EMERGING MARKETS TO ENHANCE SUPPLY CHAIN TO DIVERSIFY RISKS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 22 (Bernama ) -- Emerging markets need to look at
enhancing their supply chain network to diversify business risks as part of
efforts to sustain economic growth in their countries, says an industry expert.

Geoffrey Riddell, Chairman Asia Pacific and Middle East, Zurich Financial
Services, said supply chain was an important and critical component in business.

"Suppliers are exposed to natural catastrophe and political risk. Therefore,
emerging markets should focus on diversifying risk," said Riddell, who is one of
the panelists at the Global Business Leaders Forum 2010 here Monday.

He was talking on promoting new economic linkages between developed and
developing world.

The forum was organised by the Commonwealth Business Council in
collaboration with the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (ASLI) and the
Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Riddell also pointed out the advantages of outsourcing as it would provide
cheaper and better quality labour.

Other panelists are Steve Dahllof, president and chief executive officer of
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide Hong Kong and V.P. Baligar, Principal
Secretary of Commerce and Industries, Karnataka state government, South India.

Dahllof said there should be continuous effort to promote social marketing,
particularly in emerging markets on health, as it educated the people on chronic
diseases.

"By spreading awareness among the public through marketing efforts, people
will be informed on chronic diseases. This will in turn promote healthy
lifestyle and prosperity, he added.
-- BERNAMA