The Argentine Republic is located in Southern South America bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil, and Bolivia. It is the second largest country in South America and covers an area of 8,511,965 sq. kilometers about three-tenths the size of the US.  Argentina’s total population is 40.9 million and is growing at a rate of 1.053% with 92% living in urban areas. 

The Commonwealth of Australia is located on the continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific. It is the world’s smallest continent but the sixth-largest country. It is slightly smaller than the continental US and covers an area of 7,686,850 sq. kilometers.  Australia’s total population is 21.26 million and is concentrated along the eastern coastline. The population is growing at about 1.2% with 89% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Canberra has a population of 340,000 with other main cities including Sydney (4.3 mil), Melbourne (3.8 mil), Brisbane (1.9 mil), and Perth (1.6 mil). The people are governed by a federal parliamentary democracy and a Commonwealth realm. The primary language is English and the currency used is the Australian dollar.

Australia has a strong economy on par with the Western Powers but offers a unique opportunity for trade with Asia due to its close proximity. Its main trade partners are China, Japan, and USA with other trade partners including South Korea, Singapore, UK, India and New Zealand. Its primary imports are machinery and transport equipment, computer and office machines, telecommunication equipment, and crude oil and petroleum products. Exports consist of coal, iron ore, gold, meat, wool, alumina, and wheat. Australia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $800.5 billion and is growing at a real rate of 2.2% with an inflation rate of 4.7%. Australia ranked 9^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Austria’s present boundaries encompass 83,870 square kilometers and were established in 1919 at the Treaty of St. Germain. Its strategic location contains the north/south routes between Germany and Italy and the southwest routes into Western Europe. The capital city is Vienna, with a population of 1.68 million, and the primary language is German. Austria’s total population is about 8.21 million and is growing at 0.052% with 67% living in urban areas. The people are governed by a federal parliamentary democracy and are predominately Roman Catholic. Austria joined the European Union in 1995 and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Austria’s primary trading partners are the European Union, namely Germany, along with Switzerland, the U.S. and China. Exports include iron and steel products, timber, paper, textiles, machinery and foodstuffs. Imports consist primarily of machinery and equipment, fuels, vehicles, chemicals and foodstuffs. Austria’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $325 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.6% with an inflation rate of 3.7%. Austria ranked 27^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Bahrain Bahrain is an archipelago located in the Persian Gulf in the Middle East, occupying 760 sq. kilometers (about 3.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.)  It has a total population of 1.21 million, growing at a rate of 2.814%. 

The Kingdom of Belgium shares its borders with France, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. It is about the size of Maryland and covers an area of 30,528 sq. kilometers.  Belgium’s total population is 10.4 million and is growing at about 0.094% with 97% living in urban areas. The official languages are Dutch (60%), French (40%) and German (less than 1%). The capital city of Brussels has a population of 1.03 million and is legally bilingual (French, Dutch). The people are governed by a federal parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarch and are predominantly Roman Catholic. Belgium was one of the six founding members of the European Union and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

About 75 percent of Belgium’s trade is with other European Union countries and other trade partner’s include the United States and China. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, chemical products, diamonds, pharmaceuticals, and oil products. Exports consist of transportation equipment, diamonds, and metals and metal products. Belgium’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $390.5 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.3% with an inflation rate of 4.5%. Belgium ranked 19^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Federative Republic of Brazil is located in Eastern South America bordering the Atlantic Ocean and every country in South America except Chile and Ecuador. It is the largest country in South America and covers an area of 8,511,965 sq. kilometers.  Brazil’s total population is 198 million and is growing at a rate of 1.199% with 86% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Brasilia has a population of 2.5 million with other main cities including Sao Paulo (10.9 mil), Rio de Janeiro (6.1 mil), Belo Horizonte (2.4 mil), and Salvador (2.9 mil). The people are governed by a federal republic and the official language used is Portuguese. The currency used is the Brazilian Real.

With its abundance of natural resources, large labor force, and strong agricultural, manufacturing, and service sectors, Brazil has the strongest economy in South America and is becoming more and more dominant in the world markets. Its main trade partners are the US, Argentina, China, Germany, Netherlands, and Nigeria. Its primary imports are machinery, electrical and transport equipment, chemical products, oil, and automotive parts. Exports consist of transport equipment, iron ore, soybeans, footwear, coffee, and autos. Brazil’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.99 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 5.2% with an inflation rate of 5.8%. Brazil ranked 125^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to concerns with corruption and strict government regulations on business.

The Republic of Bulgaria is located in Southeastern Europe bordering Romania, Turkey, Greece, Macedonia, and Serbia, and the Black Sea. It is about the size of Tennessee and covers an area of 110,910 sq. kilometers.  Bulgaria’s total population is about 7.2 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.79% with 71% living in urban areas.  The Bulgarian capital of Sofia has a population of about 1.2 million with other major cities including Plovdiv (368,000) and Varna (349,000). The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy, are a predominately Bulgarian Orthodox, and the primary language is Bulgarian. Bulgaria joined NATO in 2004 and joined the EU in 2007. The local currency used is the Bulgarian Lev with plans to adopt the Euro by 2012-13.

Bulgaria’s economy has improved greatly in the past decade and has begun attracting more foreign investment.  Membership in the EU will be beneficial to the economy but there still remain concerns about corruption and organized crime. Its main trade partners are Germany, Turkey, Russia, Italy, Greece, Ukraine, Romania, and Austria. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, metals and ores, chemicals, plastics, fuels, minerals, and raw materials. Exports consist of clothing, footwear, iron and steel, machinery and equipment, and fuels. Bulgaria’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $93.78 billion and is growing at a real rate of 6% with an inflation rate of 7.8%. Bulgaria ranked 45^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Canada is located just north of the US and has a strategic location between Russia and the US. It is slightly larger than the US and covers an area of 9,984,670 sq. kilometers.  Canada’s total population is 33.49 million with 90% of the population being concentrated within 160 km of the US border. The population is growing at a rate of 0.817% with 80% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Ottawa has a population of 1.1 million with other main cities including Toronto (5.1 mil), Montreal (3.6 mil), Vancouver (2.1 mil), and Calgary (1.1 mil). The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy, a federation, and a Commonwealth realm. Canada has two official languages, English and French, with French speakers being concentrated in the regions of Quebec and Eastern Ontario. The currency used is the Canadian dollar.

Canada has developed parallel with the US since gaining independence and it has strong economic ties to the US. Canada’s involvement in the US-Canada Free Trade Agreement and NAFTA have even further integrated it with the US economy and about 80% of its exports and 55% of its imports come from the US. Other than the US, its main trade partners are China, UK, and Mexico. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, motor vehicles and parts, crude oil, electricity, and durable consumer goods. Exports consist of motor vehicles and parts, industrial machinery, aircraft, telecommunications equipment, along with wood pulp, timber, crude petroleum, natural gas, and aluminum. Canada’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.3 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 0.6% with an inflation rate of 1%. Canada ranked 8^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Chile is located in Southern South America along the west coast, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. Chile is about double the size of California and covers an area of 756,950 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 16.6 million and is growing at a rate of 0.881% with 88% living in urban areas.  The capital of Santiago has a population of 6.25 million with other main cities including Concepcion-Talcahuano (840,000) and Vina del Mar-Valparaiso (800,000). The people are governed by a republic and are predominantly Roman Catholic. The official language is Spanish and the currency used is the Chilean Peso.

Chile has a stable market economy based on a high level of foreign trade, with exports accounting for 40% of GDP and copper being the biggest export.  Chile’s stable economy and free trade agreements make it an ideal place for foreign investment, with foreign investments having quadrupled in the past 5 years.  Chile’s main trade partners are the US, China, Brazil, Japan, Argentina, Netherlands, South Korea, and Italy. Its primary imports are petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, electronics and telecommunications equipment, and industrial machinery. Exports include copper, fruit, fish products, paper and pulp, chemicals, and wine. Chile’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $245.3 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4% with an inflation rate of 8.8%. Chile ranked 40^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

 The People’s Republic of China is located in Eastern Asia bordered by Russia to the North, the East China Sea, Korea, and Japan to the East, India and the Middle East to the West, and Vietnam and South-East Asia in the South. It is slightly smaller than the US and covers an area of 9,596,960 sq. kilometers.  China’s total population is about 1.34 billion and growing at about 0.655% with 43% living in urban areas.  The capital of China is Beijing which has a population of about 13 million. Other major cities include Shanghai (16 mil), Guangzhou (11 mil), Shenzhen (8.5 mil), and Tianjin (8.2 mil). China is a communist state with the primary language being Mandarin and the local currency being the Chinese Yuan.

China has gone through major economic reforms in the past 30 years in order to compete better on a global scale. These reforms have allowed for a rapidly growing Chinese economy which is now the second-largest in the world based on GDP (Purchasing Power Parity). Its main trade partners are the US, Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan and Germany. Its primary imports are electrical and other machinery, oil and mineral fuels, and optical and medical equipment. Exports consist of electrical and other machinery including data processing equipment, along with apparel, textiles, iron and steel. China’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $7.8 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 9.8% with an inflation rate of 6%. China ranked 83^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking mostly due to government restraints.

The Republic of Colombia is located in Northern South America bordering Venezuela, Panama, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, the Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. It is about twice the size of Texas and covers an area of 1,138,910 sq. kilometers.  Colombia’s total population is 45.64 million and is growing at a rate of 1.377% with 74% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Bogata has a population of 6.7 million with other main cities including Medellin, Cali, Barranquilla, and Cartagena. The people are governed by a republic and are predominantly Roman Catholic. The official language used is Spanish and the currency used is the Colombian Peso.

Colombia’s economy has experienced a period of accelerated growth since a 2002 with an average of 7% annual growth.  Since 2002, unemployment has reduced by 25% and poverty has been cut by 20%. Its main trade partners are the US, Venezuela, China, Mexico, Brazil, and Ecuador. Its primary imports are industrial equipment, transportation equipment, consumer goods, chemicals, paper products, fuels, and electricity. Exports consist of petroleum, coffee, coal, nickel, emeralds, apparel, bananas, and cut flowers. Colombia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $399.4 billion and is growing at a real rate of 3.5% with an inflation rate of 7.7%. Colombia ranked 53^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Croatia is located in Southeastern Europe bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, and the Adriatic Sea. Croatia is about the size of West Virginia and covers an area of 56,542 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 4.49 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.052% with 57% living in urban areas.  The capital of Zagreb has a population of 779,000 with other main cities including Split (1.36 mil) and Rijeka (144,000), and Osijek (114,000). The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Croatian and the local currency is the Croatian Kuna.

Croatia’s economy has achieved steady growth in the past decade and has a good long term outlook especially with the possibility of EU accession.  Currently Croatia is fairly dependent on tourism revenues and unemployment remains a problem.  Croatia’s main trade partners are Italy, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Russia, Austria, and China. Its primary imports are machinery, transport and electrical equipment, chemicals, fuels and lubricants, and foodstuffs. Exports include transport equipment, machinery, textiles, chemicals, foodstuffs, and fuels. Croatia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $73.36 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.8% with an inflation rate of 6.3%. Croatia ranked 106^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Introducing Cyprus…

The Republic of Cyprus is an eastern Mediterranean island strategically located at the crossroads of three continents; Europe, Asia, and Africa.   A European Union member since May 1, 2004 and a member of the Euro-Zone since January 1, 2008 Cyprus also enjoys excellent business relations and flight connections with the Middle East.  Cyprus enjoys a strong economy despite the recent worldwide economic downturn and its growth was less affected than most thanks to conservative government fiscal management and industry focus on financial services and tourism.  The country enjoys low inflation and low unemployment rates and consumer purchasing power is high at an estimated per capita GDP of US$30,744 in 2008.  With the lowest corporate tax rate in the European Union (EU) at only 10%, the island is an ideal jurisdiction for Holding Companies.  Moreover, it has over 40 bilateral tax treaties, including with the United States.  Cyprus has no withholding tax imposed on dividend income, interest, or royalty payments effected to non-Cypriot beneficiaries.  Profits from overseas permanent establishments are tax exempt.  In the World Bank “Ease of Doing Business” survey, Cyprus ranked 40^th out of 183 nations. 

The banking, accounting, legal, and financial services are extremely efficient and one of the strong points of the economy.  The labor force is largely multilingual and highly qualified and the labor costs are low compared to the EU average.  Cyprus has an advanced telecommunications network and infrastructure, as well as, a wide network of air-routes offering excellent connections with Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as modern ports and first-rate sea connectivity. Cyprus ranks among the 10 leading maritime nations in the world and is a highly reputable international shipping center with a merchant fleet exceeding 21 million gross tonnage (accounting for 16% of the EU fleet) and nearly 2000 vessels.  It constitutes one of the largest ship-management centers in the world with around 50 ship-management companies and marine-related foreign enterprises that conduct their international activities in the country.  Cyprus has also developed into a transshipment center for Asia Pacific trade with Europe and with shipping markets situated along the coasts of the Levant and Black Sea, or the North Adriatic.  The island is a natural hub for other main-line deep sea trades passing through the Mediterranean, to North Africa and the Middle East. 

The Czech Republic shares its borders with Austria, Germany, Poland and Slovakia and covers an area of 78,866 sq. kilometers about the size of Virginia.  Czech Republic’s total population is 10.21 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.094% with 73% living in urban areas. The capital city of Prague has a population of 1.21 million and the official language is Czech. The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy and the majority  are unaffiliated to any  religious group. The Czech Republic joined the European Union in 2004, but currently uses the Czech koruna as currency targeting to join the Euro zone by 2012.

The Czech Republic has one of the most stable economies in Eastern Europe and its central location in Europe and low-cost structure makes it an attractive country to do business.  Most of Czech Republic’s trade is with other countries in Europe, mainly Germany, but also including Slovakia, Poland, Netherlands, France, UK, Italy, and Austria, along with China and Russia outside of Europe. Its primary imports and exports consist of machinery and transport equipment, raw materials and fuels, and chemicals. Czech Republic’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $266.3 billion and is growing at a real rate of 3.9% with an inflation rate of 3.6%. Czech Republic ranked 73^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of Denmark is located on a peninsula in Northern Europe just southwest of Sweden bordering Germany, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. It is about twice the size of Massachusetts and covers an area of 43,094 sq. kilometers.  Denmark’s total population is about 5.5 million and is heavily concentrated in the area surrounding the capital. The population is growing at a rate of 0.28% with 87% living in urban areas.  The Danish capital of Copenhagen has a population of about 1.1 million with other major cities including Arhus (293,000), Odense (185,000), and Aalborg (163,000). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are predominately Evangelical Lutheran. The primary language is Danish with small minorities of the population using Faroese or Greenlandic. English is the predominant second language of Denmark and many citizens understand German and French as well. Denmark joined the EU in 1973, but currently uses the Danish Krone after opting out of adopting the Euro.  Recently rumors have surfaced about the possibility of Denmark voting on a referendum to adopt the Euro as early as 2010.

Denmark has a strong modern economy heavily based in foreign trade. Denmark is one of the most stable countries in the EU both politically and economically with a GDP per capita comparable to the other European powers and is known to have some of the best living conditions in the world.  Its main trade partners are Germany, Sweden, UK, Netherlands, Norway, France, Italy, US and China. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, raw materials and semi-manufactures for industry, chemicals, grains and foodstuffs, and consumer goods. Exports consist of machinery and instruments, meat and meat products, dairy products, fish, pharmaceuticals, furniture, and windmills. Denmark’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $204.9 billion and is shrinking at a real rate of 0.6% with an inflation rate of 3.5%. Denmark ranked 5^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Dominican Republic is located on the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean bordering Haiti. The Dominican Republic is about twice the size of New Hampshire and covers an area of 48,730 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 9.65 million and is growing at a rate of 1.489% with 69% living in urban areas.  The capital of Santo Domingo has a population of 2.25 with other main cities including Santiago (908,000), and resort town Punta Cana. The people are governed by a democratic republic and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Spanish and the local currency is the Dominican Peso.

The Dominican economy has had trouble with political instability in the past but in the past 5 years has become more stable and has experienced steady economic growth.  The Dominican Republic has long been an exporter of agricultural products like sugar and coffee but lately has seen increased revenues from tourism and other service sectors.  Its main trade partner is the US accounting for 66% of exports and 46% of imports. Other major trade partners include Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Belgium, and Finland. Its primary imports are foodstuffs, petroleum, cotton and fabrics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Exports include ferronickel, sugar, gold, silver, coffee, cocoa, tobacco, meats, and consumer goods. Dominican Republic’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $77.43 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.5% with an inflation rate of 12.2%. Dominican Republic ranked 97^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Ecuador is located in Western South America at the equator bordering the Pacific Ocean, Colombia, and Peru. It is about the size of Nevada and covers an area of 283,560 sq. kilometers.  Ecuador’s total population is 14.57 million and is growing at a rate of 1.497% with 66% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Quito has a population of 2 million with the other major city being Guayaquil (2.28 mil). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The official language used is Spanish and the local currency used is the US dollar.

Ecuador has an economy dependent on the export of petroleum which accounts for about 50% of its total exports.  The economy has stabilized since adopting the US dollar as currency but concerns with corruption still persist and foreign investment is still low in this developing nation. Its main trade partner is the US with other including Colombia, Peru, China, Brazil, Russia, and Japan. Its primary imports are industrial materials, fuels and lubricants, and nondurable consumer goods. Exports consist of petroleum, bananas, cut flowers, shrimp, cacao, coffee, hemp, wood, and fish. Ecuador’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $107.1 billion and is growing at a real rate of 5.9% with an inflation rate of 8.6%. Ecuador ranked 136^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to concerns with corruption.

The Arab Republic of Egypt is located in Northern Africa, bordering Israel, Sudan, Libya, and the Mediterranean Sea. Egypt is in a strategic location controlling the Sinai Peninsula, the bridge connecting Africa and the Middle East, and the Suez Canal, connecting the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.  Egypt is about three times the size of New Mexico and covers an area of 1,001,450 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 83.08 million and is growing at a rate of 1.642% with 43% living in urban areas.  The capital of Cairo has a population of 16 million with the other main city being Alexandria (6 mil). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately Muslim. The primary language spoken is Arabic, with English and French also being spoken by educated classes. The local currency used is the Egyptian Pound.

Egypt’s economy has undergone many reforms in the past few years, such as lowering of taxes and privatizing industries, which have led to increased foreign investment, however the living conditions are still relatively poor. Egypt’s main trade partners are the US, Italy, China, Spain, Germany, Syria, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and Russia. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, chemicals, wood products, and fuels. Exports include crude oil and petroleum products, cotton, textiles, metal products, and chemicals. Egypt’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $442.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 6.9% with an inflation rate of 18%. Egypt ranked 114^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Estonia is located in Northeastern Europe bordering Latvia, Russia, the Baltic Sea, and the Gulf of Finland. It is about the size of New Hampshire and Vermont combined and covers an area of 45,226 sq. kilometers.  Estonia’s total population is about 1.29 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.632% with 69% living in urban areas.  The Estonian capital of Tallinn has a population of about 397,000 with other major cities including Tartu (102,000), Narva (66,000), and Parnu (44,000). The people are governed by a parliamentary republic and the primary language used is Estonian with about 30% of the population also speaking Russian. Estonia joined both NATO and the EU in 2004. The local currency used is the Estonian Kroon.

Estonia’s economy has a free market economy that has benefited since joining the EU.  It has one of the highest GDP per capita in Eastern Europe and a government dedicated to pursuing pro-market reforms. Its main trade partners are Finland, Sweden, Germany, Russia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, textiles, mineral fuels, chemical products, and foodstuffs. Exports consist of machinery and equipment, wood and paper, metals, food products, textiles, and chemicals products. Estonia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $27.72 billion and is shrinking at a real rate of 3% with an inflation rate of 10.4%. Estonia ranked 22^nd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Finland is located in Northern Europe bordering Sweden, Russia, and the Baltic Sea. It is about the size of Montana and covers an area of 338,145 sq. kilometers.  Finland’s total population is about 5.25 million and is heavily concentrated in the Southern parts of the country. The population is growing at a rate of 0.098% with 63% living in urban areas.  The Finnish capital of Helsinki has a population of about 564,000 with other major cities including Espoo (235,000), Tampere (204,000), and Turku (175,000). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately members of the Lutheran Church of Finland. The primary language is Finnish with Swedish being a secondary official language used by a minority of the population, however many Finnish citizens are multilingual and have a strong understanding of English and German as well. Finland joined the EU in 1995 and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Finland has a strong industrial economy heavily based in manufacturing and high-tech exports. Finland is one of the best performing economies in the EU with a GDP per capita comparable to the other European powers and is known for having some of the best living conditions in the world.  Its main trade partners are Germany, Sweden, Russia, UK, Netherlands, US and China. Its primary imports are foodstuffs, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, and grains. Exports consist of electrical and optical equipment, machinery, transport equipment, paper and pulp, chemicals, basic metals, and timber. Finland’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $195.2 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.5% with an inflation rate of 4.1%. Finland ranked 14^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

France is located in heart of Western Europe bordering Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Mediterranean Sea, Bay of Biscay, and the English Channel. France is about the size of Texas and covers an area of 547,030 sq. kilometers, making it the largest West European nation.  The total population is 64 million and is growing at a rate of 0.549% with 77% living in urban areas.  The capital of Paris has a population of 11.8 million with other main cities including Marseille, Lyon, and Toulouse. The people are governed by a republic and they are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is French and the currency used is the Euro. France was a founding member of the EU and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

France has one of the strongest economies in the world and has a strong presence in the power, public transport, and defense industries.  France’s main trade partners are mostly in the EU including, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Italy, UK, and Netherlands, but also include the US and China. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, vehicles, crude oil, aircraft, plastics, and chemicals. Exports include machinery and transportation equipment, aircraft, plastics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, iron and steel, and beverages. France’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $2.097 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 0.7% with an inflation rate of 1%. France ranked 31^st out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Federal Republic of Germany is located in Central Europe surrounded by Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Austria, the North Sea, and the Baltic Sea. Germany is about the size of Montana and covers an area of 357,021 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 82.3 million, making Germany the most populous country in Europe. The population is shrinking at a rate of 0.053% with 74% living in urban areas.  The capital of Berlin has a population of 3.4 million with other main cities including Hamburg (1.7 mil), Munich (1.2 mil), Cologne (964,000), and Frankfurt (644,000). The people are governed by a federal republic, the primary language used is German, and the local currency is the Euro. Germany was a founding member of the EU and was part of the first group to adopt the Euro as currency in 1999.

Germany has the strongest economy in Europe and is one of the leading economies in the world.  Germany’s main trade partners are mostly in the EU including France, Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, the UK, Spain, and Austria but also include the US and China. Its primary imports are machinery, vehicles, chemicals, foodstuffs, textiles, and metals. Exports include machinery, vehicles, chemicals, metals and manufactures, foodstuffs, and textiles. Germany’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $2.863 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 1.3% with an inflation rate of 2.8%. Germany ranked 25^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Hellenic Republic is located in Southern Europe, bordering Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey, the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Greece is about the size of Alabama covering an area of 131,940 sq. kilometers and has an archipelago of around 2000 islands.  The total population is 10.73 million and is growing at a rate of 0.127% with 61% living in urban areas.  The capital of Athens has a population of 3.5 million (Greater Athens) with other main cities including Thessaloniki (1.05 mil) and Piraeus (0.88 mil). The people are governed by a parliamentary republic and are 98% Greek Orthodox. The official language is Greek and the currency used is the Euro. Greece joined the European Union in 1981 and adopted the Euro as currency in 2001.

Greece has a capitalist economy based heavily in the public sector and benefits greatly from the tourism industry and EU aid.  Greece is looking to improve economic stability in the future by reducing the size of the public sector and reforming labor and pension systems.  Greece’s main trade partners are in the EU, namely Germany, Italy, and France, but also including the UK, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania.  Other trade partners include Russia, China, and the US. Its primary imports are machinery, transport equipment, chemicals, and fuels. Exports include food and beverages, manufactured goods, petroleum products, chemicals, and textiles. Greece’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $343.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 2.8% with an inflation rate of 4.4%. Greece ranked 96^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Guatemala is located in Central America bordering Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, the North Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf of Honduras. It is about the size of Tennessee and covers an area of 108,890 sq. kilometers.  Guatemala’s total population is about 13.28 million making it the most populous country in Central America. The population is growing at a rate of 2.066% with 49% living in urban areas.  The capital of Guatemala City has a population of about 2.5 million with other major cities including Quetzaltenango and Escuintla. The people are governed by a constitutional democratic republic and are a mix of Roman Catholic, Protestant, and traditional Mayan.  The primary language used is Spanish, but about 40% of the population speaks indigenous Amerindian languages with 23 being officially recognized. The local currency used is the Guatemalan Quetzal.

Guatemala’s economy has improved greatly in the past decade since the signing of peace agreements in 1996.  The Central American Free Trade Agreement established in 2006 has also boosted the economy and has begun attracting more foreign investment.  There still remain concerns over lack of skilled workers and poor infrastructure in the area along with the corruption and high levels of drug trafficking. Its main trade partner is the US accounting for more than 40% of its exports and 35% of its imports. Other major trade partners include Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, China, and Costa Rica. Its primary imports are fuels, machinery and transport equipment, construction materials, grain, fertilizers, and electricity. Exports consist of coffee, sugar, petroleum, apparel, bananas, fruits, and vegetables. Guatemala’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $68.02 billion and is growing at a real rate of 3.8% with an inflation rate of 12.2%. Guatemala ranked 112^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is located in Southeast Asia bordering China and the South China Sea. It is about six times the size of Washington DC and covers an area of 1,092 sq. kilometers.  Hong Kong’s total population is 7.05 million and is growing at a rate of 0.504% with 100% living in urban areas.  Hong Kong’s government is a Special Administrative Region of China and operates under the one country, two systems policy. Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy except for the areas of Foreign and Defense affairs. The official language used is Chinese with English being a popular second language.  The local currency used is the Hong Kong Dollar.

Hong Kong has a free market economy highly dependent on international trade and finance and is increasingly integrating with mainland China.  Due to the beneficial economic policies, Hong Kong is a global center for foreign investment and one of the easiest places in the world to do business. Its main trade partner is China accounting for 49% of exports and 47% of imports. Other major trade partners include the US, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and South Korea. Its primary imports are raw materials and semi-manufactures, consumer goods, capital goods, foodstuffs, and fuels. Exports consist of electrical machinery and appliances, textiles, apparel, footwear, watches, clocks, toys, plastics, precious stones, and printed material. Hong Kong’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $307.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 2.8% with an inflation rate of 2.1%. Hong Kong ranked 4^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Hungary is located in Central Europe bordering Romania, Slovakia, Austria, Croatia, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Serbia. It is slightly smaller than Indiana and covers an area of 93,030 sq. kilometers.  Hungary’s total population is about 9.9 million and shrinking at about 0.257% with 68% living in urban areas.  The Hungarian capital of Budapest has a population of about 2 million with other major cities including Debrecen (220,000), Miskolc (208,000), Szeged (189,000), and Pecs (183,000). The people are ruled by a parliamentary democracy, are mostly Roman Catholic, and their primary language is Hungarian. Hungary joined NATO in 1999 and joined the EU in 2004. The local currency used is the Hungarian Forint with future plans to eventually adopt the Euro.

Hungary has gone through a period of economic transition from centrally planned to a market economy.  Its economy is still at a level below other European powers but foreign ownership and investment is widespread throughout Hungarian firms.  Its main trade partners are mostly in the EU including, Germany, Italy, France, Austria, Netherlands, UK, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia, and also include Russia and China. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, other manufactures, food products, raw materials, and fuels and electricity. Exports consist of machinery and equipment, other manufactures, food products, raw materials, and fuels and electricity. Hungary’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $205.7 billion and is shrinking at a real rate of 1.5% with an inflation rate of 6.1%. Hungary ranked 23^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of India is located in Southern Asia bordering Pakistan, China, Nepal, the Himalayas, Bangladesh, Burma, the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. It dominates the South Asian subcontinent and is about 1/3 the size of the US covering an area of 3,287,590 sq. kilometers.  India’s total population is 1.16 billion, making it the second most populated country in the world and most populated based on its size. The population is growing at a rate of 1.548% with only 29% living in urban areas.  The capital city of New Delhi has a population of 12.8 million with other main cities including Mumbai (formerly Bombay, pop. 16.4 mil), Kolkata (formerly Calcutta, pop. 13.2 mil), Bangalore (5.7 mil), and Chennai (formerly Madras, pop 6.4 mil). The people are governed by a federal republic and are predominately Hindu with a minority of Muslims concentrated in the North. The most widely spoken language is Hindi, however there are 14 other official languages and therefore English is the most important language used for national communication. The currency used is the Indian Rupee.

India has a diverse economy comprised of traditional farming and agriculture, services, and modern industries. The economy has strengthened in the past decade as the government has begun to reduce controls on foreign trade and investment, however many government restrictions still remain, and the enormous and growing population is a cause for concern. Its main trade partners are the US, China, United Arab Emirates, Germany, UK, and Singapore. Its primary imports are crude oil, machinery, gems, fertilizer, and chemicals. Exports consist of petroleum products, textile goods, jewelry, engineering goods, and leather manufactures. India’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $3.27 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 6.6% with an inflation rate of 7.8%. India ranked 123^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to concerns with corruption and strict government regulations on business.

The Republic of Indonesia is a group of islands located in Southeastern Asia bordering Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean. Indonesia is about three times the size of Texas and covers an area of 1,919,440 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 240 million and is growing at a rate of 1.136% with 52% living in urban areas.  The capital of Jakarta has a population of 8.8 million with other main cities including Surabaya (3 mil), Medan (2.5 mil), and Bandung (2.5 mil). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately Muslim.  The primary language is Indonesian and the local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah.

Indonesia’s economy has achieved significant advances over the past few years in economic policy and market supervision.  Indonesian still suffers from high levels of poverty, poor infrastructure, and corruption.  Indonesia’s main trade partners are Japan, Singapore, US, China, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Australia. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, chemicals, fuels, and foodstuffs. Exports include oil and gas, electrical appliances, plywood, textiles, and rubber. Indonesia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $915.9 billion and is growing at a real rate of 6.1% with an inflation rate of 11.1%. Indonesia ranked 129^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to strict government controls on business.

Ireland is located in Western Europe occupying 5/6 of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, bordering North Ireland of the UK. Ireland is slightly larger than West Virginia and covers an area of 70,280 sq. kilometers. The total population is 4.2 million and is growing at a rate of 1.12% with 61% living in urban areas.  The capital of Dublin has a population of 1.4 million (Greater Dublin) and 40% of the Irish population lives within 100 km of Dublin. The people are governed by a parliamentary republic and are predominantly Roman Catholic. Ireland has two official languages, English, which is the most widely used, and Irish (Gaelic), which is used mainly in areas along the west coast. Ireland joined the European Union in 1973 and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Ireland has a small, trade-dependent economy which has been hit hard by the global financial meltdown and slowdown in the construction and real estate markets.  Ireland is looking to improve economic stability in the future by implementing a series of economic reforms to invest in infrastructure, curb inflation, and increase foreign investment.  Ireland’s main trade partners are the UK, the US, Germany, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. Its primary imports are data processing equipment, other machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum products, textiles, and clothing. Exports include machinery and equipment, computers, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and live animals and animal products. Ireland’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $191.6 billion and is shrinking at a real rate of 1.7% with an inflation rate of 4%. Ireland ranked 7^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Israel Israel is located in the Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, Egypt, and Jordan.  It occupies 20,770 sq. km, which is slightly larger than the state of New Jersey.  Israel has a population of 7.47 million, growing at 1.58%. 

The Italian Republic is a peninsula located in Southern Europe extending into the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Austria, France, Switzerland, and Slovenia. Italy is slightly larger than Arizona and covers an area of 301,230 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 58.1 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.047% with 68% living in urban areas.  The capital of Rome has a population of 3.7 million with other main cities including Milan (3.9 mil), Naples (3 mil), and Torino (2.1 mil). The people are governed by a republic, are predominately Roman Catholic. The primary language is Italian with small minorities speaking German and French in select regions. Italy was a founding member of the EU and NATO and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Italy has a diversified economy well divided between the more strongly developed north and the less developed south where unemployment is much higher.  Its economy is dominated by trade and manufacture of high quality consumer goods. Italy’s main trade partners are Germany, France, Spain, UK, US, Belgium, Netherlands, and China. Its primary imports are engineering products, chemicals, transport equipment, energy products, textiles and clothing, and food, beverages, and tobacco. Exports include engineering products, textiles and clothing, production machinery, motor vehicles, transport equipment, chemicals, and food, beverages, and tobacco. Italy’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.821 trillion and is shrinking at a real rate of 0.7% with an inflation rate of 3.6%. Italy ranked 65^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Japan is located in Eastern Asia on an island chain in the North Pacific just east of the Sea of Japan and the Korean Peninsula. Japan is about the size of California and covers an area of 377,835 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 127 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.191% with 66% living in urban areas.  The capital of Tokyo has a population of 12.9 million with other main cities including Yokohama, Osaka, and Sapporo. The people are governed by a parliamentary government with a constitutional monarchy and they are predominately Shinto and Buddhist.  The primary language is Japanese and the currency used is the Japanese Yen.

Japan has one of the strongest economies in the world behind the US and China mainly due to their strong proficiency in the technological sector.  Japan’s main trade partners are China, the US, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, fuels, foodstuffs, chemicals, raw materials, and textiles. Exports include transport equipment, motor vehicles, semiconductors, electrical machinery, and chemicals. Japan’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $4.348 trillion and is shrinking at a real rate of 0.4% with an inflation rate of 1.8%. Japan ranked 12^th,out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Jordan Jordan is a Middle Eastern country that is slightly smaller than Indiana that borders Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Iraq.  It occupies a total of 89,342 sq. km and has a total population of 6.5 million, growing at .984%.  Its

The Republic of Kazakhstan is located in Central Asia bordering Russia, China, Kyrgystan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and the Caspian Sea. It is about four times the size of Texas and covers an area of 2,717,300 sq. kilometers making it the second largest country in central Asia only to Russia.  Kazakhstan’s total population is about 15.4 million and is growing at a rate of 0.392% with 58% living in urban areas. Kazakhstan’s capital of Astana has a population of about 295,000 with other major cities including Almaty (former capital, pop. 1 mil), Karaganda (415,000), and Shymkent (340,000). The people are governed by a republic with authoritarian presidential rule and are half Muslim and half Russian Orthodox. The primary language used for everyday business is Russian with many native speakers of Kazakh as well. The local currency used is the Kazakhstani Tenge.

Kazakhstan has the strongest economy of all of the Central Asian states and it is firmly based in the export of its abundant natural resources, namely oil.  Recent economic reforms including a tax code reform have been implemented to favor domestic industry and reduce dependence on the energy sector. Kazakhstan’s main trade partners are Russia, China, Germany, Italy, and France. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, metal products, and foodstuffs. Exports consist of oil and oil products (59%), ferrous metals, chemicals, machinery, grain, wool, meat, and coal. Kazakhstan’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $176.9 billion and is growing at a real rate of 3% with an inflation rate of 18.6%. Kazakhstan ranked 70^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Kuwait Kuwait is located in the Middle East, bordering Iraq to the North and Saudi Arabia to the South.  It has a 500 kilometer coastline along the Persian Gulf to the East.  It occupies 17,818 sq. kilometers (slightly smaller than

Malaysia is located in Southeastern Asia on the southern tip of the peninsula bordering Thailand just north of Singapore and on the northern part of the Island of Borneo bordering Indonesia, Brunei, and the South China Sea. It is slightly larger than New Mexico and covers an area of 329,750 sq. kilometers.  Malaysia’s total population is about 25.7 million and growing at about 1.723% with 70% living in urban areas.  The Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur has a population of about 1.5 million with other major cities including Klang (631,000), Johor Baharu (630,000), and Ipoh (574,000). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are mostly Muslim, but also including a mix of Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, and other traditional Chinese religions. The primary language is Malay, but due to the diverse nature of the country many people speak English, different Chinese dialects, Tamil, and other Native languages. The local currency used is the Malaysian Ringgit.

Malaysia has an emerging, export based economy that has greatly improved since the 1970s when it was solely a producer of raw materials.  The governments goal is to attract investment in high technology, but exports, mainly of electronics, gas, and oil, are currently the focal points of its economy.  Its main trade partners are the US, Japan, China, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Germany, and Indonesia. Its primary imports are electronics, machinery, petroleum products, plastics, vehicles, iron and steel products, and chemicals. Exports consist of electronic equipment, petroleum and liquefied natural gas, wood and wood products, palm oil, rubber, textiles, and chemicals. Malaysia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $386.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 5.1% with an inflation rate of 5.8%. Malaysia ranked 20^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Mexico is located in North America bordering the US, Belize, Guatemala, the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and North Pacific Ocean. It is about three times the size of Texas covering an area of 1,972,550 sq. kilometers.  Mexico’s total population is 111 million and is growing at a rate of 1.13% with 77% living in urban areas.  The capital of Mexico City has a population of 19.2 million with other main cities including Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, and Ciudad Juarez. The people are governed by a federal republic and are predominately Roman Catholic. The official language is Spanish and the currency used is the Mexican Peso. In January 2009, Mexico assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2009-2010 term.

Mexico has strong economic ties to the US and since the implementation of NAFTA in 1994 trade has tripled to both the US and Canada. Mexico is involved in a total of 12 free trade agreements which support its free market economy and foreign trade.  Mexico’s main trade partner is the US, which accounts for 82% of its exports and 50% of its imports. Other major trade partners include China, Japan, Canada, South Korea, and Germany. Its primary imports are metalworking machines, steel mill products, agricultural machinery, electrical equipment, car parts for assembly and repair, and aircraft. Exports include manufactured goods, oil and oil products, silver, fruits, vegetables, coffee, and cotton. Mexico’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.56 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 1.4% with an inflation rate of 6.2%. Mexico ranked 56^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of Morocco is located in Western North Africa at the equator bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Algeria, and Western Sahara. It is about the size of California and covers an area of 446,550 sq. kilometers.  Morocco’s total population is 34.86 million and is growing at a rate of 1.479% with 56% living in urban areas.  The capital city of Rabat has a population of 1.6 million with the other major cities including Casablanca (3.1 mil) and Marrakech (839,000). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are 99% Muslim.  The official language used is Arabic however French is often the language of business, government, and diplomacy. The local currency used is the Moroccan Dirham.

Morocco’s economy is still based in agriculture and has been fairly stable in the past decade.  Authorities have recently been implementing many reforms aimed at improving living conditions, diversifying the economy, and attracting more foreign investment. Poor living conditions, the poor education system, and high unemployment especially in urban areas are still long-term problems.  Its main trade partners are Spain, France, Italy, China, Saudi Arabia, UK, Germany, US, Netherlands, and India. Its primary imports are crude petroleum, textile fabric, telecommunications equipment, wheat, gas and electricity, transistors, and plastics. Exports consist of clothing and textiles, electric components, inorganic chemicals, transistors, crude minerals, fertilizers, petroleum products, citrus fruits, vegetables, and fish. Morocco’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $137.3 billion and is growing at a real rate of 5.9% with an inflation rate of 4.6%. Morocco ranked 128^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is located in Western Europe bordering Belgium, Germany, and the North Sea. It is about twice the size of New Jersey and covers an area of 41,526 sq. kilometers.  Netherlands’s total population is about 16.7 million and growing at about 0.412% with 82% living in urban areas.  The Dutch capital of Amsterdam has a population of about 742,000 with other major cities including The Hague (473,000) and Rotterdam (584,000). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are mostly Roman Catholic or Dutch Reformed. The primary language is Dutch, but many people also have a strong grasp of English, German, and French. The Netherlands were a founding member of NATO and the EU and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

The Netherlands has a strong and stable economy that is very attractive for foreign investment due to its open economic policies and stable government.  Its economy is heavily dependent on foreign trade and it is known as a European transportation hub.  Its main trade partners are Germany, Belgium, UK, China, US, France, Italy, and Russia. Its primary imports are machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, fuels, foodstuffs, and clothing. Exports consist of machinery and equipment, chemicals, fuels, and foodstuffs. Netherlands’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $670.2 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.8% with an inflation rate of 1.5%. Netherlands ranked 26^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

New Zealand is located on an island chain in the South Pacific just southeast of Australia. New Zealand is about the size of Colorado and covers an area of 268,680 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 4.21 million and is growing at a rate of 0.935% with 87% living in urban areas.  The capital of Wellington has a population of 450,000 with other main cities including Auckland (1.2 mil) and Christchurch (338,000). The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy and the primary language is English, with the native tongue, Maori, and New Zealand Sign language also being official languages. The currency used is the New Zealand Dollar.

New Zealand has incorporated economic reforms for the past 20 years that transitioned it from an economy that was once heavily dependent on help from Britain, to a now more powerful and stable free market economy.  New Zealand’s main trade partners are Australia, the US, China, Japan, UK, Germany, and Singapore. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, vehicles and aircraft, petroleum, electronics, plastics, and textiles. Exports include dairy products, meat, wood and wood products, fish, and machinery. New Zealand’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $116.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 0.2% with an inflation rate of 4.3%. New Zealand ranked 2^nd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Nigeria is located in West Africa bordering Cameroon, Benin, Chad, Niger, and the Gulf of Guinea. Nigeria is about twice the size of California and covers an area of 923,768 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 149 million making it the most populated country in Africa.  The population is growing at a rate of 1.999% with 48% living in urban areas.  The capital of Abuja has a population of 452,000 with other main cities including Kano (9.3 mil), Lagos (9 mil), and Ibadan (5 mil). The people are governed by a federal republic and are half Muslim and half Christian.  The primary language is English and the local currency is the Nigerian Naira.

Nigeria has been long affected by political instability, corruption, and poor infrastructure, but it has begun to implement reforms in the past decade.  Oil revenues are a large contributor to GDP and account for 95% of Nigeria’s exports. Nigeria is still a developing economy in need of more economic and infrastructural reforms.  Its main trade partners are the US, China, Netherlands, Brazil, Spain, South Korea, UK, France, and Germany. Its primary imports are machinery, chemicals, transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, and live animals. Exports include petroleum and petroleum products, cocoa, and rubber. Nigeria’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $338.1 billion and is growing at a real rate of 6.1% with an inflation rate of 11.1%. Nigeria ranked 129^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to strict government controls on business.

Norway Norway is a Northern European country that borders the North Sea, the North Atlantic Ocean, and Sweden.  It occupies 323,802 sq. km, making it slightly larger than the state of New Mexico.  It has a population of 4.69 million,

Oman Oman is located in the Middle East and borders the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.  It is between the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.  It is slightly smaller than the state of Kansas, occupying

The Republic of Panama is located in Central America bordering Costa Rica, Colombia, the North Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. Panama is in a strategic location serving as a bridge connecting North and South America and also a canal connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean.  Panama is slightly smaller than South Carolina and covers an area of 78,200 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 3.36 million and is growing at a rate of 1.503% with 73% living in urban areas.  The capital of Panama City has a population of 1.1 million with other main cities including Colon (198,000) and David (138,000). The people are governed by a constitutional democracy and are predominately Roman Catholic. The primary language spoken is Spanish, however many people are bilingual and speak English as well. The local currency is the Panamanian Balboa, which has been set at a fixed rate to the US dollar, making the legal currency used the US dollar.

Panama’s economy is characterized by a strong service sector accounting for 80% of GDP.  Operating the Panama Canal is a strong asset of Panama and a recent Canal Expansion project to be completed by 2014-15 should help to further growth of Panama’s economy. Panama’s main trade partner is the US with others including Netherlands, China, Japan, Costa Rica, South Korea, Sweden, UK, and Spain. Its primary imports are capital goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, and chemicals. Exports include bananas, shrimp, sugar, coffee, and clothing. Panama’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $38.49 billion and is growing at a real rate of 8.3% with an inflation rate of 10.6%. Panama ranked 81^st out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Peru is located in Western South America bordering Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the South Pacific Ocean. Peru is about the size of Alaska and covers an area of 1,285,220sq. kilometers.  The total population is 29.5 million and is growing at a rate of 1.229% with 71% living in urban areas.  The capital of Lima has a population of 7.6 million with other main cities including Arequipa (734,000), Trujillo (600,000), and Chiclayo (490,000). The people are governed by a constitutional republic and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Spanish with the native Quechua also being an official language.  The local currency is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol.

Peru is characterized by a wide variety of climates and an abundance of resources including minerals and metals.  Its economy has experienced a period of growth since 2002, reducing the national poverty rate by 15% and moving towards a free-trade system.  In February 2009 the US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement entered into force.  Peru’s main trade partners are the US, China, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Switzerland, and Spain. Its primary imports are petroleum and petroleum products, plastics, machinery, vehicles, iron and steel, wheat, and paper. Exports include copper, gold, zinc, crude petroleum and petroleum products, coffee, potatoes, asparagus, textiles, and fishmeal. Peru’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $238.9 billion and is growing at a real rate of 9.2% with an inflation rate of 6.7%. Peru ranked 62^nd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to strict government controls on business.

The Republic of the Philippines is located in Southeastern Asia on an island chain between Philippine Sea and South China Sea just east of Vietnam. The Philippines is about the size of Arizona and covers an area of 300,000 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 97.98 million and is growing at a rate of 1.957% with 65% living in urban areas.  The capital of Manila has a population of 11.55 million with other main cities including Davao City (1.36 mil) and Cebu City (800,000). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary national language is Filipino, but English is the language used in Government and Education.  The local currency is the Philippine Peso.

The Philippines has an emerging economy that has grown steadily in the past decade.  The Philippines is still lagging regional competitors economically and need to increase foreign trade and investment to sustain economic growth and improve poverty levels and living conditions.  The Philippines’s main trade partners are the US, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Netherlands, South Korea, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. Its primary imports are electronic products, mineral fuels, machinery and transport equipment, iron and steel, textile fabrics, grains, chemicals, and plastics. Exports include semiconductors and electronic products, transport equipment, garments, copper products, petroleum products, coconut oils, and fruits. The Philippines’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $320.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.6% with an inflation rate of 9.3%. The Philippines ranked 140^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Poland is located in Central Europe bordering Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and the Baltic Sea. Poland is slightly smaller than New Mexico and covers an area of 312,679 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 38.5 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.047% with 61% living in urban areas.  The capital of Warsaw has a population of 1.69 million with other main cities including Lodz (776,000), Krakow (757,000), Wroclaw (636,000), and Poznan (573,000). The people are governed by a republic, are predominately Roman Catholic, and their primary language is Polish. Poland joined NATO in 1999 and joined the EU in 2004. Poland currently uses the Polish Zloty as currency but aims to adopt the Euro by 2012.

Poland has experienced great economic success for the past 15 years transitioning to a more modern and stable economy, on par with the other Baltic states.  Although the economy is not yet on par with the European powers, membership in the EU and the accompanying aid has proved to be a huge benefit for the Polish economy.  Poland’s main trade partners are mostly in the EU including, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Italy, UK, and Netherlands, but also include Russia and China. Its primary imports are machinery and transport equipment, intermediate manufactured goods, chemicals, minerals, and fuels. Exports include machinery and transport equipment, intermediate manufactured goods, miscellaneous manufactured goods, and food and live animals. Poland’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $667.4 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.8% with an inflation rate of 4.3%. Poland ranked 76^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Portuguese Republic is located in Southwestern Europe bordering Spain and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is about the size of Indiana and covers an area of 92,391 sq. kilometers.  Portugal’s total population is about 10.7 million and is growing at a rate of 0.275% with 59% living in urban areas.  The Portuguese capital of Lisbon has a population of about 2.1 million with the other major city being Porto (pop 1.9 mil). The people are governed by a republic and are predominately Roman Catholic. The primary language is Portuguese with small minorities using Mirandese. Portugal was a founding member of NATO, joined the EU in 1986, and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Portugal has a stable diversified economy that has benefited greatly from membership in the EU, however its economy is still below the strong European powers. Portugal is becoming increasingly overlooked as a place for foreign investment as countries have begun to look for cheaper options in Eastern Europe or Asia.  Its main trade partners are Spain, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Netherlands, and the US. Its primary imports are agricultural and food products, oil products, chemical products, plastics and rubber, leather, wood and cork, minerals, textile materials, vehicles, and household goods. Exports consist of agricultural and food products, oil products, chemical products, plastics and rubber, leather, wood and cork, textile materials, minerals, vehicles, and machinery. Portugal’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $237.3 billion and is growing at a real rate of 0.2% with an inflation rate of 2.9%. Portugal ranked 48^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Puerto Rico is an island located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. It is about three times the size of Rhode Island and covers an area of 13,790 sq. kilometers.  Puerto Rico’s total population is about 3.97 million and growing at a rate of 0.34% with 98% living in urban areas.  The capital San Juan has a population of about 433,000 million with other major cities including Bayamon (224,000) and Carolina (187,000). The people are governed by a commonwealth and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language used is Spanish, but English is an official language as well and is the second language taught in schools. The local currency used is the US dollar.

Although Puerto Rico is still a developing economy it has one of the strongest economies in the Caribbean region.  Duty-free access and generally low tax rates with tax incentives have encouraged US companies to invest heavily in Puerto Rico and the tax benefits make it an attractive region for other foreign investment. Its main trade partner is the US with other major trade partners including UK, Netherlands, Dominican Republic, Ireland, and Japan. Its primary imports are chemicals, machinery and equipment, clothing, food, fish, and petroleum products. Exports consist of chemicals, electronics, apparel, rum, canned tuna, beverage concentrates, and medical equipment. Puerto Rico’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $70.59 billion and is shrinking at a real rate of 2% with an inflation rate of 6.5%. Puerto Rico ranked 35^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Qatar Qatar, located in the Middle East, is a peninsula slightly smaller in area than the state of Connecticut that borders on the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia.  It occupies 11,586 sq. km and has a total population of 848,000,

The Russian Federation is located in Northern Asia bordering Europe to the West, the Arctic Ocean to the North, the North Pacific Ocean to the East, and Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China to the South. It is almost double the size of the US and covers an area of 17,075,200 sq. kilometers making it the largest country in the world.  Russia’s total population is about 140 million and shrinking at about 0.467% with 73% living in urban areas.  The Russian capital of Moscow has a population of about 10.4 million with other major cities including St. Petersburg (4.6 mil), Novosibirsk (1.4 mil), and Nizhniy Novgorod (1.3 mil). The people are governed by federation and are an even split of non-believers, non-practicing believers, Russian Orthodox and Muslim. The primary language is Russian, but due to the enormous size of the country many minority languages are spoken as well. The local currency used is the Russian Rubble.

The Russian economy is a strong export economy based heavily on the exports of oil and other raw materials.  Corruption is a big concern with the Russian Federation and legal and economic reforms are still in progress with hopes to improve the attractiveness of foreign investment. Its main trade partners are Germany, Netherlands, China, Italy, Ukraine, Japan, US, Belarus, Turkey, and South Korea. Its primary imports are vehicles, machinery and equipment, plastics, medicines, iron and steel, consumer goods, meat, fruits, nuts, and semi-finished metal products. Exports consist of petroleum and petroleum products, natural gas, wood and wood products, metals, chemicals, and a wide variety of civilian and military manufactures. Russia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $2.225 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 6% with an inflation rate of 13.9%. Russia ranked 120^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking mostly due to concerns with corruption and tight government controls on business.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located in the heart of the Middle East between the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, bordering Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait. Saudi Arabia is about 1/5 the size of the US and covers an area of 2,149,690 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 28.68 million and is growing at a rate of 1.848% with 82% living in urban areas.  The capital of Riyadh has a population of 4.3 million with other main cities including Jeddah (3.4 mil) and Makkah (1.6 mil). The people are governed by a monarchy and are 100% Muslim. The official language is Arabic and the local currency is the Saudi Riyal which is pegged at a fixed rate of 3.75 SAR to the US dollar. Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s leading producer’s of oil and natural gas and holds more than 20% of the world’s proven reserves.

Saudi Arabia has an oil-based economy where 90% of its exports and 45% of its GDP come from the petroleum sector.  In order to ensure future economic growth and lessen the dependence on oil exports, the Saudi Arabian government is encouraging private sector growth in new industries and also has recently joined the WTO to encourage foreign investment.  Saudi Arabia’s main trade partners include the US, Japan, China, South Korea, Germany, Taiwan, Singapore, Italy, and UK. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, motor vehicles, and textiles. Exports are dominated by petroleum and petroleum products. Saudi Arabia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $582.8 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.2% with an inflation rate of 10.3%. Saudi Arabia ranked 16^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Singapore is a city-state located in Southeastern Asia on the islands between Malaysia and Indonesia. Singapore is about 3.5 times the size of Washington DC and covers an area of 692.7 sq. kilometers. The total population is 4.66 million and is growing at a rate of 0.998% with 100% living in urban areas.  The people are governed by a parliamentary republic and consist of a mix of Buddhists, Muslims, Taoists, Hindu, and Christians coming from Chinese, Malay, or Indian ethnic backgrounds. The main language used for business is English while the national language is Malay. There are also two other official languages in Singapore, Mandarin and Tamil, but due to the diverse nature of Singapore many other Chinese and Asian dialects are commonly used as well.  The local currency used is the Singapore Dollar.

Singapore has a strong and stable free-market economy and is the focal point for Southeastern Asian sea routes with its port being one of the busiest in the world.  Its economy is based on exports specifically of electronics and information technology products.  Singapore’s main trade partners are mostly Asian countries, including Malaysia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, China, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, and South Korea, but also include the US. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, mineral fuels, chemicals, foodstuffs, and consumer goods. Exports include machinery and equipment (including electronics), consumer goods, mineral fuels, and pharmaceuticals. Singapore’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $240 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.2% with an inflation rate of 4.3%. Singapore ranked 1^st out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Slovenia is located in Central Europe bordering Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Italy, and the Adriatic Sea. It is about the size of New Jersey and covers an area of 20,273 sq. kilometers.  Slovenia’s total population is about 2 million and is shrinking at a rate of 0.113% with 48% living in urban areas.  The Slovenian capital of Ljubljana has a population of about 265,000 with other major cities including Maribor (110,000) and Kranj (51,000). The people are governed by a parliamentary democracy and are predominately Catholic. The primary language used is Slovenian with English being widely understood by businessmen. Slovenia joined both NATO and the EU in 2004. Slovenia and adopted the Euro as currency in 2007.

Slovenia’s economy has been stable and strong since joining the EU.  It has the highest GDP per capita in Central Europe and a well educated work force. However the economy has one of the highest levels of government control in the EU and therefore has relatively low levels of foreign investment. Its main trade partners are Germany, Italy, Austria, Croatia, France, and Russia. Its primary imports are machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, fuels and lubricants, and food. Exports consist of manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, and food. Slovenia’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $59.14 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.3% with an inflation rate of 6%. Slovenia ranked 45^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of South Africa is located at the southernmost point in Africa, bordering the Indian and South Atlantic Oceans as well as Botswana, Mozambique, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Lesotho. South Africa is about twice the size of Texas and covers an area of 1,219,912 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 49.05 million and is growing at a rate of 0.281% with 61% living in urban areas.  The Administrative capital of Pretoria has a population of 1.08 million with the other main cities including Cape Town (2.35 mil), Johannesburg (1.48 mil), and Durban (2.10 mil). The people are governed by a republic and the country is multilingual with 11 official languages.  English is the primary language used for business and politics and the local currency used is the South African Rand.

South Africa’s economy is fairly strong with an abundance of natural resources as well as developed economic sectors of finance, communications, energy, and transport. Problems still remain with high levels of poverty and unemployment throughout the country and a large separation between rich and poor classes.  South Africa’s main trade partners are the US, Germany, China, Japan, the UK, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Netherlands. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum products, scientific instruments, and foodstuffs. Exports include gold, diamonds, platinum, other metals and minerals, and machinery and equipment. South Africa’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $489.7 billion and is growing at a real rate of 2.8% with an inflation rate of 11.3%. South Africa ranked 32^nd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

South Korea is located in Eastern Asia on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula just west of Japan, bordering North Korea, the Sea of Japan, and the Yellow Sea. It is slightly larger than Indiana and covers an area of 98,480 sq. kilometers.  South Korea’s total population is about 48.5 million and growing at about 0.266% with 81% living in urban areas.  The South Korean capital of Seoul has a population of about 10.3 million with other major cities including Busan (3.7 mil), Daegu (2.5 mil), Incheon (2.6 mil), and Gwangju (1.4 mil). South Korea is a republic and the people are a mix of Christian and Buddhist. The primary language is Korean, but English is increasingly favored as a second language and is widely taught in junior high and high school. The local currency used is the South Korean Won.

South Korea has gone through an amazing period of economic growth since the Korean War in the 1950s. It is now comparable to some of the largest economies in the world with a GDP of more than one trillion and is becoming a more attractive area for foreign investment.  Its main trade partners are China, Japan, the US, Hong Kong, and Saudi Arabia. Its primary imports are machinery, electronics and electronic equipment, oil, steel, transport equipment, organic chemicals, and plastics. Exports consist of semiconductors, wireless telecommunications equipment, motor vehicles, computers, steel, ships, and petrochemicals. South Korea’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.278 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 2.5% with an inflation rate of 4.7%. South Korea ranked 23^rd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of Spain is located in Southwestern Europe bordering France, Portugal, the Mediterranean Sea, and Bay of Biscay. Spain is about double the size of Oregon and covers an area of 504,782 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 40.5 million and is growing at a rate of 0.072% with 77% living in urban areas.  The capital of Madrid has a population of 5.5 million with other main cities including Barcelona (4.9 mil), Valencia (2.3 mil), Seville (1.8 mil), and Malaga (1.3 mil). The people are governed by a parliamentary monarchy and they are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Spanish, however Catalan, Galician, and Basque are all official languages regionally. Spain joined the EU in 1986 and adopted the Euro as currency in 1999.

Spain has strong economy comparable to those of the other European powers.  Spain has experienced great economic success for the past 15 years, but ended 2008 with problems with high unemployment rates.  Spain’s main trade partners are mostly in the EU including, Germany, France, Portugal, Italy, UK, and Netherlands, but also include the US and China. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, fuels, chemicals, semi-finished goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, and measuring and medical control instruments. Exports include machinery, motor vehicles, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, medicines, and other consumer goods. Spain’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $1.378 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 1.1% with an inflation rate of 1.4%. Spain ranked 49^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of Sweden is located in Northern Europe bordering Finland, Norway, Denmark, the Baltic Sea, and the Gulf of Bothnia. Sweden is about double the size of Oregon and covers an area of 449,964 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 9.06 million and is growing at a rate of 0.158% with 85% living in urban areas.  The capital of Stockholm has a population of 809,000 with other main cities including Gothenburg (500,000) and Malmo (285,000). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy, are predominately Lutheran, and the primary language is Swedish. Sweden joined the EU in 1995, however the public rejected the Euro as currency and currently use the Swedish Krona.

Sweden’s prolonged peace and neutrality throughout the past two decades has allowed it to enjoy a stable and successful economy and a high standard of living.  Sweden’s economy is heavily based in foreign trade and its main trade partners are Germany, Denmark, Norway, UK, Finland, US, Netherlands, France, Belgium, and China. Its primary imports are machinery, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel, foodstuffs, and clothing. Exports include machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pulp and wood, iron and steel products, and chemicals. Sweden’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $348.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 0.7% with an inflation rate of 1.6%. Sweden ranked 17^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Swiss Confederation is located in Central Europe bordering France, Italy, Austria, and Germany. It is about twice the size of New Jersey and covers an area of 41,290 sq. kilometers.  Switzerland’s total population is about 7.6 million and is growing at a rate of 0.276% with 73% living in urban areas.  The Swiss capital of Bern has a population of about 123,000 with other major cities including Zurich (359,000), Geneva (180,000), Basel (164,000), and Lausanne (119,000). The people are governed by a federal republic and are a mix of Roman Catholic and Protestant. Switzerland has four official languages including German, French, Italian, and Romansch with German being the most widely used and French being more popular in the Western regions. Switzerland has had a long history of neutrality and was not involved in either of the two World Wars. It officially joined the UN in 2002, but is not a member of the EU nor does it use the Euro as currency. The local currency used is the Swiss Franc.

Switzerland’s dedication to neutrality has made it a very stable and prosperous economy with one of the highest per Capita GDP in the world.  It is one of the safest places in the world for foreign investment due to its long-term political and financial stability, bank secrecy, and generous taxation policy. Its main trade partners are Germany, Italy, US, France, UK, Netherlands, and Austria. Its primary imports are machinery, chemicals, vehicles, metals, agricultural products, and textiles. Exports consist of machinery, chemicals, metals, watches, and agricultural products. Switzerland’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $309.9 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.9% with an inflation rate of 2.4%. Switzerland ranked 21^st out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of China (known as Taiwan) is an island located in Southeast Asia bordering the East China Sea, Philippine Sea, Taiwan Strait, and the South China Sea just east of China and north of the Philippines. It is about the size of Maryland and Delaware combined and covers an area of 35,980 sq. kilometers.  Taiwan’s total population is 22.97 million and is growing at a rate of 0.227%.  Taiwan’s government is a Multi-party democracy and claims itself as an independent state from China with its own constitution, president, and military.  The People’s Republic of China claims the Taiwanese government is illegitimate and does not recognize it as an independent state. The official language used is Chinese and the local currency used is the Taiwan Dollar.

Taiwan has a capitalist economy heavily dependent on foreign trade.  The economy has been increasingly privatized with decreasing government guidance on foreign investment and trade. Its main trade partners are China, the US, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea. Its primary imports are electronics, machinery, petroleum, precision instruments, organic chemicals, and metals. Exports consist of electronics, flat panels, machinery, metals, textiles, plastics, chemicals, and auto parts. Taiwan’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $738.8 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.9% with an inflation rate of 3.7%. Taiwan ranked 61^st out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Kingdom of Thailand is located in Southeastern Asia bordering Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Burma, the Andaman Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand. It is about twice the size of Wyoming and covers an area of 514,000 sq. kilometers.  Thailand’s total population is about 65.9 million and growing at about 0.615% with 33% living in urban areas.  The Thai capital of Bangkok has a population of about 9.67 million with other major areas including Nakhon Ratchasima (province pop. 2.56 mil) and Chiang Mai (province pop. 1.59 mil). The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are predominately Buddhist. The primary language is Thai, but English is increasingly favored as a second language among the elite. The local currency used is the Thai Baht.

Thailand has a well-developed infrastructure and boasted one of the strongest Eastern Asian economies in the past decade.  However, recent political uncertainty and riots have stalled some infrastructure projects and lessened investor confidence.   Its main trade partners are Japan, China, US, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, UAE, and Taiwan. Its primary imports are capital goods, intermediate goods and raw materials, consumer goods, and fuels. Exports consist of textiles and footwear, fishery products, rice, rubber, jewelry, automobiles, computers, and electrical appliances. Thailand’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $553.4 billion and is growing at a real rate of 3.6% with an inflation rate of 5.5%. Thailand ranked 13^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Republic of Turkey is located in Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia surrounded by the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey is said to be the link between the Middle East and Europe. Turkey is slightly larger than Texas and covers an area of 780,580 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 76.8 million and is growing at a rate of 1.31% with 69% living in urban areas.  The capital of Ankara has a population of 3.9 million with other main cities including Istanbul (11.3 mil), Izmir (2.6 mil), Bursa (1.5 mil), and Adana (1.5 mil). The people are governed by a republican parliamentary democracy and are 99.8% Muslim (mostly Sunni). The official language is Turkish with the secondary language being Kurdish and the local currency is the Turkish Lira. Turkey is a member of the UN, NATO, an associate member of the European Community and holds a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2009-10 term. In 2005 it began talks about membership with the European Union.

Turkey’s economy has a balanced mix of modern industry, namely textiles and clothing, and traditional agriculture.  Continued economic reforms and the possibility of EU membership make Turkey a promising country for foreign investment.  Turkey’s main trade partners include Germany, Russia, UK, China, Italy, France, Spain, and the US. Its primary imports are machinery, chemicals, semi-finished goods, fuels, and transport equipment. Exports include apparel, foodstuffs, textiles, metal manufactures, and transport equipment. Turkey’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $906.5 billion and is growing at a real rate of 1.5% with an inflation rate of 10.2%. Turkey ranked 59^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

Ukraine Ukraine is an Eastern European country that borders the Black Sea, Poland, Romania, and Moldova.  It occupies 603,550 sq. km, making it slightly smaller than the state of Texas.  It has a total population of 45.13 million, shrinking at

The United Arab Emirates is located in the Middle East bordering Saudi Arabia, Oman, the Gulf of Oman, and the Persian Gulf. It is about the size of Maine and covers an area of 83,600 sq. kilometers.  UAE’s total population is about 4.7 million and is growing at a rate of 3.689% with 78% living in urban areas.  The UAE capital of Abu Dhabi has a population of about 1 million with the other major city being Dubai (pop. 860,000). The people are governed by a federation of emirates and are a predominately Muslim. The primary language used is Arabic with English being a popular language for business and small minorities using Persian, Hindi, or Urdu.  The local currency used is the United Arab Emirates Dirham.

UAE’s economy is strongly dependent on the export of gas and oil and boasts one of the highest per Capita GDP in the world.  It is a very attractive country for foreign investment because of the country’s Free Trade Zones which allow for 100% foreign ownership and zero taxes. Its main trade partners are Japan, China, South Korea, India, US, Germany, Thailand, UK, and Italy. Its primary imports are machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, and food. Exports consist of oil (45%), natural gas, dried fish, and dates. UAE’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $184.6 billion and is growing at a real rate of 7.7% with an inflation rate of 14.4%. UAE ranked 46^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The United Kingdom is located in Western Europe on the islands including Great Britain and the Northern part of Ireland, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean just Northwest of France. The UK is slightly smaller than Oregon and covers an area of 244,820 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 61.1 million and is growing at a rate of 0.279% with 90% living in urban areas.  The capital of London has a population of 7.56 million with other main cities including Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, and Sheffield. The people are governed by a constitutional monarchy and are predominantly Christian. The primary language used is English, with other languages including Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Irish Gaelic. The UK joined the EU in 1973; however they are not in the Euro zone yet and still use the British Pound as currency. The UK was also a founding member of NATO.

The UK has one of the strongest economies in Western Europe and in the world. It is one of the world’s leading trading power and a world financial center.  The UK’s main trade partners are mostly in the EU including Germany, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and Italy, but also include the US, China, and Norway Its primary imports are manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, and foodstuffs. Exports include manufactured goods, fuels, chemicals, food, beverages, and tobacco. The UK’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $2.231 trillion and is growing at a real rate of 0.7% with an inflation rate of 3.8%. The UK ranked 6^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Oriental Republic of Uruguay is located in Southern South America bordering Argentina, Brazil, and the South Atlantic Ocean. Uruguay is about the size of the state of Washington and covers an area of 176,220 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 3.49 million and is growing at a rate of 0.466% with 92% living in urban areas.  The capital of Montevideo has a population of 1.34 with other main cities including Salto (103,000), and Paysandu (80,000). The people are governed by a constitutional republic and are mostly Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Spanish and the local currency is the Uruguayan Peso.

Uruguay’s economy has experienced a strong period of growth since a regional recession in 2002.  It has some of the freest political and labor conditions in the world and therefore maintains a strong, well-educated labor force.  Its main trade partners are Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, China, US, Paraguay, Germany, and Nigeria. Its primary imports are crude petroleum and petroleum products, machinery, chemicals, road vehicles, paper, and plastics. Exports include meat, rice, leather products, wool, fish, and dairy products. Uruguay’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $42.46 billion and is growing at a real rate of 8.5% with an inflation rate of 9.2%. Uruguay ranked 109^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking.

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is located in Northern South America bordering Colombia, Brazil, Guyana, and the Caribbean Sea. Venezuela is about twice the size of California and covers an area of 912,050 sq. kilometers.  The total population is 26.8 million and is growing at a rate of 1.508% with 93% living in urban areas.  The capital of Caracas has a population of 3.2 million with other main cities including Maracaibo and Barquisimeto. The people are governed by a federal republic and are predominately Roman Catholic.  The primary language is Spanish and the local currency is the Venezuelan Bolivar.

Venezuela has an economy heavily dependent on oil revenues accounting for 90 percent of export earnings and 30% of GDP.  The economy is under tight government control and many of the large industrial firms have been nationalized.  High government spending has led to enormous rates of inflation.  Venezuela’s main trade partner is the US accounting for 43% of exports and 27% of imports.  Other major trade partners include Colombia, Brazil, China, Mexico, Panama, and Netherlands Antilles. Its primary imports are raw materials, machinery and equipment, transport equipment, and construction materials. Exports include petroleum, bauxite and aluminum, steel, chemicals, agricultural products, and basic manufactures. Venezuela’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $357.9 billion and is growing at a real rate of 4.9% with an inflation rate of 31%. Venezuela ranked 174^th out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking due to strict government controls on business.

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is located in Southeastern Asia bordered by Laos, Cambodia, and China. It is slightly larger than New Mexico and covers an area of 329,560 sq. kilometers.  Vietnam’s total population is about 86.97 million and growing at about 0.977% with 28% living in urban areas.  The Vietnamese capital of Hanoi has a population of about 6.23 million with other major cities including Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon, pop. 6.6 mil) and Haiphong (1.7 mil). Vietnam is a communist state where the primary language is Vietnamese and English is increasingly favored as a second language. The local currency used is the Vietnamese Dong and as of January 2008 Vietnam assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2008-2009 term.

Vietnam has gone through many hardships in the past 30 years, but has recently begun major reforms to their economy. Membership in the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA) and the WTO, along with the US-Vietnam Bilateral Trade agreement, has greatly helped to improve the economic situation. Most of its trade partners are Eastern Asian countries including China, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, and Thailand, however 20% of its exports go to the US and 7% go to Australia. Its primary imports are machinery and equipment, petroleum products, fertilizer, steel products, raw cotton, grain, and cement. Exports consist of crude oil, marine products, rice, coffee, rubber, tea, garments, and shoes. Vietnam’s GDP (Purchasing Power Parity) is $241.8 billion and is growing at a real rate of 6.2% with an inflation rate of 24.5%. Vietnam ranked 92^nd out of 181 countries in the World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business Ranking mostly due to concerns about corruption.