What are global investors investing in the Greater Bay Area, and why?

As the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) continues to rise as a global economic powerhouse, investors from around the world are increasingly drawn to its vast opportunities. But what exactly are they investing in, and why is this region attracting so much attention? Recent interviews with key international business figures in the 2024 Global Investment Promotion Conference for the GBA shed light on the factors driving investment and the promising sectors they are targeting within the region.

The draw of long-term value and growth potential

For many investors, the GBA represents not just a high-growth market but a long-term opportunity. Bob Schenkel, a representative of AmCham South China, explains that establishing a presence in the GBA is part of a long-term vision: "Most investments are for the long term. When you start a factory anywhere, you're committing to several years of growth." Schenkel, who has launched ventures in Europe, India, and China, notes that the GBA's robust infrastructure and resources support this long-term focus, with a range of universities and well-educated talent forming a strong foundation for sustained growth.

Meanwhile, he has invested in the manufacturing sector, such as lighting and domestic-use products. Schenkel highlights how the GBA serves as a launchpad to these international markets, including Europe, South America, and South Africa, especially for consumer goods manufactured within the area.

Sector-specific investments: From manufacturing to tourism and culture

In addition to manufacturing, tourism and cultural exchange have emerged as prominent areas of interest for foreign investors. Michael Teguh Adiputra Siaahan, a journalist with Antara News Agency in Indonesia, points out that tourism investments offer an innovative approach to attracting international visitors. "Investment in tourism isn't like building a factory. It's about organizing activities and festivals that attract tourists," he says, explaining how Indonesia is willing to promote cultural exchanges to draw tourists from the GBA. This investment reflects the increasing significance of cultural engagement and soft power as tools for economic expansion.

Infrastructure and connectivity: The backbone of the GBA's appeal

The GBA's advanced infrastructure plays a pivotal role in its appeal. As Schenkel points out, "The infrastructure here is more interwoven," supporting seamless business operations and allowing companies to integrate their supply chains more effectively. This high level of connectivity is crucial for industries that rely on efficient transportation and communication systems to reach their markets quickly.

José Carlos Matias, Director of Macau Business and Business Intelligence magazines, further emphasizes that the GBA's infrastructure supports its extensive value chain. "One of the main advantages is that you have a whole value chain cluster for those who invest here," he notes. This integration of services and resources reduces costs and time-to-market, giving businesses a competitive edge.

An open business environment

In contrast to perceptions from outside China, several leaders remarked on the openness of the GBA's business environment. "China is quite open, more open than people think from the outside," says Schenkel. This openness, combined with robust government support, makes the GBA an attractive option for global businesses aiming to expand in Asia. For many, the GBA is not only a hub of opportunities but a long-term commitment to growth and success in one of the world's most dynamic regions.