84 million consumers, and a hard-working, literate work force.

Vietnam is presently one of the world’s most interesting business and marketing opportunities. With a population of some 84 million people, it is the 14th largest country in the world, just slightly smaller than Germany, four times larger than Australia and which boasts one of the most impressive economic growths in Asia.

The country is a significant exporter of a vast range of commodities, and has significant numbers of dedicated export processing and industrial zones which are home to many of the world's leading commodities manufacturers.

It attracts investment from all over the world, and interestingly Vietnam is even experiencing businesses from neighbouring countries moving their production across the border into Vietnam in order to take advantage of the investment opportunities the country has to offer.

After the "open door" economic policy of 1986 opened up Vietnam's economy, a steady stream of foreign investment has entered Vietnam, and which has increased over the years. In addition, relaxed rules governing the establishment and operation of private enterprises in Vietnam by Vietnamese themselves, has had a significant impact on improving the level of economic development and wealth creation within Vietnam.

This in turn has led to a rapid increase in consumer spending power which itself has fueled economic growth as a result of the escalating demand for goods and services.

This growth and increased spending power makes Vietnam attractive to investors both in the short and long term. In addition, Vietnam's work force is hard working and literate, making Vietnam particularly attractive to foreign investors wishing to establish operations in Vietnam.

Vietnam has recently implemented a plethora of new laws to govern its economic development, and with WTO membership just around the corner, the future of this politically stable country looks very encouraging for both local and foreign investors alike.