Happy new year all of you celebrating the chinese new year, and if you do not, maybe you should…

With 1.35 billion habitants and a fast growing economy, China has a huge influence on the world economy and politics. Add to this all other Asians outside of China that are influenced by the Chinese zodiac. The Black Dragon years are considered to be especially lucky, occurring only every 60 years.

So what does this mean for you as an entrepreneur? Let´s look at some predictions and what opportunities they will bring:

Baby Boom

Yang Water Dragons are those born in Black Dragon Year 2012-13 and the Water elements calms their natural enthusiasm, making them sensitive, patient, intuitive and practical. In previous dragon years, countries such as China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore have all experienced baby booms, and preparations are in place for this year’s influx of baby dragons. History shows that during dragon years the increase of babies will be in the range of 10-30 % compared to a normal year, bringing great opportunities to the companies which make products for infants and children.

Areas of opportunities: Diary, Food, Nursery service/products, Toys, Children clothing.

Wedding Boom

The Chinese consider Dragon years to be the best times to get married so we will probably see a boom in this area as well. There are even some dates that are considered luckier than other.

Areas of opportunities: Food, Decorations, Flowers, Travel, Clothing.

Business Boom

Even on the side of business, small as big, there are normally more appetite for taking risks during the lucky dragon years. According to the CLSA, the areas of transport, gaming, cement, property and tourism are considered to be extra good during the black water dragon year, while oil and gas, telecoms and Internet, technology and utilities are considered more troublesome.

Areas of opportunities: Online business services, gaming, tourism.

Black Dragon Products

Last but not least, just being considered such a lucky year, a lot of products are already on the market promoting the year. Are you established on the Chinese market, maybe you can find some way to piggyback on this trend to boost sales of your current products. Typical products with the Black Dragon theme are clothing, beverages and design products such as silverware.

We wish you a great year!