Economics
Page 9
Staying power
Venezuela's port town of Maracaibo has long stood out. Oil wealth means it’s set to become a Latin American hub and a major pro-commerce, anti-Chávez stronghold in forthcoming elections.
Waiting in the Isles
They’re sunny, beautiful and safe but Portugal doesn’t seem to know what to do with them. Maybe it’s time to start recognising the potential of the Azores.
Executive exodus
As Portugal faces economic ruin, thousands of its nationals are heading to skills-starved Angola for lucrative jobs. But while it boosts the former colony’s economy, will everyone there benefit?
Happy valley
The people of Yogyakarta are a contented lot. The city is not only the cultural heart of Java but, thanks to leaders who have stamped out corruption, it’s a vibrant business centre too.
Port in a storm
Fujairah, the UAE's quiet port linking the Gulf to the Indian Ocean, holds a politically strategic position. As investment rises, this once tranquil Emirate could be on the verge of a significant boom.
Northern exposure
The Chinese city of Harbin is quickly establishing itself as a regional power, bringing in investment and cashing in on its food and fashion. It’s proving that it’s far from grim up north.
Asia
The view from Kabul, the Taiwanese president's modest motorcade and health insurance for Tibetan monks.
A silver lining
Monocle cracks the mysterious and intriguing world of safes and vaults by paying a visit to family-owned locksmiths Parma Antonio & Figli. Fortuitously the Italian economic situation is working in their favour.
Well oiled
Ghana is drilling for oil and the government has a plan to avoid the “resource curse”. In Accra the mood is optimistic as new wealth looks set to revitalise an already culturally rich location.
Ethics work
Germany’s economic status exceeds its place in the world power order. With a touching lack of marketing sophistication and sturdy business values, Europe’s powerhouse has achieved soft power almost by accident.
