GMS 694

This course examines the challenges of conducting business in Africa. The region as a whole is profiled in terms of history, culture, demographic trends, political risk, economic performance and market opportunity. Barriers to trade and foreign direct investment will be examined along with important institutions that impact business activity. The search for opportunities and the problems associated with doing business in subsistence economies on the African continent will be a central focus of this course. Intra-regional differences in levels of economic development are discussed. Economic integration in the Region and its challenges will also be examined by assessing the performance of blocs such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). North American and European interventions in the Region are also discussed along with China's growing economic and political influence. The implications for business in Africa are developed.