Africa's five major trends for potential growth

[Issa Sikiti da Silva: @sikitimedia] Population growth, rapid urbanisation, adoption of new technologies, unlocking of abundant resources and the deepening of the financial sector are the five major trends that are set to drive Africa's economic growth, Simon Freemantle, Standard Bank Africa senior analyst, told a media roundtable in Johannesburg, South Africa, yesterday, Thursday 6 October 2011. 7 Oct 2011 09:56

World Economic Forum on Africa poised for take off

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / CAPE TOWN, SA: The World Economic Forum has announced that more than 900 participants from 60 countries will participate in the 21st World Economic Forum on Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, 4-6 May 2011. Jacob G. Zuma, president of South Africa, will host the meeting, where participants will gather to deliberate under the theme From Vision to Action, Africa's Next Chapter. 29 Apr 2011 10:40

Uncertainty about transfer pricing rules in Africa a concern for foreign companies

Companies doing business in Africa face several uncertainties, including how tax authorities will handle transfer pricing (TP). It is vital that organisations prepare comprehensive documentation to demonstrate their application of the arm's length principle and the procedures followed. 5 Apr 2011 12:05

Unemployment, inflation worries hit consumer confidence

NEW YORK, US: Consumer confidence fell in 25 out of 52 countries in Q4 2010 as hope for a global economic recovery evaporated at the end of last year, according to the latest edition of the Nielsen Global Consumer Confidence Index, which tracks consumer confidence, major concerns and spending intentions among online consumers. 27 Jan 2011 11:00

GM restructures African business, seeking growth

[Michael Bratt] General Motors (GM) has announced a new strategy for African business, which it hopes will allow GM to capitalise on the growing opportunities around the continent. 23 Nov 2010 12:36

Hope for full global economic recovery in 2010 diminishes

NEW YORK, US: After an upbeat start to the year with two consecutive quarters of increases in optimism, global consumer confidence fell three points in September to an Index of 90 as consumers' hopes for a full economic recovery this year fades in most parts of the world, according to the latest edition of the Nielsen Global Consumer Confidence Index. 27 Oct 2010 06:22

Sustained business recovery on the cards as companies look to re-start investment

LONDON, UK: The latest Global Business Outlook Survey from KPMG International suggests that businesses are ready to begin investing again as the healthy optimism recorded earlier in the year holds firm. Overall, business optimism remains static but strong, with India and China leading the way; while UK and Spain are still less confident. 3 Aug 2010 12:20

Delayed by volcano

[Rod Baker] The eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajökull volcano had a massive impact on many spheres - from the airlines, to events, to travel, to health, import and exports, and more, and its impact is likely to be felt for a long time - and that's even should the eruption cease completely - which it hasn't! 29 Apr 2010 09:00

Shipping companies say it is 'too early to talk of recovery'

[Artwell Dlamini] Even though shipping rates are recovering, local shipping firms say they have not yet seen “green shoots” emerging in the turbulent shipping industry. They warn that the industry still faces shrinking world trade volumes and a glut of ships. 15 Jun 2009 12:37

China pledges support for Africa despite economic slowdown

[Michael Appel] China's Ambassador to South Africa, Zhong Jianhua, has confirmed China will not reduce its investment in Africa, and is even considering expanding aid to the continent during the global recession. 17 Feb 2009 16:57

High import tariffs holds up growth

[Michael Appel] High import tariffs, trade barriers and a culture of protectionism impedes economic growth, says Department of Trade and Industry Director General Tshediso Matona. 28 Jul 2008 12:35

UK to increase trade to Africa to $750m by 2010

[Michael Appel] The United Kingdom will be spending some $750 million in Africa by 2010, through its "Aid for Trade" strategy forming part of the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs). 7 Jul 2008 16:52

Oppose EU's economic agreements - Oxfam

[Michael Appel] Addis Ababa – International humanitarian organisation Oxfam and Afro-flag Youth Vision have urged African governments to jointly oppose the European Union's (EU) proposed Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs). 4 Feb 2008 06:31