China

Just got back from China! Visited Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. The picture is from a side street off Nathan Road in Kowloon.

The trip was short, but very educational. And, I have to say, despite the pre-trip research, I was a little surprised with the amount of development in south eastern China. Shanghai especially is a very exciting place and the Chinese should be proud of their accomplishments here. Some tempering of the exuberance is a must given the obvious internal policies, but there is considerable evidence in the cities we visited that result from economic policy are positive.

Design automation wasn't part of the agenda for this trip, but there are opportunities for European, and North American firms in this emerging economy. I recommend, at the very least some analysis and investigation, especially if your local opportunities are maxed out. China isn't just a place to get manufactured goods cheap. It is a consumer of goods and services, and there are incredibly massive amounts of infrastructure development.

If you're curious and looking for a place to start, check out AmCham - The American Chamber of Commerce South China.