Better prospects for world trade. World trade is expected to grow slightly but unevenly over the next six months, according to the most recent bi-annual survey carried out by HSBC among 5,500 export-import and trade companies in 25 countries. The Trade Confidence Index (TCI) increased by 1 point to 113 in the second half of 2013 and is therefore back at the same level as in the first part of 2012. 24% of respondents (as opposed to 17% during the previous survey) consider Europe as “the region with the strongest trade potential”, headed by Germany, which is in recovery and has a current TCI of 108, as opposed to its previous index of 101. Asia remains a safe bet and it has managed to further consolidate its place slightly (42%, as opposed to 38%) as the number one region in the business opportunities it offers. On the other hand, the other emerging economies appear less attractive, particularly for companies based in South America and the Middle East. The recovery also appears to be more sustained, which is mainly down to the US (TCI of 115) and the United Kingdom (TCI 113, a rise of 54 points). Emerging markets, however, appear more fragile but not in all areas. Hi-tech is maintaining a positive impact on growth, particularly in China (TCI of 111), the world's biggest exporter in this sector. (IL)