Asia has over 35 countries with over 600,000 communities and numerous subcultures. According to UNESCAP, Asia Pacific's developing economies 

grew at 7.9% in 2006, up from 7.6% in 2005. The continuing buoyancy of external demand remained a source of growth for many countries. Exports of 

electronics continued to be a key source of growth, while oil and gas exports remained strong in Iran and the oil and gas exporters of North and Central 

Asia, and South-East Asia. Domestic demand drove GDP growth in South and South-West Asia, especially high investments.

Asia-Pacific economic growth is projected at 7.4% in 2007, slower than in 2006. The external environment is expected to be less favourable, mainly due 

to the slowing United States economy. A moderate decline in global electronics demand in 2007 may dampen the Asia-Pacific region’s prospects. And 

the easing of commodity prices, including that of oil, comes as a mixed blessing.

As the international economic environment weakens, momentum in the region is expected to come from China, India and Japan. 

Together, these three economies contribute over 60% of the GDP of the Asia-Pacific region and close to 45% of imports, thereby creating considerable 

opportunities for the region.

Source: UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, UNESCAP