Special economic zones are being developed across Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent states. Their success will rest on their ability to overcome bureaucracy and customs issues. Jason Mitchell reports on the effects across the region.

Thailand's recently announced tax incentives for companies setting up headquarters could give a much-needed boost to the country's slowing economy. But in a region where there is already stiff competition attracting multinational corporations, succeeding in this new sector will not be easy. 

India’s new business-friendly government is looking to tackle the country's infrastructure problems as part of its plans to boost economic growth. But will the planned spending be enough to support its expanding manufacturing and service industries, or will outside funding be needed?

Fashion brand Uniqlo, part of Fast Retailing, the world's fourth largest retail holding company, has expanded rapidly in recent decades, both at home and abroad. It is a success story – with highs as well as lows – that CEO Tadashi Yanai is urging the Japanese government to learn from.  

With many of the big global cities struggling with infrastructure problems, rising wages and high office and land costs, investors are increasingly looking to smaller second- and third-tier cities in which to base themselves. But where are the emerging urban areas that are posing a threat to their larger counterparts?