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Fitch Ratings has identified low commodity prices and structural reforms as two new positive risk factors for Asia-Pacific in its latest edition of the Apac Risk Radar.

Lower oil prices in particular are seen as supportive to growth and consumption for the region’s economies. Reforms announced by countries such as India and Indonesia could lead to improved prospects for sustainable growth if they are implemented successfully.

The risks associated with a further, more abrupt slowdown in China’s economic growth have been given greater urgency.

Although it is not Fitch’s base case, a disorderly correction of China’s real estate market has the potential to trigger a hard landing scenario.

Elsewhere in Apac, authorities have deployed different macro-prudential measures to rein in their residential real estate markets. In some markets prices have continued to climb.

The concern over a real estate market correction is reflected in the increase in urgency in this risk factor, although the likely impact to ratings remain unchanged from Fitch’s previous assessment.

Unilever seeks new members

Unilever Network keeps the focus on expanding new business members with its “Power Up” campaign, offering more rewards and a bonus up to seven digits earning. The company expects to increase its new membership by 20 per cent.

Monchai Dechojarassri, managing director of Unilever Thai Trading’s Unilever Network, said yesterday that the company will take an aggressive marketing approach together with innovating beauty and health products throughout the year.

During the first quarter, the company introduced a dietary supplement called Beyonde Life Sential with a phytomolecule innovation that has been well received by consumers.

Unilever Network offers four product lines – aviance, premium skincare and personal care for 60 per cent; Beyonde dietary supplement for 30 per cent; and i-fresh, oral care and Lever Home home care product for the rest.

Kemira completes acquisition

Kemira, a chemical-industry group based in Finland, has completed the acquisition of Dutch multinational AkzoNobel’s paper-chemicals business announced last July 8.

As a result of the deal, six AkzoNobel manufacturing sites, including one in Thailand, will be transferred to Kemira.

The value of the transaction is 153 million euros (Bt5.68 billion) and it will become cash-effective this quarter. The acquired business is expected to increase Kemira’s annual revenue by more than 200 million euros as of the completion date. As communicated earlier, six of the AkzoNobel paper-chemicals manufacturing sites and about 350 employees will be transferred to Kemira. The Finnish firm will also increase the production capacity of its own paper-chemical manufacturing sites in order to realise expected production synergies.