The UAE's ports and logistics infrastructure present opportunities for businesses involved in global trade.

Real estate:

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are major real estate markets with potential for residential and commercial property investments.

Space industry:

The UAE has ambitious plans for space exploration, opening doors for investments in satellite technology and related industries.

Tourism and hospitality:

With its diverse attractions and luxurious experiences, tourism remains a key pillar of the UAE economy.

Order your copy and begin to navigate the ever-changing landscape of global investment opportunities in 2025.

GET A COPY OF WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK NOW.

Seven Thousand Five Hundred Naira per copy ( #7,500) excluding the cost of delivery.

Payments to be made to: Resource Development Publications Limited. UBA Account number 1026448133.

For further enquiries call: 08024744313
Email:[email protected]

THE WORLD IS NOW IN YOUR HANDS

SMALLER WORLD AND GREATER OPPORTUNITIES: WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK 2025

Due to technological advancements like the internet and fast communication tools, the world feels more interconnected and accessible, allowing individuals and businesses to reach a wider audience and explore more opportunities globally, essentially "shrinking" the world in terms of distance and limitations.

Global connectivity:

The internet has made it possible to connect with people and businesses across the globe almost instantly, facilitating collaboration and market access regardless of physical location.

Investors are increasingly seeking opportunities beyond their local markets. The global investment landscape is constantly evolving, with new incentives and emerging trends shaping the opportunities available to savvy investors. As the year 2025 continue to unfold, it becomes crucial to stay informed about the attractive investment options around the world.

World Economic and Investment Handbook 2025 highlights exciting global investment opportunities, exploring the incentives and trends that are unlocking new possibilities in the coming years. From emerging markets and industries to government policies and technological advancements.

A country’s future growth is dependent on a range of factors, including how prepared it is to weather challenges posed by the global economy. To be successful, nations need resiliency and momentum.

Today our focus is on Brazil.

Brazil presents promising economic prospects with significant investment opportunities primarily in the sectors of agriculture (agribusiness), commodities, mining, renewable energy, infrastructure development, and consumer markets, driven by its large population, diverse natural resources, and growing middle class; however, investors should be aware of potential challenges related to political instability, bureaucracy, and economic volatility.

Key sectors with investment potential:

Agriculture:

Brazil is a global leader in agricultural production, particularly in soybeans, corn, coffee, and beef, offering opportunities in farming, processing, and export.

Mining:

Rich mineral reserves like iron ore, manganese, and nickel provide opportunities for mining operations and related industries.

Renewable Energy:

With its vast territory and favorable climate, Brazil has significant potential for solar and wind power generation.

Infrastructure:

Significant investments are needed in areas like transportation (roads, railways), ports, and sanitation, creating opportunities for infrastructure development companies.

Consumer Market:

A large and growing middle class presents opportunities in consumer goods, retail, and services.

Technology:

The tech sector is growing, particularly in areas like fintech and digital solutions, with São Paulo emerging as a tech hub.

Regional Investment Opportunities:

Southeast: Leading in finance, technology, agribusiness, with São Paulo as a major center.

Northeast: Potential for renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture.

South: Strong in agribusiness and automotive manufacturing.

Central-West: Dominant in soybean and corn production with strong logistics.

North: Rich in natural resources, driving mining and forestry industries.

Key Considerations for Investment.

Local Partnerships:

Collaborating with established Brazilian companies can provide valuable market access and expertise.

Risk Mitigation Strategies:

Thorough due diligence, hedging against currency fluctuations, and understanding political dynamics are crucial.

Sustainability Focus:

Investing in environmentally conscious practices can be advantageous in the Brazilian market.

For those willing to navigate these markets, the rewards can be substantial.

2025 is a year of great opportunities, explore the world and discover opportunities waiting to be tapped.

Order your copy and begin to navigate the ever-changing landscape of global investment opportunities in 2025.

GET A COPY OF WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK NOW.

Seven Thousand Five Hundred Naira per copy ( #7,500) excluding the cost of delivery.

Payments to be made to: Resource Development Publications Limited, UBA Account number 1026448133.

THE WORLD IS NOW IN YOUR HANDS

A VERY SMALL WORLD WITH GREAT OPPORTUNITIES INDEED:

SOUTH KOREA

In today's interconnected world, investors are increasingly seeking opportunities beyond their local markets. The global investment landscape is constantly evolving, with new incentives and emerging trends shaping the opportunities available to savvy investors. As the year 2025 continue to unfold, it becomes crucial to stay informed about the attractive investment options around the world.

World Economic and Investment Handbook 2025 highlights exciting global investment opportunities, exploring the incentives and trends that are unlocking new possibilities in the coming years. From advanced economies, emerging markets and industries to government policies and technological advancements.

A country’s future growth is dependent on a range of factors, including how prepared it is to weather challenges posed by the global economy. To be successful, nations need resiliency and momentum. Today our focus is on South Korea.

South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, is a nation in eastern Asia that occupies the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula.

South Korea’s high-tech, service-based economy is a foreign investment success story, becoming the first recipient of OECD Development Assistance Committee funds to later become a donor of the funds. The nation has seen steady growth and poverty reduction since the 1960s and is now among the world’s largest economies overall.

The country’s capital, Seoul, is located near the center of the Korean Peninsula, chosen as such during the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897) for its impressive feng shui – the idea that the positioning of objects ensures health and harmony. It is home to the headquarters of Samsung, Hyundai and Kia, representing two of South Korea’s important exports: technology and cars.

South Korea has one of the world’s largest gross national savings and reserves of foreign investment. Disposable household income has increased in recent years, and the country’s large upper class is keen to spend their money on “brand name” items and products.

South Korea’s culture is rooted heavily in the humanist ideology of Confucianism. Today, Christianity is the prominent religion with Buddhism as a close second. South Korea faces the challenge of an aging population. Residents are afforded universal health care and mandatory education through middle school.

Visitors can explore the country’s temperate climate, sweeping hills and mountains, and wide coastal plains, along with 13 UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites.

South Korea is a member of many international organizations, including the United Nations, G-20, Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum and World Trade Organization.

All the countries featured in the World Economic and Investment Handbook 2025 have shown promising signs of economic development, political stability, and increasing consumer demand.

For those willing to navigate these markets, the rewards can be substantial.

2025 is a year of great opportunities, explore the world and discover opportunities waiting to be tapped.

Order your copy and begin to navigate the ever-changing landscape of global investment opportunities in 2025.

GET A COPY OF WORLD ECONOMIC AND INVESTMENT HANDBOOK NOW.

Seven Thousand Five Hundred Naira per copy ( #7,500) excluding the cost of delivery.

Payments to be made to: Resource Development Publications Limited. UBA Account number 1026448133.

For further enquiries call: 08024744313
Email:[email protected]

THE WORLD IS NOW IN YOUR HANDS