- Worldwide: hit by the recession, Japan is currently the most expensive country for companies (and for expatriates) because of its expensive labour costs and rents, according to a survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The EIU analysed thirty countries that attract the greatest levels of investment or have the potential for doing so in the future. The USA came second and Germany third. Labour costs are expensive in both countries. The runners-up are as follows: the United Kingdom, Belgium, Sweden, France and the Netherlands. Canada came ninth and Italy tenth because of high corporate taxes. Spain was eleventh and actually has the lowest costs in western Europe. The survey also revealed that Argentina (13th), in the middle of a financial and political crisis, is the least promising Latin American country in which to do business. In 1997 the EIU carried out a similar study and Germany was found to be the most expensive country at the time, followed by the USA. Japan was not included in the survey. - Europe: according to the findings of an economic report published by the Eurochambers Association, which brings together 108 regional chambers of commerce and industry in 24 European countries, European business leaders are optimistic about the year 2002. They expect weak but real economic growth, despite the uncertainties that persist. Optimism is highest in candidate countries seeking accession to the EU, particularly Bulgaria, Romania, Slovenia and the Czech Republic, with 50% sharing a positive outlook as opposed to 30% of those already in the EU. If business leaders in most countries are optimistic about the chance of increased turnover (41% of those interviewed), prudence appears to be the watchword as far as investment is concerned, with only 26% of companies describing themselves as optimistic and 22% pessimistic. The majority of them, however, seem ready to make a commitment in this area as soon as the situation improves. - Chile: foreign investments in Chile increased by 55% during the first ten months of last year, compared to the same period in 2000. According to the Minister for the Economy, it reached a total of USD 4.429 billion. Main capital flows during this ten month period came from the USA (37%), Italy (24.5%), Spain (9.8%) and Australia (6.5%). The main sector benefits from these investments were transport, telecommunications, electricity, gas and water. - Saudi Arabia: despite the aftermath following the attacks of 11 September, Crown Prince Habdallah Ben Abdel Aziz indicated that Saudi Arabia remains open to business for foreign investors. The kingdom is the biggest exporter of oil in the world and decided in 2000 to open its market up to foreign investors. Over the last eighteen months, the SAGIA (Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority), charged with generating investment in the country, directed a total of USD 9 billion to Saudi and foreign investment projects.