Around the world in 80 days

By Huw Thomas

Our guide to the last quarter’s global events – and their impact on your business.

UK slump
Construction activity fell in December for the 22nd month in a row. Although the slowdown in the sector has eased markedly since February 2009, the weakness in December continues a pattern of only limited recovery
MENAINF impact rating: ***

Stricter security
The US has introduced tougher screening measures for passengers arriving by air from 14 nations that the authorities deem to be a security risk. However, the X-ray machine produces ‘naked’ images of passengers revealing any concealed weapons or explosives, which has unsurprisingly drawn criticism.
MENAINF impact rating: ***

Utilising wind
Nine European countries, including the UK, have signed up to develop an integrated offshore grid in the North and Irish Seas in order to utilise wind power and cut down on carbon emissions as well as become more energy secure. Interesting times for the industry.
MENAINF impact rating: ****

Traffic surge
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said that Middle East carriers recorded a 16.5 percent rise in passenger demand in November, outpacing global growth, which stood at 2.1 percent. Will this trend continue? Only time will tell.
MENAINF impact rating: ****

No vacancies
In December 2009, Australian Transport and Infrastructure Minister Anthony Albanese declared Sydney’s airport at full capacity, while also delaying a decision on the site for a second airport until 2011, pushing construction further into the future. Potential for air traffic tension.
MENAINF impact rating: ***

On track
India’s Road Transport and Highways Minister Kamal Nath has announced it has increased its per-day construction of roads to nine kilometres, and the target of developing 20 kilometres daily would be accomplished by April. Opportunities aplenty for construction companies in the country.
MENAINF impact rating: ****