London and the emerging markets

The creation of the Emerging Markets Unit reflects how the London Development Agency (LDA) and the Greater London Authority (GLA) Group is developing its international promotion activity in new and significant markets.

There is a geographical shift taking place in the world economy; the Chinese and Indian economies are growing at 10% per annum and, neither London nor the world has sufficiently engaged with these economies to date.

The UK and London have particularly strong links with the emerging market economies, in terms of these pillars of the economy of tourism, trade and investment and study.

The strategy of the Emerging Markets Unit is a long term one. It forms part of the Mayor's response to globalisation and our objectives are:

• to build long term economic relationships in emerging markets
• to maximise the impact and future benefits of emerging market growth
• to define London’s international promotion opportunity presented by world sporting and cultural events
• to ensure London is differentiated in the world city market by strengthening its brand definition

Our offices

The LDA established offices in Beijing and Shanghai in April 2006. The offices are geared up to promote London as a place to study, visit and invest.

In November 2007 the Mayor will open the London-India offices in both Mumbai and Delhi. These offices mark the beginning of London and India Partners in globalisation.