Blog Posts

The region’s economies are at a crossroads.

Spanning Pakistan to Morocco, MENAP represents 8.5% of the world’s population. But we only generate 3.4% of global GDP, with just two of our companies making it into the Fortune 500. Estimated growth in 2019 amounted to just 1%, and the outlook across the region remains one of low to no growth.

The impact of climate change on our societies has been growing at an alarming rate, resulting in a need to transition nations towards green and low-carbon economies. To address the current environmental challenges, researchers estimate a funding gap of around US$200 billion to US$1,000 billion annually . Much of the investment is needed to cover infrastructure needs. In 2015, it was estimated that an annual gap of US$1 trillion is needed to build regular infrastructure projects. Back then, only 7-13% of infrastructure projects were low-carbon and climate-change resilient (LCR) .

As the world is transformed by seismic developments around technology, climate and the need for more inclusive economic and social systems, there is a real risk that many in the Middle East will miss out on the opportunities these momentous shifts present, given the current geopolitical uncertainty about the region.

The story behind tapping the potential for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MENAP) region is rather similar to the popular children’s tale of a small plucky train, a stalled locomotive, and challenging terrain.

- A thriving private sector is essential to drive sustainable economic growth.
- Economic integration will make MENAP a more competitive region.
- Selective deregulation, free movement of resources and common standards will encourage economic integration.

After an admittedly nervous start, 2019 became another record year for global theatrical receipts, following on from record 2018 results. As the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) highlighted at CinemaCon this year, global box office sales of US$41.7bn for 2018 had increased 32% since 2010. To see such robust box office growth at international level, reinforces our optimism for the industry’s future; and this optimism is predicated upon the belief that industry players will continue to work collaboratively to enhance cinematic content, ensure targeted distribution and constantly innovate our experiences.

- Retailers have a unique opportunity to encourage behavioural change.
- The key is to make it easier for consumers to make better choices.
- The prize can be healthier and more sustainable lifestyles for all.