French energy giant Total is the biggest Western firm with operations in Burma.

So Western firms hoping to turn a profit in Burma may already have missed the boat.

But once they see a Western firm has sponsored us, it's easier to convince them.

During previous slowdowns, lower fuel costs have boosted the profitability of Western firms.

"What works in a Western firm doesn't necessarily work in China."

He has also focused his research on the challenges that Western firms face because of the emergence of multinational corporations from developing countries.

The field was closed to Western firms due to years-long sanctions.

President Kabila changed course for a while and concluded fewer contracts with Western firms.

Western firms can help here with expertise and advanced technology.

Competition form more established Western European firms put many of these early enterprises out of business.