Changes in agriculture and tourism markets are creating new opportunities but also challenges for traditional industries. Attempting to preserve existing structures will only increase stress; assisting adaptation is better to save jobs and regional prosperity. New technologies, consumer demands, and international competition require Australian industries to focus on high-quality niche products rather than commodities, and adopt improved business skills through cooperation.
Editorial: How Africa Natural Resources can drive Industrial Revolution, Nove...Africa Cheetah Run
Africa has a variety of Natural Resources which in return can be used to drive Industrial Revolution. Gold is among the resources spurring economic growth in Africa. To ensure equality Governments should tackle inequality and lay framework for supportive policies.
On Monday, September 26, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield delivered opening remarks for the 2016 Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum. The following is an excerpt of her remarks. Since 2000, AGOA has been the cornerstone of U.S. economic policy in Africa. The annual AGOA Forum serves as the premier event that brings together African Trade Ministers with U.S. counterparts to discuss how we can work together to enhance our trade and investment relationship.
1. Avelgood Apps, based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, has created several mobile apps including tools and flashlight apps that have won awards and millions of downloads.
2. Their new Twiggle app allows users to identify birds by recording their songs or entering physical characteristics, and aims to expand their audience globally among bird lovers.
3. Twiggle is available for free on Apple and Windows platforms, and an Android version is in development, as the company seeks to grow beyond its base in the northern hemisphere.
The document discusses the situation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. Some key points:
- MSMEs make up over 99% of total enterprises in the Philippines and employ over 60% of the workforce. However, they face numerous constraints to growth.
- Compared to other ASEAN countries, the Philippines receives average scores on supporting policies for SMEs, indicating areas like business registration could be improved.
- MSMEs play an important role in the Philippine economy through job creation, rural development, and entrepreneurship. They contribute over 30% to the country's GDP.
Global luxury goods sales exceed $200 billion annually, with wealthy consumers accounting for 68% of spending and aspirationals making up 12%. However, the biggest change is the emergence of newcomers as major luxury buyers, most of whom are women ages 25-55 with medium to high incomes. These women are interested in luxury goods as status symbols and ways to feel superior, empowered, unique, and to boost their self-image and live lavish lifestyles.
Edwin Laurent opened remarks at a conference on economic potential for Africa's regional trade cooperation by acknowledging the importance of an Africa-led approach to development. He highlighted that Africa has not fully benefited from globalization and economic growth in the same way as other developing regions. However, regional integration efforts including trade blocs could help address challenges by extending domestic markets and enabling countries to better capitalize on economic opportunities through cooperation rather than competing interests of foreign entities. While regional approaches show promise, Laurent noted transportation infrastructure and costs present major barriers to realizing their full benefits for development in Africa.
TLG Capital is an investment company focused on growth capital investments in Africa and frontier markets. It invests across the capital structure in sectors catering to consumers, to leverage rising consumer classes. TLG operates in the "missing middle" space, providing funding for businesses too large for microfinance but too small or risky for banks. It also looks to migrate profitable business models from markets like India to Africa. TLG's past investments include pharmaceutical, medical, food, and financial services companies in countries like Uganda, Ghana, and Liberia.
Editorial: How Africa Natural Resources can drive Industrial Revolution, Nove...Africa Cheetah Run
Africa has a variety of Natural Resources which in return can be used to drive Industrial Revolution. Gold is among the resources spurring economic growth in Africa. To ensure equality Governments should tackle inequality and lay framework for supportive policies.
On Monday, September 26, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield delivered opening remarks for the 2016 Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum. The following is an excerpt of her remarks. Since 2000, AGOA has been the cornerstone of U.S. economic policy in Africa. The annual AGOA Forum serves as the premier event that brings together African Trade Ministers with U.S. counterparts to discuss how we can work together to enhance our trade and investment relationship.
1. Avelgood Apps, based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, has created several mobile apps including tools and flashlight apps that have won awards and millions of downloads.
2. Their new Twiggle app allows users to identify birds by recording their songs or entering physical characteristics, and aims to expand their audience globally among bird lovers.
3. Twiggle is available for free on Apple and Windows platforms, and an Android version is in development, as the company seeks to grow beyond its base in the northern hemisphere.
The document discusses the situation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. Some key points:
- MSMEs make up over 99% of total enterprises in the Philippines and employ over 60% of the workforce. However, they face numerous constraints to growth.
- Compared to other ASEAN countries, the Philippines receives average scores on supporting policies for SMEs, indicating areas like business registration could be improved.
- MSMEs play an important role in the Philippine economy through job creation, rural development, and entrepreneurship. They contribute over 30% to the country's GDP.
Global luxury goods sales exceed $200 billion annually, with wealthy consumers accounting for 68% of spending and aspirationals making up 12%. However, the biggest change is the emergence of newcomers as major luxury buyers, most of whom are women ages 25-55 with medium to high incomes. These women are interested in luxury goods as status symbols and ways to feel superior, empowered, unique, and to boost their self-image and live lavish lifestyles.
Edwin Laurent opened remarks at a conference on economic potential for Africa's regional trade cooperation by acknowledging the importance of an Africa-led approach to development. He highlighted that Africa has not fully benefited from globalization and economic growth in the same way as other developing regions. However, regional integration efforts including trade blocs could help address challenges by extending domestic markets and enabling countries to better capitalize on economic opportunities through cooperation rather than competing interests of foreign entities. While regional approaches show promise, Laurent noted transportation infrastructure and costs present major barriers to realizing their full benefits for development in Africa.
TLG Capital is an investment company focused on growth capital investments in Africa and frontier markets. It invests across the capital structure in sectors catering to consumers, to leverage rising consumer classes. TLG operates in the "missing middle" space, providing funding for businesses too large for microfinance but too small or risky for banks. It also looks to migrate profitable business models from markets like India to Africa. TLG's past investments include pharmaceutical, medical, food, and financial services companies in countries like Uganda, Ghana, and Liberia.
This paper argues that SMEs are indeed engine of growth in most economies of the world, including Nigeria and goes further to propose strategies for propelling the sector for stellar and optimal performance
The document discusses how international businesses are increasingly engaged in competition and conflicts over finite natural resources as consumption rises globally. It notes that China in particular has aggressively acquired resources in places like the Middle East and Africa. This resource grab has geopolitical implications and risks escalating into conflicts if not addressed through cooperation between nations. International businesses are now actively partnering with their home governments in the global pursuit of resources.
This document provides information about the magazine "This Is Africa". It examines Africa's evolving global relationships and how new relationships are developing across business, policy, and development. The magazine helps inform senior politicians and business leaders engaging with Africa through interviews, commentary, and analysis. It provides indispensable business information and networking opportunities for those understanding Africa's strategic importance. The magazine focuses on relationships Africa is forging worldwide and how emerging markets are reshaping the continent's role. It speaks to influential figures to understand trends defining Africa's 21st century development.
Jean-Claude Bastos de Morais shares his views on African innovation and the developments in the region's VC and banking sector in a recent interview with Banker Africa, a publication of CPI Financial. Read the full interview here.
Globalization can have both positive and negative economic impacts. For companies, it can lead to higher profits and market share by accessing new markets and resources, but it also increases competition which can reduce profits for some. For individuals, globalization allows for higher incomes by accessing jobs overseas but it also increases competition and risks of job losses for some. Countries can benefit from economic growth through trade and investment, but they also face risks of economic downturns spreading from other interconnected economies.
Human Development and Gender Inclusive Growth
Paper presented by
Dr. Vibhuti Patel, Director, PGSR
Prof. & HOD, University Department of Economics,
SNDT Women’s University, Smt. Thakersey Road, Churchgate, Mumbai-400020
Phone-26770227®, 22052970 Mobile-9321040048
E mail:vibhuti.np@gmail.com
Introduction
Concept of Human Development indicates that the real aim of development is to improve the quality of human life. It is a process that enables human beings to realize their potential, build self-confidence and lead lives of dignity and fulfilment. Economic growth is an important component of development, but it cannot be a goal in itself, nor can it go on indefinitely. Although people differ in the goals that they would set for development, some are virtually universal. These include a long and healthy life, education, access to the resources needed for a decent standard of living, political freedom, guaranteed human rights, and freedom from violence. Development is real only if it makes our lives better in all these respects.
President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed US business leaders to a roundtable discussion to strengthen economic ties between South Africa and the US. He highlighted that both countries are working to rebuild their economies following the pandemic through partnership and collaboration. South Africa views the US as a key strategic partner and trade between the countries will be important to economic recovery. South Africa is implementing economic reforms and developing infrastructure projects worth $150 billion to stimulate investment and growth as it works to create a favorable environment for businesses. Strengthening collaboration on trade, investment, skills development and reducing barriers between the US and South Africa will be vital to collective growth and prosperity.
The viability of informal micro enterprise in south africaDr Lendy Spires
This document analyzes the viability of informal micro-enterprises in South Africa's retail sector. It conducted a survey of over 700 owners of informal retail establishments like spaza shops and shebeens across South Africa in 2007. The study aims to determine if these businesses can generate an income at or above South Africa's minimum wage. It hypothesizes that access to capital, business size, gender of the owner, business training, urbanization effects, and proximity to shopping centers influence owner income and sales. Regression analysis is used to test these hypotheses and provide new evidence on the role of informal micro-enterprises in South African economic development.
This document summarizes Ernst & Young's 2013 Africa attractiveness survey. Some key points:
- While foreign direct investment projects in Africa declined in 2012, Africa's overall growth story remains strong, with its economy tripling in size since 2000. However, FDI numbers do not fully capture broader economic trends.
- FDI from emerging markets into Africa grew over 20% annually since 2007, compared to only 8% from developed markets. Intra-African investment grew over 30% annually. South Africa has been a major investor driving these trends.
- Investment is shifting toward sub-Saharan Africa and away from North Africa. It is also diversifying beyond natural resources into services, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
Informal employment refers to jobs or activities in the production and commercialisation of legal goods and services that are not registered or protected by the state. Informal workers are excluded from social security benefits and the protection afforded by formal labour contracts. The majority of them cannot opt for scarce better jobs in the formal sector. Others voluntarily opt out of the formal system. For them, the savings from being completely or partly informal – no social security contributions, no tax payments, no binding labour regulations, and more freedom for business activities – outweigh the benefits accrued through registration and compliance. The prevalence of informal employment in the developing world is striking. Even before the current crisis, over half of non-agricultural jobs there could be considered informal.
Choice of succession in african and asian owned businessJohn Johari
This document summarizes a study on the growth, sustainability, and inhibiting factors of family owned businesses in southeast Nigeria. The study examined 250 small business owners and executives in the region. It found that many family owned businesses suffer from a lack of planning, basic information, political awareness, choosing the wrong business line, and poor bookkeeping. This often leads to businesses starting and failing, rarely succeeding beyond the original owner. The document recommends that business owners invest heavily in training to develop management skills and adapt to Nigeria's changing business environment in order to improve sustainability and growth of family owned businesses in the region.
- Entrepreneurial SMEs are just as important to economies as larger corporations, contributing around 50% of turnover in Western economies.
- A Regus survey found that while entrepreneurial economic performance has stabilized with revenues up 6% globally, profits remained flat.
- However, optimism for growth was shown as 40% of entrepreneurs planned to hire new staff in the next six months, a higher proportion than larger businesses. Countries like China and India reported strong revenue and profit growth among entrepreneurs.
Smes role in reduction of the unemployment problem in the area located in sa...prjpublications
This study examines the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in reducing unemployment in northern Saudi Arabia. It analyzes survey responses from 1,370 SME workers. The study finds: 1) SMEs positively contribute to economic development and solving unemployment; 2) Low SME salaries discourage local workers; 3) Government support is needed to encourage SMEs and reduce unemployment. The study recommends that the government increase SME funding, wages, and support to provide jobs and reduce unemployment in northern Saudi Arabia.
This document outlines several business opportunities in Nigeria to help drive economic change and reduce unemployment. It notes that Nigeria has a large population with many unemployed women and youth. To address this, opportunities are identified in the agro-allied sector like farming and livestock processing, manufacturing like water production and chemicals, education like skills training centers, and services like tourism. Pursuing these opportunities could create jobs, entrepreneurial activities, and positive economic and social impact.
This document provides comments on Australia's Agricultural Competitiveness Green Paper. It argues that Australian agriculture needs a major policy shift from its current focus on production, industries and commodities, to a new focus on marketing, companies and products. Current policy has failed to improve agricultural competitiveness and has led to declining food exports, low investment, and foreign ownership of Australian farmland and food processing. The document advocates assisting farmers to improve business skills and develop new cooperative business models to better market higher value products internationally.
Agriculture is becoming more complex globally with rising standards, environmental regulations, and competition. Queensland agriculture specifically faces challenges including older farmers with limited business skills, a research system focused on commodities rather than high-value products, and declining competitiveness in some industries. To address this, the document recommends that Queensland promote training in business and IT skills for farmers, facilitate cooperative models, and focus research and development on commercializing new technologies and products to meet evolving global demand.
Agriculture is becoming more complex globally with rising standards, environmental regulations, and increasing competition. Australian agriculture specifically faces challenges including older farmers with limited business skills, a research system focused on commodities rather than high-value products, and less government support for extension services. To improve Queensland agriculture will require preparing farmers for change through education on business skills and new technologies, promoting cooperative models, and ensuring research and development leads to commercialization.
The document discusses various topics covered in the March issue of the journal "Inside Enterprise", including entrepreneurship, interviews with business leaders, and articles exploring social entrepreneurship. It provides an overview of the different sections in the issue, thanks contributors and readers, and invites others to get involved by writing for the publication or attending upcoming events.
Outback business forum proposal 25Nov15developslides
The document discusses reforms needed for the struggling Queensland grazing industry. It proposes facilitating the consolidation of small farms into larger corporate structures through new cooperatives, mergers, and investment vehicles. This would help farms access capital, skills, and niche markets while appealing to investors. The government could catalyze this by establishing investment funds modeled after IFM Investors to provide equity funding for agricultural businesses on commercial terms. Overall the status quo is unsustainable and new approaches are needed to support larger, more viable farm operations.
Kenya Top 100-Online Newspaper : Kenya’s Fastest Growing Mid-Sized CompaniesEast Africa Kenya Top 100
For the sixth year running, the Kenya Top 100 survey
has once again given recognition to a section of the businesses that are behind the Kenyan economy’s phenomenal resilience. Just over two thirds of the 245 businesses that participated in the survey this year have been in business for 11 years or more with 17 per cent having been in business for more than 25 years.
Changes in legislation and consumer behavior will make addressing issues of modern slavery and human exploitation in the supply chain a key factor for businesses of all sizes in 2018. Large businesses have access to internal and contracted teams to meet their legal requirements to address modern slavery in their systems. But small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are largely unaware and unprepared to address modern slavery if they choose to, or are forced to.
SMEs are integral to global business ecosystems, domestically and as global operators. In Australia, SMEs represent 96 percent of Australian business, 40 percent of Australia’s GDP and employ up to 75 percent of Australia' s private sector workforce. Yet this huge sector has received little consideration. As a result, SMEs may be opening themselves up to brand and financial risk.
The document provides a submission for Queensland's Advanced Manufacturing 10 Year Roadmap. It summarizes that Queensland needs to diversify its economy beyond natural resources and tourism to have a vibrant future. Currently, the state has a historical commodity focus that discouraged entrepreneurship. The submission outlines challenges such as the need to improve business skills, encourage collaboration between industry and universities, and provide better access to capital for growing companies. It proposes policy settings like trade missions, benchmarking programs, and initiatives to develop advanced technical and business skills in the population.
This paper argues that SMEs are indeed engine of growth in most economies of the world, including Nigeria and goes further to propose strategies for propelling the sector for stellar and optimal performance
The document discusses how international businesses are increasingly engaged in competition and conflicts over finite natural resources as consumption rises globally. It notes that China in particular has aggressively acquired resources in places like the Middle East and Africa. This resource grab has geopolitical implications and risks escalating into conflicts if not addressed through cooperation between nations. International businesses are now actively partnering with their home governments in the global pursuit of resources.
This document provides information about the magazine "This Is Africa". It examines Africa's evolving global relationships and how new relationships are developing across business, policy, and development. The magazine helps inform senior politicians and business leaders engaging with Africa through interviews, commentary, and analysis. It provides indispensable business information and networking opportunities for those understanding Africa's strategic importance. The magazine focuses on relationships Africa is forging worldwide and how emerging markets are reshaping the continent's role. It speaks to influential figures to understand trends defining Africa's 21st century development.
Jean-Claude Bastos de Morais shares his views on African innovation and the developments in the region's VC and banking sector in a recent interview with Banker Africa, a publication of CPI Financial. Read the full interview here.
Globalization can have both positive and negative economic impacts. For companies, it can lead to higher profits and market share by accessing new markets and resources, but it also increases competition which can reduce profits for some. For individuals, globalization allows for higher incomes by accessing jobs overseas but it also increases competition and risks of job losses for some. Countries can benefit from economic growth through trade and investment, but they also face risks of economic downturns spreading from other interconnected economies.
Human Development and Gender Inclusive Growth
Paper presented by
Dr. Vibhuti Patel, Director, PGSR
Prof. & HOD, University Department of Economics,
SNDT Women’s University, Smt. Thakersey Road, Churchgate, Mumbai-400020
Phone-26770227®, 22052970 Mobile-9321040048
E mail:vibhuti.np@gmail.com
Introduction
Concept of Human Development indicates that the real aim of development is to improve the quality of human life. It is a process that enables human beings to realize their potential, build self-confidence and lead lives of dignity and fulfilment. Economic growth is an important component of development, but it cannot be a goal in itself, nor can it go on indefinitely. Although people differ in the goals that they would set for development, some are virtually universal. These include a long and healthy life, education, access to the resources needed for a decent standard of living, political freedom, guaranteed human rights, and freedom from violence. Development is real only if it makes our lives better in all these respects.
President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed US business leaders to a roundtable discussion to strengthen economic ties between South Africa and the US. He highlighted that both countries are working to rebuild their economies following the pandemic through partnership and collaboration. South Africa views the US as a key strategic partner and trade between the countries will be important to economic recovery. South Africa is implementing economic reforms and developing infrastructure projects worth $150 billion to stimulate investment and growth as it works to create a favorable environment for businesses. Strengthening collaboration on trade, investment, skills development and reducing barriers between the US and South Africa will be vital to collective growth and prosperity.
The viability of informal micro enterprise in south africaDr Lendy Spires
This document analyzes the viability of informal micro-enterprises in South Africa's retail sector. It conducted a survey of over 700 owners of informal retail establishments like spaza shops and shebeens across South Africa in 2007. The study aims to determine if these businesses can generate an income at or above South Africa's minimum wage. It hypothesizes that access to capital, business size, gender of the owner, business training, urbanization effects, and proximity to shopping centers influence owner income and sales. Regression analysis is used to test these hypotheses and provide new evidence on the role of informal micro-enterprises in South African economic development.
This document summarizes Ernst & Young's 2013 Africa attractiveness survey. Some key points:
- While foreign direct investment projects in Africa declined in 2012, Africa's overall growth story remains strong, with its economy tripling in size since 2000. However, FDI numbers do not fully capture broader economic trends.
- FDI from emerging markets into Africa grew over 20% annually since 2007, compared to only 8% from developed markets. Intra-African investment grew over 30% annually. South Africa has been a major investor driving these trends.
- Investment is shifting toward sub-Saharan Africa and away from North Africa. It is also diversifying beyond natural resources into services, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
Informal employment refers to jobs or activities in the production and commercialisation of legal goods and services that are not registered or protected by the state. Informal workers are excluded from social security benefits and the protection afforded by formal labour contracts. The majority of them cannot opt for scarce better jobs in the formal sector. Others voluntarily opt out of the formal system. For them, the savings from being completely or partly informal – no social security contributions, no tax payments, no binding labour regulations, and more freedom for business activities – outweigh the benefits accrued through registration and compliance. The prevalence of informal employment in the developing world is striking. Even before the current crisis, over half of non-agricultural jobs there could be considered informal.
Choice of succession in african and asian owned businessJohn Johari
This document summarizes a study on the growth, sustainability, and inhibiting factors of family owned businesses in southeast Nigeria. The study examined 250 small business owners and executives in the region. It found that many family owned businesses suffer from a lack of planning, basic information, political awareness, choosing the wrong business line, and poor bookkeeping. This often leads to businesses starting and failing, rarely succeeding beyond the original owner. The document recommends that business owners invest heavily in training to develop management skills and adapt to Nigeria's changing business environment in order to improve sustainability and growth of family owned businesses in the region.
- Entrepreneurial SMEs are just as important to economies as larger corporations, contributing around 50% of turnover in Western economies.
- A Regus survey found that while entrepreneurial economic performance has stabilized with revenues up 6% globally, profits remained flat.
- However, optimism for growth was shown as 40% of entrepreneurs planned to hire new staff in the next six months, a higher proportion than larger businesses. Countries like China and India reported strong revenue and profit growth among entrepreneurs.
Smes role in reduction of the unemployment problem in the area located in sa...prjpublications
This study examines the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in reducing unemployment in northern Saudi Arabia. It analyzes survey responses from 1,370 SME workers. The study finds: 1) SMEs positively contribute to economic development and solving unemployment; 2) Low SME salaries discourage local workers; 3) Government support is needed to encourage SMEs and reduce unemployment. The study recommends that the government increase SME funding, wages, and support to provide jobs and reduce unemployment in northern Saudi Arabia.
This document outlines several business opportunities in Nigeria to help drive economic change and reduce unemployment. It notes that Nigeria has a large population with many unemployed women and youth. To address this, opportunities are identified in the agro-allied sector like farming and livestock processing, manufacturing like water production and chemicals, education like skills training centers, and services like tourism. Pursuing these opportunities could create jobs, entrepreneurial activities, and positive economic and social impact.
This document provides comments on Australia's Agricultural Competitiveness Green Paper. It argues that Australian agriculture needs a major policy shift from its current focus on production, industries and commodities, to a new focus on marketing, companies and products. Current policy has failed to improve agricultural competitiveness and has led to declining food exports, low investment, and foreign ownership of Australian farmland and food processing. The document advocates assisting farmers to improve business skills and develop new cooperative business models to better market higher value products internationally.
Agriculture is becoming more complex globally with rising standards, environmental regulations, and competition. Queensland agriculture specifically faces challenges including older farmers with limited business skills, a research system focused on commodities rather than high-value products, and declining competitiveness in some industries. To address this, the document recommends that Queensland promote training in business and IT skills for farmers, facilitate cooperative models, and focus research and development on commercializing new technologies and products to meet evolving global demand.
Agriculture is becoming more complex globally with rising standards, environmental regulations, and increasing competition. Australian agriculture specifically faces challenges including older farmers with limited business skills, a research system focused on commodities rather than high-value products, and less government support for extension services. To improve Queensland agriculture will require preparing farmers for change through education on business skills and new technologies, promoting cooperative models, and ensuring research and development leads to commercialization.
The document discusses various topics covered in the March issue of the journal "Inside Enterprise", including entrepreneurship, interviews with business leaders, and articles exploring social entrepreneurship. It provides an overview of the different sections in the issue, thanks contributors and readers, and invites others to get involved by writing for the publication or attending upcoming events.
Outback business forum proposal 25Nov15developslides
The document discusses reforms needed for the struggling Queensland grazing industry. It proposes facilitating the consolidation of small farms into larger corporate structures through new cooperatives, mergers, and investment vehicles. This would help farms access capital, skills, and niche markets while appealing to investors. The government could catalyze this by establishing investment funds modeled after IFM Investors to provide equity funding for agricultural businesses on commercial terms. Overall the status quo is unsustainable and new approaches are needed to support larger, more viable farm operations.
Kenya Top 100-Online Newspaper : Kenya’s Fastest Growing Mid-Sized CompaniesEast Africa Kenya Top 100
For the sixth year running, the Kenya Top 100 survey
has once again given recognition to a section of the businesses that are behind the Kenyan economy’s phenomenal resilience. Just over two thirds of the 245 businesses that participated in the survey this year have been in business for 11 years or more with 17 per cent having been in business for more than 25 years.
Changes in legislation and consumer behavior will make addressing issues of modern slavery and human exploitation in the supply chain a key factor for businesses of all sizes in 2018. Large businesses have access to internal and contracted teams to meet their legal requirements to address modern slavery in their systems. But small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are largely unaware and unprepared to address modern slavery if they choose to, or are forced to.
SMEs are integral to global business ecosystems, domestically and as global operators. In Australia, SMEs represent 96 percent of Australian business, 40 percent of Australia’s GDP and employ up to 75 percent of Australia' s private sector workforce. Yet this huge sector has received little consideration. As a result, SMEs may be opening themselves up to brand and financial risk.
The document provides a submission for Queensland's Advanced Manufacturing 10 Year Roadmap. It summarizes that Queensland needs to diversify its economy beyond natural resources and tourism to have a vibrant future. Currently, the state has a historical commodity focus that discouraged entrepreneurship. The submission outlines challenges such as the need to improve business skills, encourage collaboration between industry and universities, and provide better access to capital for growing companies. It proposes policy settings like trade missions, benchmarking programs, and initiatives to develop advanced technical and business skills in the population.
This document is a speech given by Phil Edmands, Managing Director of Rio Tinto, at the Minerals Week 2014 conference. Some key points:
- Rio Tinto employs over 22,000 people in Australia and interacts with thousands more. Regaining competitiveness is about helping people's livelihoods.
- Australia faces challenges to its competitiveness from both emerging and developed economies. Issues like taxes, industrial relations, and regulations must be addressed urgently through reform to attract investment and jobs.
- Rio Tinto paid nearly $5.7 billion in taxes to Australian governments in 2013. However, taxes are too high for industries like coal currently, and Australia risks losing investments if taxes are not balanced
The document discusses several approaches to economic development, including "trickle down" or "top down" approaches that focus on enabling large companies and wealthy individuals to thrive with the goal that their success will benefit others. Other approaches discussed include growth pole theory, grassroots or "bottom up" development that focuses on directly helping lift people out of poverty, fair trade, regional development, export-led growth, import substitution, foreign direct investment, and contrasting Keynesian and neo-liberal economic philosophies. The United Nations Millennium Development Goals are also briefly outlined.
Obstacles to the development and sustainability of the nature-based guiding i...Wildiaries
Many nature-based guiding businesses in Australia losing out to overseas competitors by not being able to work Australia-wide. Plus, over the last few years, the pool of qualified guides around Australia has dropped substantially. The recent regulation changes are despite existing businesses having built an international reputation long before they came into force. The positive news is that everyone within this important industry agrees that accreditation and permitting are both policies that can and should help secure better quality in the Australian market. Implementing some fairly simple solutions to the current problems is all that is needed.
The document discusses characteristics of Caribbean economies and economic issues they face in a globalized environment. Key characteristics include dependence on one or two exports like agriculture, small population and domestic markets, and underdeveloped secondary and tertiary sectors outside of a few larger countries. Major economic problems include low per capita incomes, large unskilled labor forces, heavy reliance on food imports, and high debt burdens. The document then examines development strategies for Caribbean economies globally, such as investing in education, export-led growth, foreign direct investment, and borrowing from international financial institutions.
An integrated economic and social strategy II 22March2016developslides
This document provides an integrated economic strategy for Australia with several policy options. It suggests Australia needs policies to encourage export-led growth, generate revenue for social programs, and reduce welfare dependency. Some key policy options proposed include developing business skills, reducing protections and subsidies for low-risk investments, accepting new service models like Uber and Airbnb, increasing infrastructure investment, and reforming various industries like agriculture to focus on businesses and exports rather than commodities. The overall goal is to create a more innovative and competitive business environment that encourages greater entrepreneurship and risk-taking.
This document introduces the concept of Marketing 3.0, which focuses on human-centricity and balancing profitability with corporate responsibility. It was originally conceptualized in Asia to reflect key business trends, including shifting economic power and a digital world changing consumer behavior. Marketing 3.0 encourages companies to market their mission, vision, and values to all stakeholders - consumers, employees, partners, and shareholders. It also addresses global issues like poverty, health, and sustainability. The book is structured to first discuss trends shaping Marketing 3.0, then how to market to each stakeholder group, and finally applications for social issues.
The document summarizes research on informal micro-enterprises in township communities in Cape Town, South Africa. Researchers identified over 3,800 businesses across different sites. The most common were liquor retailers, spaza (grocery) shops, hair salons, takeaways, and repair shops. Spaza shops and shebeens were evenly distributed within residential areas. Cultural factors influenced business types, with certain areas having more fish shops or braai meat sellers. Most businesses conflicted with land use rules.
Kilimo Endelevu Africa Journal is a smallholder farmers Journal of the ILEA / LEISA Network (Low External Input in Sustainable Agriculture) and the Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN-EA) Edited by Polycarp Otieno Onyango
The document discusses inclusive economic growth in East Asia and the Pacific. It highlights that while the region has seen tremendous economic growth, inequality remains a challenge. IFC aims to promote inclusive growth by working with the private sector to expand access to economic opportunities for poor and marginalized groups. IFC provides financing and advisory services to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. It also partners with governments and other organizations to improve conditions for strong, private sector-led growth that creates jobs and benefits more people.
The document provides comments on Australia's Energy Green Paper, finding it quite disappointing in several areas:
- It focuses mainly on coal, oil and gas mining within Australia rather than a whole-of-government approach to energy issues.
- It says little about energy efficiency and ignores significant research on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
- It ignores growing demands from supply chains for proof of environmental sustainability, including energy efficiency.
The comments suggest the Green Paper's limited scope could be addressed by closer collaboration between government departments and a greater focus on issues like energy efficiency, innovation, and the opportunities in exporting energy technologies and services.
A new approach to land clearing legislation 13Dec15developslides
This document discusses a new approach to vegetation management legislation in Queensland, Australia. It argues that past legislation either banned all clearing or gave too much freedom without environmental standards. It proposes legislation based on international standards and science that allows higher agricultural production while protecting the environment. This could be achieved by incorporating advances in precision agriculture and growing trends of large purchasers only buying from sustainable producers. The legislation would be science-based, auditable, and meet customer requirements, making it harder to challenge.
This document proposes merging the electricity distribution assets of Queensland and New South Wales into a government-owned energy enterprise that could also operate as an international energy services company. It provides examples of government-owned energy companies like Singapore Power, EDF, and Vattenfall that successfully operate electricity, gas, and other energy infrastructure both domestically and abroad. The document argues that a large Australian government-owned energy company could help smaller renewable energy and efficiency companies break into international markets and extract greater value from energy infrastructure than privatizing assets through short-term leases.
This document discusses how science alone is not enough to address issues in agriculture and identifies four key areas that need to be addressed: corruption, facilitating international investment, improving farm business models, and developing ethical supply chains. It lists numerous groups working in each of these areas around the world, from Transparency International addressing corruption to IDH and Global GAP working on sustainable supply chains. The document concludes by calling for action to build networks with these groups to identify funding, problems, partners, and improve implementation of projects.
Agriculture – Change or be forced to Change Sept15developslides
This document discusses the need for change in the agriculture industry to take advantage of opportunities in Asia and niche markets. It notes that farmers will need to get larger and form cooperatives to achieve economies of scale, consistent supply, and attract investment. Several analysts are cited saying that most current government policies support small farms but that the industry needs fewer but larger, more profitable and self-reliant farms working together in cooperatives. The document advocates completely rethinking the industry, regulations, and business models to enable it to better adapt to changing conditions.
This document proposes a new business model for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Australia. It suggests splitting CSIRO into two groups - one for basic research on issues of national importance, and one for applied research and seeking large contracts with Australian and international companies. This would allow CSIRO to continue high-level research while improving economic returns. The proposal also calls for parallel reforms and programs to business skills, international trade, agriculture, and links with other applied research groups.
This document provides a submission in response to a consultation paper on developing a biomanufacturing industry in Queensland. It makes the following key points:
- While Queensland has opportunities in biomanufacturing, given that facilities will likely be owned by foreign multinationals, the main challenge is ensuring significant economic benefits beyond just lower-paid jobs.
- The main challenges are business development issues of attracting investment and developing local companies in this sector, rather than science/technology issues, as Queensland currently lacks companies capable of leading in this area internationally.
- Support from government could include resolving disputes between cane growers and millers, facilitating partnerships between farmers and potential investors, and developing a supportive policy environment and
The document discusses the challenges facing agriculture to meet increasing global food demand while using fewer resources and addressing ethical concerns. It notes that food production and exports in Australia have been declining while imports are rising. To succeed, Australian agriculture needs to adopt more sustainable and scientific practices, focus on high-value products tailored to specific markets rather than commodities, and form stronger business partnerships along the supply chain. This will allow farmers to reduce costs through precision agriculture while boosting yields and incomes.
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JOHN HINE AND ASSOCIATES PTY LTD
www.developqld.net.au
KEY ISSUES FOR REGIONAL AUSTRALIA
13 September 2015
Summary
Changes in agriculture and tourism markets are changing rapidly. New opportunities are growing but
traditional industry structures may find it difficult to cope in this new environment.
Attempts to preserve existing industry structures are only likely to cause existing farmers and tourism operators
even more stress. Assisting these people and companies to change and adapt is likely to be the best way to
reduce personal and business stress, allow new or changed businesses to establish, save regional jobs and
maintain or improve regional prosperity.
Background
There are many stories about economic and social stress in regional Australia. These include reference to:
A tragic level of suicides.
On-goingstoriesof paralysingdebtlevels, while atthe same time there are storiesfromthe bankssayingthat
debtlevelsare nothigh.
Regional towns are losingpopulationandwithagrowing percentage of olderpeople. These towns tendtobe
those furtherwestof the DividingRange egLongreach.
The average age of our farmersisrising.
It isclaimedthatmany farmershave a probleminthattheyhave no successionplans. A US teacher’s
superannuationfund,TIAA-CREF,hasopenedanoffice inSydneytotake advantage of Australianfarm
propertiescomingonthe marketasolderfarmershave no successionplan.
Many regional manufacturershave closedoverrecenttimes,includingabattoirs.
On-goingproblemswithdrought.
Miningopenednewopportunitiesforsome areabutthe slow-downinthe miningindustryseemstobe having
majorimpactson such townsegChinchilla.
Other regional issues include;
Some regional townsclosertocapital citiesare doingwell,egOrange. These regionsoftenhave afocuson
value addedfoodproducts aimedatcitycustomers ratherthan commodities.
Foodexportsare fallingwhilefoodimportsare rising.
All the indicationsare thatopportunitiesforfood exportstoAsiaare growing.
The level of skillsinregional Australiaisoftenlowerthanforthe restof Australia.
Many touristsare seekingnew experiences,openingopportunitiesforexperience tourismrelatedto ourflora
and fauna,indigenousculture andAustralianbushculture.
Australiansuperannuationfundsseemtobe lessinterestedininvestinginagriculture whileinternational
superannuationfundsandinstitutionalinvestorsseemtobe investingreadilyinAustralianagriculture.
Tel: 07 3264 4568
Mob: 0432 027 744
Email: john@developqld.net.au
ABN: 67 157 769 901
74 Ballinger Crescent
Albany Creek Qld 4035
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Many casual labourersinregional townsare backpackers. Inparticular,thisincludesfruitpickers.
It isclaimedthatthere isa gap inworkersneededtofill keyskilledpositions,includingagricultural scientists.
Many farm organisationsclaimmajorgapsin infrastructure.
Key historical issues affecting agriculture include;
Statutorymarketingauthoritiesledtoafocus oncommodities,ratherthanproducts, andlow businessskillsin
our farmers. Examplesof thisinclude hamburgerbeefratherthanspecificcutsof beef aimedatspecificsocio-
economicgroupsandbulkwheatratherthan specificwheatvarietiesforindividualprocessors.
Too manyfarmersdidnot developalternative marketing structuresonce marketingboardswere phasedout.
Our highnumberof smallerfarmsmeansthatthese farmershave trouble beingprofitable,accessingcapital,
usingmoderntechnologies andacquiringthe skillsrequiredtocope.
Importquotas,tariffsandbiosecuritybarriersgave alevel of importprotectionthat limitedinnovation.
Thislack of businessskillsinourfarmingcommunitycontributedtothe steadylossof ourvalue adding
operations,egabattoirsanddairyprocessing,tointernational companies.
Issues impacting on agriculture include:
Ethical agriculture isof risingimportance. Thisincludesenvironmentalissues,animal welfare,GMOsetc.
A whole range of newtechnologiesare comingonstreamforagriculture,includingprecisionagriculture,
controlledtrafficfarming,remote sensing,robotics,dronesand electronicsensing. Thismeansthatfarmingis
an increasinglyahighlyskilled,complexindustry.
Increasingly,farmproductsare beingboughtbylarge supermarketchainsandlarge manufacturers. These need
large volumesof specificquality productsyearround. Increasingly,these are beingsuppliedbylargerfarmers
and bywholesalers. Wholesale fruitandvegetable marketsare now of much reducedimportance asthese are
generallyby-passedbythese largerfarmersandwholesalers. Cattle andsheepare oftenboughtdirectfrom
farmersratherthan at saleyards.
The AgriFoodSkillsCouncil2015 environmentscanshowedthat;
o Small niche farmers supply 5%of output
o Small to mediumcommodityfarmerssupply 15% of output
o Large familyorcorporate farmerssupply 80% of output
AlanMitchell, inthe Australian Financial Reviewof 7 July 2015 said that;
o 70% of farmersproduce 20% of output.
o He wasstronglyagainstdroughtrelief,delaysmarketadjustment
o Most current agriculture policy isfocussedonthe 70%!
Some agricultural cooperativeshave developedintothrivinginternational businessesengaginginvalue adding.
Many have closed. CooperativessuchasSunrice,Murray Goulburn,Norco,CBH seemtobe doingwell. Others
such as Mackay Sugar survive butstill have basicallyacommoditybasis.
Extensionservicestofarmersare increasinglybeingsuppliedbythe private sectorratherthanbygovernment.
Publicservants as extensionofficers will struggle tohave the commercial skillsneeded byfarmers andpeople
withsuchskillswill oftennotstayingovernmentassalariesare toolow.
Qualityandsafetyare of increasingimportance.
Trace back systemstoprove provenance are increasinglybeenrequiredbylarge customers. These systemsare
alsorelevantre biosecurity,disease control andfoodsafetyinvestigations.
The systemdeveloped byLaborGovernments inthe 1990s to fosteragricultural R&D,the Rural R&D
Corporations, isbasedonindustriesandcommodities,andnotcompaniesandproducts. Modernagriculture is
increasinglyaboutcompaniesandproducts. Australianeedsawayto allow largerfarmsandcooperativesto
do the proprietaryR&Dtheyneed. AllowingfarmersaccesstoR&D tax incentivesneedstobe investigated.
There isincreasingcompetitionincommoditymarketsfromarange of nationsegSouthAmerica, the ‘BlackSea
Nations’(Russia,Ukraine andKazakhstan).
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International agricultural issues include:
Australiahaslittle overseasinvestmentinagriculture.
Australiahasfew large agribusinesscompaniesworkinginternationally.
Australiahaslittle exportinagriculturalservices.
Singapore isa far biggerplayerininternational agribusinessthanAustralia,byvirtue of itsinternational
agribusinesscompaniessuchasWilmarandOlam.
International tourism issues include that Australia has little overseas investment in tourism and few large
tourism companies operating internationally.
Key issues regarding tourism include;
Australiaisincreasinglybecominguncompetitiveregardingvolumeorcommoditytourism. Many developing
nationsare movingintotourismandofferingcheaperbeachdestinationsclosertokeymarketsinEurope,North
AmericaandJapan. For example,Australiahaslostmuchof itsJapanese golf holidaybusinesstoThailand.
The issuesof small businessesinagricultureare similarre tourism. Thislinksto;
o Lowerbusinessskills
o Fewlarge internationaltourismbusinesses,suchasthe FrenchownedAccor hotel chain.
Too manyregionssee neighbouringregionsascompetitorsratherthatalliesindevelopinglinkedchainsof
attractionsand eventssoas to presenta‘package’todrive tourists.
Eventshave become significantopportunitiesformanysmallertowns,egthe ElvisPresleyfestival inParkesand
the melonfestival inChinchilla. These eventsare currently mainlyopportunitiesfortownswithinreasonable
drivingdistance of acapital city.
It seems tobe that marketinghasa greaterfocus thanproduct development. We alsoneedtohave niche
attractionsfor those withspecificinterests,forexample,
o Birdwatchingand otherattractionsbasedon ourfloraand flora,includingmakingbetteruse of our
national parksand otherwaysto show people ourfloraandfauna.
o Indigenousculture
o Bushculture
Actions for the Future for Regional Australia
In general, as with the rest of Australia:
Improvingbusinessskillsshouldbe akeypriority. Businessskillsprogramsneedtobe viaa range of delivery
mechanismsandnotjustbasedon currentqualificationsegcertificates, diplomas, degrees,MBAsetc.
Businessesworkingtogetherincooperativesornetworkshave real potential. Many farm and non-farm
cooperativesare large internationalbusinesses. Some 250 million people internationallyworkforcooperatives.
Focussingonproductsfor specificmarketnichesratherthanaimingatcommoditiesforvolume markets.
Environmental managementisincreasinglyacritical issue. Thisisa mix of cost reductionandpreservingthe
natural assetson whichthe businessisbased.
Highqualitybroadbandinas muchof regional Australiaaspossible,for education,health, agriculture, tourism,
miningandall otherbusinesses.
Encourage the use of renewable energythroughoutregionalAustralia,oneconomicgroundsasmuchas for
climate change reasons.
Increase the superannuationguarantee,toraise the level of fundsforinvestmentaswell asof course improving
retirementoptionsforpeople.
We needtax reformsothat;
o We nolongerprovide governmentincentivestoinvestinhousing.
o Australiansuperannuationfundsinvestmore inagriculture. Itseemsthatour superannuationfunds
investfarlessinour agriculture thandooverseassuperfunds.
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Re agriculture:
Small farmsworkingtogetherincooperativesormergingtoforma largercompany,has real potential for;
o identifyingnicheproducts.
o supplyingthe volumeneeded.
o employingthe highlevelskilledpeople,formarketing,farmtechnologyetc.
o attractingthe capital needed. Businessmodelsthatare large enoughandstructuredto allowequity
investmentratherthandebtthroughborrowingneedtobe developed. Also,equityinvestmentoften
happensonlyinlargeramountseg$25M.
We needtorecognise thatwe will increasinglystruggle tocompete incommoditymarketswithlowercost
developingnations. We thus needtofocuson productsfor niche markets. These can be quite large
opportunities.
We neednewwaysof supportingR&Dthat allow the largercooperativesormergedfarmcompaniestodo
proprietaryR&Dwhentheyneeditwithoutgoingthroughacommittee thathas six monthlyorannual rounds
and mayinclude itscompetitors. It maybe feasibletocutR&D leviesinsayhalf andallow farmsaccessto R&D
tax incentives.
Encourage regionstoform farmerowned,incorporatedR,Dand E companiessuchas with the BirchipCropping
Group inNW Victoria. Thishas some 20 employeesandfocussesonappliedresearchandextension forthat
region.
Newprogramsare neededtoassistfarmerswiththe growingrange of new technologiesbeingdevelopedfor
agriculture. These shouldbe basedmore onworkshopstoraise awarenessandtrainingprogramsratherthan
governmentextensionofficers.
Encourage our farm cooperativesandmergedfarmcompaniestoexplore overseasinvestmentinagricultural
productionandvalue adding.
We needtoexplore more waystoexportourhighlevel skillsinagriculture. Thiscouldmeanbuildingnetworks
or cooperativesamongagricultural consultantsandbuildingonthe trainingprogramsouruniversitiesetc
operate.
Explore optionsforthe use of biomanufacturinginAustralia,basedontechnologiesforextractingthe sugars
tiedupin woodywaste egbagasse andstraw. This wouldallow the production byfermentation of almostany
chemical nowmade fromoil andgas.
Make determinedeffortstodevelopopportunitiesfrom ourfree trade agreementsandotherinternational
agreements.
Re tourism
Continue andextendthe current national qualityassurance scheme intourism. We needto ensure that,as far
as possible,internationaltouristshave qualityexperiences.
Assistandencourage the developmentof new niche touristexperiencesthatincludethose basedonourunique
assets,including;
o our floraand fauna
o indigenousculture
o bushculture.
Thisproduct developmentshouldincludemore small scale environmentallysensitiveusesof ourNational Parks.
Explore newopportunitiesinfarmtourism, includingfloraandfaunaopportunities,andevenhunting,asa way
to control feral animalssuchas pigs,foxes,dogsandcats.
We needtomake more use of the highlevelsof expertise inthe publicsectorinourfloraandfauna and in
indigenousculture. Thiswouldinclude agriculture departments,CRCs,National ParksDepartmentsetc.
We needtolookat howthe R&D tax incentivecanbe modifiedforproductdevelopmentfortourismbusinesses.
Networksof tourismbusinessesshouldbe encouragedtopresentawiderrange of experiencesforinternational
touristsandcreate themeddrive tourismopportunitiesforinternational andAustraliantourists.
These networkscouldbe formal businessnetworksorevencooperatives.
Farm leasesshouldnotdiscourage farmtourism.
We needtoencourage more off-shore investmentintourism.