Dubai Investments (DI) International is considering expanding into Africa and Asia. It is looking to do this through partnerships across the regions as well as possibly participating in commercial projects throughout the Middle Eastern region. This is in the midst of DI International’s negotiations with potential partners in Libya and Iraq to develop a business park like the Dubai Investments Park (DIP) that already exists.
According to the company’s CEO and Managing Director, Khalid Bin Kalban, establishing the firm was just the “first step” in expansion into the global market. The next step is negotiating with potential entrepreneurial companies throughout a wide range of sectors to “consolidate [its position as an important international player.” This is in conjunction with replicating the successful DIP model.
Within the last five years, exports from DI have escalated more than 129 percent. Thus now the time is ripe for moving forward – globally.
Asia Investments: Pros and Cons
According to Sharat Shroff of Matthews Asia, there are obstacles investors have encountered vis-à-vis Asia investment opportunities. These include: the large Korean conglomerate domination of the market, the very specific – and thus elite – business landscape, etc. In other words, Asia needs to begin expanding its industry diversity. Shroff maintains that this IS happening, but slowly, although the trend is likely to continue. Right now, Thailand is a good place to start given that the Thailand Bangkok SET index doubled from October 2011 to May 2013.
For those looking into S.E Asia, the private equity market is good. 2013 saw its highest level in five years, reaching $2.19bn. In addition, according to Towry head of investment Andrew Wilson, the fact that the sterling is currently so strong means that investors can purchase inexpensive assets in the region at better prices. Still, it should be noted that there are risks within this region, so all factors need to be properly considered.