The Belgian region of Wallonia has set itself a target of becoming Europe's most attractive logistics hub by 2020. While this may appear a little ambitious, large companies are increasingly investing in the area, drawn to its pro-business environment, highly skilled workforce and excellent links to the rest of Europe.

The agri-food business has acquired a mixed reputation over the past few years, with many in emerging markets claiming that the demands placed upon it are unrealistic. However, the issue of feeding the world's growing population is not going to go away, and those well placed to meet these demands will be the ones to profit.

Malaysia's excellent economic performance in recent years has come on the back of its Economic Transformation Programme. Its prime minister and finance minister Dato’ Sri Abdul Tun Najib Razak tells Barbara Njau how the programme has helped diversify the country's economy, which has continued to thrive while much of the rest of the world has struggled.

The Italian region of Tuscany's rich heritage means that its name is still synonymous with great minds such as Galileo Galilei and Leonardo da Vinci. Such a history of innovation is something the region continues to pride itself upon, and this quality is not lost upon the many foreign companies that have set up shop within its boundaries.

The close relationship between industry and research and education institutions in Tuscany gives the region an edge when it comes to R&D and innovation.

Chengdu is establishing itself as an investment hub in western China. The city already has established automotive and bio-pharmaceutical industries, while its growing population is increasingly attracting the attention of the multinational retail brands.

(Photo, left: Chengdu at night copyright: Zhang dezhong)

The Chengdu government's long-term focus on the high-tech industries appears to be paying off, as its technology parks are attracting international names brought in by the city's pro-business attitude and deep talent pool.