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The article reports that according to a report by an Australian Institute of Management (AIM), with developing countries fast improving the quality of their products, Australian companies need fresh ideas to stay ahead of the curve. High-quality and high performance technological products are produced in China and other traditionally lower-wage countries, and Australia should promote innovation and commitment to maintain its position in the market.

The article reports on the increase in the gaming revenue in Macau as of May 2007. The gaming revenue increased despite concerns over visa restrictions from China and increased competition for the gaming dollar from other Asian jurisdictions. The growth in revenue appears to be driven by the increase in the number of table games. The number of casinos in the country is expected to increase within three years.

The article reports on the profit generated by casinos in Macau, China. The year 2006 was a stellar revenue year for casinos, with a 22 percent increase. The figures also cap a five-year period of casino growth and expansion which began with the liberalization of casino laws. The author believes that one reason for the growth was a parallel uptick in casino visitation from mainland China.

The article discusses the plan of Stanley Ho, owner of 80 percent of the Sociedade de Jogos de Macau, to be enlisted in the Hong Kong, China exchange. There is a growing doubt about its prospects and an uncertainty that Ho will be able to raise the capital required to create integrated-type resorts. Opening later in 2006 is the company's new casino, the Grand Lisboa.

Focuses on the joint venture established between Publishing and Broadcasting Ltd. and Melco Inc. Plan by the companies to develop a gaming property in Macau, China; Key features of the proposed City of Dreams project; Total value of the proposed casino development project.

The article reports on the decline in revenues of the gaming industry in Macao, China. Despite the increase in the number of tourists visiting the region, revenues slowed down for the first three quarters of 2005. There was also an increase in gaming tax. One reason may explain the decline in VIP baccarat revenues.

Reports on the free-trade agreement between China and Australia. Plan of Jiabao Wen, Chinese Premier to visit and discuss issues concerning the proposed free-trade agreement with Australia; Support of Prime Minister John Howard and Wen on the signing of the memorandum of understanding that pursue a free-trade agreement in Beijing; Aim of Wen to ensure that the agreement provides real benefits to the business.

Discusses the appointment of Ric Wells rather than Stephen Deady as lead negotiator on Australia's free-trade agreement with China. Career background of Wells and Deady; Speculation that Deady was frustrated at a lack of government support in his negotiations with the United States Trade Representative Robert Zoellick.

Reports on Australia's concerns about its free-trade agreement with China. Concern over legal transparency, security of investment and enforcement of contract law.

Focuses on the benefits that Australia will get from free trade with China. Strategic domination of China in East Asia.

Reports on the expected signing of a free-trade agreement (FTA) by the Australian and Chinese governments in 2005. Level of Australia's exports to China; China's expected investments in Australia's resource projects; Concerns about Chinese dumping; Invitation for Heather Ridout, chief executive of the Australian Industry Group, to address a conference on the FTA in China.

Reports on the campaign launched by the Australian Industry Group to delay a free trade agreement with China. Concern of its manufacturing base about the level of competition it will encounter in Australia and overseas from Chinese manufacturers; Claim of Australian manufacturers that China is far from being a market economy; Failure of the applications for anti-dumping action against Chinese manufacturers.