Digital transformation and e-commerce are reshaping emerging markets, opening new doors for businesses and consumers. Here’s what you need to know:
- Mobile-first economies: In regions like Africa and Southeast Asia, mobile devices dominate internet use, driving e-commerce growth. Africa alone is expected to have over 500 million e-commerce users by 2025.
- Financial inclusion: Digital wallets and mobile money systems, like Kenya’s M-Pesa, are providing millions with access to financial services, boosting economic participation.
- Infrastructure challenges: While mobile connectivity is growing, gaps in broadband and delivery logistics remain hurdles. Innovations like low-earth orbit satellites and crowdsourced delivery models are helping bridge these gaps.
- Government support: Policies such as India’s Digital India initiative and regional agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) are fostering digital adoption and cross-border trade.
- Future trends: AI, blockchain, and sustainability are shaping the next wave of growth, offering opportunities for businesses to personalize services, secure transactions, and adopt eco-friendly practices.
Takeaway: Emerging markets are driving over 60% of global GDP growth, fueled by digital tools and e-commerce. Businesses that prioritize mobile-first strategies, payment flexibility, and local partnerships can thrive in these rapidly evolving economies.
Event: IMPACT= Digital transformation in emerging markets
Building Blocks of Digital Change in Developing Countries
For developing countries, the journey toward digital transformation depends on three key factors: strong infrastructure, widespread technology adoption, and forward-thinking policies. Without these essentials, businesses face hurdles in using digital tools effectively, and entire economies miss out on critical growth opportunities.
The digital divide between nations remains stark. In 2022, over 90% of people in high-income countries were online, while only 25% of people in low-income countries had internet access. This disparity presents both challenges and untapped opportunities for businesses aiming to expand into these regions.
Key Infrastructure and Technology Drivers
Mobile connectivity has become the backbone of digital participation in many developing countries. Unlike wealthier nations that rely heavily on fixed-line networks, emerging economies often leapfrog directly to mobile solutions. A clear example of this is Sub-Saharan Africa, where only 30% of people are online, compared to over 70% in Latin America.
Research from 14 countries, including Rwanda and Brazil, highlights the transformative power of mobile connectivity. A 10-percentage-point increase in 3G coverage has been shown to boost employment by 2.1 percentage points, enabling workers in places like Nigeria to access job opportunities beyond their immediate areas.
Another critical driver is cloud infrastructure. As the World Bank emphasizes:
"The critical services that support development – like hospitals, schools, energy, and agriculture – all run on connectivity and data. The infrastructure and platforms that underpin these connections must be available, affordable, and safe for developing countries to flourish."
Despite these advancements, infrastructure gaps persist. For instance, only 50% of Africa’s population has access to 4G, compared to a global average of 88%. In landlocked developing countries, internet access was just 36% in 2022, far below the global average of 66%.
Innovative technologies like low-earth orbit satellites are helping bridge these gaps, especially in remote areas where traditional infrastructure is too expensive to deploy. In the Asia-Pacific region, investments in connectivity are surging, with data center capacity expected to grow nearly 20% annually through 2028.
However, achieving universal broadband access will require significant investment – over US$400 billion by 2030. While innovation and increased connectivity are narrowing some gaps, government policies will play a crucial role in accelerating progress.
Government and Policy Support
Governments are pivotal in driving digital adoption. Take India’s Digital India project, launched in 2015, as an example. By focusing on better infrastructure, accessible services, and empowering citizens, the initiative is set to help India reach nearly 900 million active internet users by 2025.
Another area where governments are making an impact is skills development. Since 2018, Indonesia has trained over 500,000 citizens in digital technology, addressing the talent shortages that often hinder digital transformation efforts.
Governments also encourage business growth by offering tax incentives, subsidies, visa exemptions, tech-friendly labor policies, and partnerships with universities.
Digital governance initiatives are reshaping public services. For instance, e-governance in India has reduced corruption and sped up service delivery. Similarly, Indonesia’s digitized welfare systems have improved efficiency and contributed to poverty reduction.
Regional collaboration is also gaining momentum. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) aims to create a unified digital market for 1.3 billion people, with a combined economic value of US$3.4 trillion. This agreement establishes a framework for cross-border digital commerce and harmonized regulations.
At the same time, regulatory frameworks for e-commerce are evolving. Governments are working to balance the need for legal structures that support digital transactions with consumer protection. However, as Angel Gonzalez Sanz from UNCTAD notes:
"We still need to fully integrate the digital dimension into actions to address poverty, gender equality and climate change"
The effectiveness of these foundational efforts varies widely. For example, Southeast Asia’s internet economy is on track to exceed US$300 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, other regions continue to grapple with more pronounced infrastructure and policy challenges. By strengthening infrastructure and adopting supportive policies, developing countries can lay the groundwork for thriving digital economies. Entrepreneurs who understand these dynamics are better positioned to seize growth opportunities in these markets.
Online Commerce as a Growth Driver for Business
E-commerce has emerged as a game-changer for businesses in emerging markets, breaking through obstacles like limited geographic reach and high operational costs. In the Asia-Pacific region alone, e-commerce sales are expected to hit an impressive $3.5 trillion by 2024, making up over 60% of global e-commerce revenue. Digital platforms are opening up opportunities for businesses to connect with larger audiences, engage in cross-border trade, and provide tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of local markets. This shift has enabled companies to expand their customer base both regionally and globally.
The Growth of Mobile-First Commerce
As digital commerce evolves, mobile devices have become the go-to tool for online shopping in emerging markets. For example, in Southeast Asia, 88% of e-commerce transactions are conducted on mobile devices. This trend highlights the importance of adopting mobile-first strategies for businesses aiming to thrive in these regions. Social commerce is also reshaping how companies interact with consumers, blending shopping experiences seamlessly into social media platforms. In India, platforms like Flipkart, Reliance JioMart, and Meesho are revolutionizing the market with innovative payment systems like UPI. To stay competitive, businesses must prioritize mobile-friendly platforms with fast loading times and secure payment options.
Payment Solutions in Developing Markets
One significant hurdle in emerging markets is the lack of widespread access to traditional banking. However, digital wallets are surging in popularity, accounting for 48.6% of e-commerce transactions globally in 2021 and projected to reach 52.5% by 2025. By 2027, digital wallet transactions are expected to surpass $25 trillion, making up nearly half of all online and in-store sales. Mobile money solutions are also transforming financial landscapes. For instance, Brazil’s instant payment system, Pix, has tripled the number of businesses using financial services. It has shifted from being primarily peer-to-peer to handling nearly 60% of its transaction value for businesses, with 45% of its volume now in business-to-business transactions.
"A lot of emerging markets are actually ahead of developed markets because they’re thinking about more flexible, consumer-friendly payment methods. The US, the UK, and parts of Europe are still pretty card-centric and slowly adopting things."
- Andy McHale, Senior Director of Product and Market Strategy at Spreedly
In the Philippines, GCash partnered with CIMB Bank to launch GSave, enabling users to open savings accounts directly through the GCash app without requiring initial deposits or minimum balances. By May 2022, GSave had amassed 5.3 million digital deposit account holders since its launch in 2018. Meanwhile, Jumia, often called "Africa’s Amazon", addresses payment challenges by offering cash-on-delivery alongside digital payment options, catering to customers who prefer traditional methods while encouraging a gradual shift to digital alternatives. For businesses entering these markets, providing a variety of payment options – digital wallets, mobile money, bank transfers, and cash-on-delivery – is key to accommodating diverse consumer preferences.
Solving Last-Mile Delivery Problems
While payment innovations are driving growth, last-mile delivery remains a major challenge, often accounting for 41-53% of total supply chain costs. Poor infrastructure, inconsistent addressing systems, and geographic obstacles make delivering goods to customers in these markets both costly and complex. Companies like Walmart are tackling this issue by leveraging technology – completing over 6,000 drone deliveries in under 30 minutes and using their 4,700 stores as delivery hubs. Partnerships have also proven effective: Amazon collaborates with convenience store chain Oxxo in Mexico to set up pickup points that lower delivery costs and improve customer convenience. Similarly, Farfetch joined forces with JD.com in China to tap into local logistics expertise.
Technology is playing a central role in improving delivery efficiency. Tools like route optimization, real-time tracking, and data analytics are helping businesses streamline their logistics. For instance, in Houston, Elite Medical Lab partnered with Dropoff to enhance its logistics, achieving a 55% reduction in turnaround time and eliminating lost shipments thanks to better tracking and routing systems. In the Middle East, companies like Farchr are testing GPS-based delivery solutions that locate customers through their mobile phone coordinates. Crowdsourced delivery models are also gaining traction, allowing businesses to rely on local networks of delivery personnel who can navigate challenging terrains. The most successful e-commerce businesses in emerging markets combine multiple strategies – partnering with local providers, investing in advanced technology, and offering flexible pickup options – to build resilient logistics networks that cater to diverse customer needs.
Methods for Scaling Businesses in Developing Markets
Expanding in emerging markets requires a firm grasp of local dynamics, regulations, and preferences. Success here isn’t just about introducing products or services – it’s about adapting to the unique environment. Digital transformation plays a key role, offering tools to penetrate markets and scale effectively. To do this, businesses need a clear digital strategy supported by scalable technologies like cloud solutions, AI, and analytics.
Flexibility is also essential. Agile methods allow companies to respond quickly to changes in regulations, consumer behavior, and economic conditions, maintaining a competitive advantage. A mobile-first approach is particularly effective in these regions, where mobile usage often outpaces traditional internet access. Mobile-friendly platforms, flexible pricing, and targeted social media campaigns – often paired with influencer collaborations – can help brands build awareness in markets where price sensitivity is high.
But scaling isn’t just about broad strategies; it’s about tailoring offerings to reflect the local context.
Local Customization Methods
Scaling successfully in developing markets means more than just translating content. It requires adapting products, services, and marketing strategies to meet regional needs and cultural expectations. Companies that use customer behavior insights often see strong growth, as understanding local preferences can directly impact sales. Comprehensive market research is essential, covering everything from consumer habits and cultural norms to competitor activity and economic conditions. Data shows that 72.4% of consumers are more likely to purchase products with information in their native language.
Product adaptation is a cornerstone of this approach. In India, for instance, McDonald’s swapped out beef for chicken and vegetarian options, introducing the McAloo Tikki burger to align with local dietary habits and restrictions. Pricing strategies also need to reflect economic realities. P&G’s diaper business, for example, adjusted packaging and materials to lower costs, pricing their product to match the cost of a single egg without compromising quality.
Tech companies often need to rethink their solutions for local use. GE Healthcare, recognizing that many rural Indians couldn’t access hospitals for ECG scans, developed a portable device priced at around $650, making it both affordable and practical for the region. Even something as simple as color choice in branding can have a big impact. While consistent color use boosts brand recognition by up to 80%, the meaning of colors varies widely across cultures. Partnering with local experts – through joint ventures, hiring native talent, or working with local distributors – can help businesses navigate these nuances and tap into existing networks.
Regulatory Compliance and Trade Support
Operating in emerging markets means navigating a complex regulatory environment. Failure to comply can result in fines, legal trouble, and damage to a company’s reputation. For example, Meta was fined €1.2 billion in 2023 for violating GDPR, and Dutch bank ABN Amro faced a €480 million penalty in 2021 for lapses in anti-money laundering measures.
To avoid these pitfalls, businesses should establish robust compliance frameworks from the outset. This involves understanding local laws, tariffs, trade agreements, and industry-specific regulations. Policies must be clear and adaptable. Below is an overview of some regional regulatory challenges:
| Region | Key Regulations | Primary Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| EU | AI Act, GDPR | Strict privacy rules, high-risk AI classification, costly documentation |
| China | PIPL, data localization laws | Data residency requirements, local compliance hurdles, evolving enforcement |
| USA | State-level laws (CCPA, Colorado AI Act) | Fragmented rules, sector-specific standards, frequent updates |
Employee training is crucial to ensure teams understand their compliance responsibilities. Technology can simplify this process by automating routine tasks and maintaining audit-ready records. Regular compliance checks, combined with advice from legal experts in international trade, can help address potential issues early.
Protecting intellectual property (IP) is another challenge, as legal frameworks vary widely. Licensing agreements should be tailored to local IP laws. Free trade agreements (FTAs) can offer advantages like reduced tariffs and streamlined legal processes, while diversifying manufacturing partners and ensuring accurate customs classifications can strengthen supply chains.
The regulatory landscape is particularly fluid when it comes to emerging technologies like AI. Regina Sam Penti, a Technology Law Partner, observes:
"We’re witnessing the birth of a really great new technology. It’s an exciting time, but it’s a bit of a legal minefield out there right now."
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Case Studies: Successful Digital Change and Online Commerce Implementation
These examples highlight how companies tackled infrastructure challenges and local market dynamics to achieve impressive growth in the digital and e-commerce space.
M-Pesa: Transforming Financial Access
M-Pesa revolutionized Kenya’s financial ecosystem by solving a critical issue: before its launch, 90% of Kenyans lacked access to bank accounts. By 2012, the platform had 17 million accounts in Kenya, and by 2013, it was handling 43% of the country’s GDP. Today, M-Pesa processes over a billion transactions monthly across its markets, serving more than 50 million active users. Its customer-to-business payments exceed $8.5 billion monthly, with an annual fund movement of over $315 billion.
What made M-Pesa stand out was its ability to meet local needs with a solution far better than any existing alternatives. In rural areas, where traditional banking services were scarce, M-Pesa became a lifeline. As Vodafone explained:
"These people didn’t have access to financial services, and in rural areas there was little, if any, traditional banking infrastructure."
The platform’s impact on financial inclusion is undeniable. In Kenya, financial inclusion rose from 26% in 2006 to 84% in 2021, thanks in part to M-Pesa’s influence. Former President Barack Obama also praised its success:
"Today, Kenya is the largest economy in East Africa… Every day around the world, millions of people send and save money with M-Pesa. And it’s a great idea that started here in Kenya."
M-Pesa’s journey offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs. Its success stemmed from effective distribution, a product that was exponentially better than existing options, and a clear focus on utility. However, as Dominique Collett, Head of AlphaCode at Rand Merchant Investment, pointed out:
"It is very difficult to lift a model from another country and just paste it into a new market. Financial services are very market specific."
This example underscores the importance of tailoring solutions to fit the unique needs of each market.
Jumia: E-Commerce in Africa
Jumia tackled Africa’s e-commerce hurdles by building its own logistics network and adapting payment systems to local preferences. Instead of relying solely on third-party delivery services, Jumia developed its own fleet of trucks to ensure consistent service. The company also introduced payment options like cash on delivery and partnerships with mobile payment providers, catering to African consumers’ habits.
By 2023, Jumia had 5.7 million active customers across Africa, who placed 21.3 million orders for over 220 million products sold by more than 64,000 active sellers. In Ghana, gross merchandise value (GMV) grew by 116.4% year-over-year in constant currency.
Orders from rural areas accounted for at least half of total orders in countries like Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Kenya, thanks to expanded pick-up points and distribution networks. During Nigeria’s cash shortage, Jumia Pay became a critical alternative, with 45% of orders completed via the platform in Q4 2023, up from 31% the previous year.
CEO Francis Dufay summarized the company’s focus:
"Our strategy is focused around three key pillars. First, refocusing and recommitting to the African ecommerce market. Second, improving cash efficiency. And third, building a stronger consumer value proposition tailored to the needs and purchasing power of the African consumers."
Jumia’s advertising partnerships also delivered impressive results. For example, Reckitt Benckiser saw a 400% increase in sales in one year through Jumia Advertising Services, multiplying its customer base sevenfold in just one quarter. A single brand day event in Egypt helped Reckitt achieve 20 times their average daily sales in one day.
Shopee: Social Commerce in Southeast Asia
Shopee embraced the social commerce trend to engage Southeast Asia’s mobile-first, socially active audience. The platform introduced features like Shopee Video, Shopee Live, and Affiliate Marketing Solutions (AMS) to create an entertaining shopping experience that appeals to younger consumers.
The numbers speak for themselves: 80% of Gen Z shoppers look for engaging e-commerce experiences, and 44% of online shoppers interact with video content during their shopping journey. Shopee Video helped brands achieve a 15% increase in average daily orders, while Shopee Live tripled its sales contributions between 2023 and 2024. Livestream viewership grew by 44% year-over-year, with Singapore seeing a 62% spike in engagement. Notably, 60% of viewers expressed interest in products during livestreams, and 40% made purchases on the spot.
Shopee’s affiliate program expanded to a network of over 19 million partners across the region through AMS, enabling brands to connect with consumers via trusted influencers and content creators. Unilever, for example, leveraged Shopee’s hybrid livestreaming strategy to drive 29% of GMV in the FMCG category.
Social commerce in Southeast Asia is forecasted to hit $85 billion in GMV by 2027. With more than 80% of consumers discovering new products through social platforms and 79% using mobile wallets in 2023, the region’s e-commerce landscape is rapidly evolving.
As Junn Wan from Stryv noted:
"Livestreaming not only drives organic traffic to the store but also serves as a bridge between brands and customers, fostering real-time interaction. This engagement is crucial in building customer loyalty, which ultimately leads to higher conversions."
These companies succeeded by solving real problems with scalable digital solutions, leveraging mobile-first strategies and localized payment methods to meet the needs of their markets.
Future Trends Shaping the Digital Economy in Developing Markets
Emerging technologies are reshaping the digital landscape in developing markets, driving innovation and transforming how businesses operate. Here’s a closer look at three key trends that are redefining these dynamic economies.
AI and Big Data for Personalization
AI and big data are taking personalization to the next level in developing markets, where tailored customer experiences are becoming a cornerstone of business success. The personalization industry is expected to grow by 65%, jumping from $7.6 billion in 2020 to $11.6 billion by 2026. This growth reflects the rising demand for customized interactions, with 71% of consumers expecting businesses to deliver personalized experiences.
The impact of AI-driven personalization is clear. Amazon, for instance, credits about 35% of its revenue to its AI-powered recommendation engine. Companies with advanced predictive capabilities are seeing nearly three times the revenue growth compared to their competitors.
Several businesses are already leveraging AI to great effect. Myntra, a Walmart-owned e-commerce platform, introduced MyFashionGPT, a tool powered by ChatGPT that uses natural language processing to suggest products tailored to individual preferences. The BSH Group partnered with Medallia to integrate AI across 40 customer touchpoints, leading to a 106% increase in conversion rates and a 22% boost in add-to-cart actions. Meanwhile, HomeServe USA deployed “Charlie,” an AI-powered virtual assistant capable of handling over 11,000 customer support calls daily while providing real-time assistance to human agents based on customer sentiment.
Looking ahead, Gartner predicts that by 2025, generative AI will power 80% of customer service and support organizations. To succeed, businesses need to focus on building strong systems and start with targeted use cases – improving data collection, decision-making, and customer interaction across the board.
Blockchain for Secure Cross-Border Trade
Blockchain technology is set to revolutionize international trade, particularly in developing markets where traditional banking systems often fall short. The global blockchain industry is projected to grow from $4.8 billion in 2022 to a staggering $2.334 trillion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 85.7%. By streamlining communication and border administration, blockchain could unlock an additional $1 trillion in global trade.
The transparency offered by blockchain is a game changer, enabling near real-time monitoring of transactions across supply chains. Real-world applications illustrate its potential. In Brazil, Visa collaborated with Agrotoken, Microsoft, and Sinqia to pilot a Universal Payment Channel for small-scale farmers, simplifying transactions. French retailer Auchan partnered with Te-Food to implement a blockchain-based food traceability system, enhancing transparency across its international supply chain. Additionally, Brazil and other BRICS nations are exploring blockchain solutions to improve payment systems rather than pursuing monetary unification.
Blockchain also makes compliance easier, simplifies Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, and opens up alternative funding sources through investor marketplaces. As Chris Harmse, Co-Founder & Chief Business Officer of BVNK, aptly put it:
"Blockchain and stablecoins are the biggest infrastructure upgrade to payments in decades."
These advancements not only secure trade but also pave the way for more sustainable and efficient commerce.
Environmental Responsibility in Online Commerce
Sustainability is becoming a critical factor for e-commerce growth in developing markets. Consumers in these regions are increasingly prioritizing environmental responsibility, with 80% of consumers valuing sustainability in business practices. Nearly 80% of investors are also factoring environmental considerations into their decisions. Globally, 73% of consumers are willing to change their habits to reduce environmental impact, and Millennials are leading the charge, with 75% adopting more sustainable practices compared to Baby Boomers.
The business case for sustainability is compelling. Products marketed as sustainable accounted for 50% of growth in consumer packaged goods between 2013 and 2018. Additionally, 70% of employees prefer working for companies that prioritize environmental stewardship.
Companies in developing markets are stepping up. Arçelik has introduced sustainability assessments for its suppliers and shifted to rail and ship transport to cut emissions. Natura uses sustainably sourced materials from the Amazon for its Ekos product line and has launched the Natura Amazonia Program to preserve biodiversity. Geely has responded to consumer demand with its premium electric vehicle brand Zeekr, while Siam Cement’s Zero Burn project transforms agricultural waste into fuel for eco-friendly cement production.
E-commerce businesses can also embrace sustainability by adopting practices like recyclable packaging, offering carbon-neutral shipping, and creating offset options at checkout. Additionally, launching marketplaces for reselling used products can encourage a circular economy, reducing waste and promoting reuse.
Conclusion: Growth Opportunities in Developing Markets
The digital revolution is sweeping through emerging markets at an incredible pace. By 2024, global e-commerce sales are expected to hit $6.3 trillion, with emerging markets driving over 60% of global GDP growth. For businesses and entrepreneurs, this presents an enormous chance to tap into rapidly expanding economies.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Digital transformation is becoming a core driver of global economic activity, with direct investments in this area projected to reach $8.5 trillion by 2025. These trends highlight a clear message: businesses that act now stand to gain the most.
A mobile-first strategy is no longer optional – it’s essential. Mobile devices already account for 54.8% of global e-commerce sales, and 58% of consumers prefer shopping via their phones. In regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where 70% of the population is under 30 years old, there’s a growing, tech-savvy audience eager for digital solutions. Businesses must align with these realities by embracing strategies that prioritize mobile optimization and user-friendly experiences.
Here’s how companies can seize this moment:
- Optimize for mobile: Ensure websites and platforms are fast, intuitive, and accessible on all devices. Slow load times or clunky navigation can quickly drive users away.
- Build local partnerships: Collaborate with telecom providers, tech companies, and NGOs to overcome infrastructure challenges and gain critical insights into local markets.
- Invest in digital literacy: Empowering underserved communities with digital skills not only expands the market but also fosters long-term customer loyalty.
"Digital transformation is a journey, not a destination. For SMEs, embracing this journey is essential for staying competitive and achieving long-term success." – Pedro Barboglio, Former Forbes Councils Member
Sustainability is also becoming a key factor. Governments and consumers are increasingly demanding responsible business practices. Companies that align with local environmental policies and adopt sustainable methods will gain a competitive edge. Emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and data analytics further enhance efficiency and create personalized customer experiences that boost loyalty and revenue.
The clock is ticking. McKinsey estimates that AI alone could contribute $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Businesses that embrace digital transformation today – focusing on mobile-first strategies, local partnerships, and sustainability – will be poised to lead in these growing markets.
Emerging markets are transforming rapidly. The question is: will your business evolve with them or risk being left behind?
FAQs
How are mobile-first strategies shaping e-commerce growth in emerging markets?
Mobile-first strategies are changing the game for e-commerce in emerging markets by putting mobile users front and center. With over 70% of e-commerce transactions in these regions happening on mobile devices, businesses are focusing on creating fast, easy-to-use websites and apps that work seamlessly on phones.
This shift does more than just improve the shopping experience – it helps tackle issues like limited infrastructure and restricted market access. By prioritizing mobile-friendly designs, startups and small businesses can connect with larger audiences, meet the rising demand, and open up new paths for growth in developing economies.
How do government policies support digital transformation in emerging markets?
Government policies play a key role in shaping digital progress in emerging markets by setting the stage for innovation and widespread technology use. When governments establish clear regulations, they help ensure secure online transactions, safeguard consumer interests, and support the growth of e-commerce.
Investing in digital infrastructure and education is just as crucial. Policies that boost internet access, enhance connectivity, and promote digital skills enable both businesses and individuals to fully engage in the digital economy. These measures address challenges like limited market access and infrastructure shortfalls while helping businesses grow and compete on a global scale.
Initiatives such as public-private partnerships and incentives for tech advancements add even more momentum to this transformation. They open doors for entrepreneurs and contribute to steady economic growth over the long term.
What strategies can businesses use to overcome infrastructure challenges in emerging markets?
Businesses operating in emerging markets often face significant infrastructure hurdles, but there are ways to address these challenges effectively. One key approach is building collaborative partnerships. Working closely with governments or private entities through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) allows businesses to pool resources and expertise. This collaboration can lead to practical solutions that address infrastructure gaps and support long-term development.
Another powerful strategy is adopting technology-driven tools. For instance, digital platforms can streamline logistics, mobile payment systems can enhance financial accessibility, and cloud-based operations can boost overall efficiency. By integrating these technologies, businesses can overcome logistical barriers and improve their ability to access markets. These efforts not only help navigate current challenges but also set the stage for growth in developing economies.
