Foreign companies are renewing relations with Iran in anticipation of an agreement over its uranium enrichment programme. Will the lifting of sanctions allow the country to finally meet its potential as an investment destination? 

Vasari Global is seeking to tap into growing consumer demand in Ethiopia with a new $150m biscuit and pasta plant. And as the company's chairman explains, it is looking to become a byword for quality throughout Africa.

Fiscal reforms aimed at accelerating economic development in Egypt are paying off, with investment returning to the country, along with a stable credit outlook.

With many of the big global cities struggling with infrastructure problems, rising wages and high office and land costs, investors are increasingly looking to smaller second- and third-tier cities in which to base themselves. But where are the emerging urban areas that are posing a threat to their larger counterparts?

Over the past 15 years, global food giant Mars has enjoyed phenomenal success in the Egyptian market, not only meeting domestic demand but also using it as a base to export to other countries in the Middle East and Indian subcontinent. 

A low oil price and uncertainty over future exploration projects – with existing oil fields rapidly drying up – is threatening to tip the Angolan current account from surplus to deficit this year, and is raising questions about the future of its oil-reliant economy.