Local Voices, Global Mobility
By Sandra Goudswaard, Client Relations Manager, Voerman Group
As global mobility evolves, emerging markets are taking center stage—offering new opportunities, challenges, and perspectives for companies and their people. Inspired by the Worldview Webinar hosted by one of Voerman’s mobility business partners Hilldrup and Voerman, I set out to gather firsthand insights from our Voerman colleagues across Asia, Africa, and Central Europe. Their experiences reveal not only the dynamic growth in these regions, but also the personal stories and local expertise that make Voerman a trusted partner worldwide. Join me as we explore what is driving the change, and how our teams are helping clients navigate the future of relocation.
Dynamic Asia
As I spoke with Charles Leo, CCO of Asian Mobility Services, it became clear that Asia’s growth story is as diverse as its cultures. Charles explained, "Asia is so dynamic—every country is finding its own niche to grow, and the China plus one strategy is opening up opportunities across the region."
Vietnam stands out for its rapid expansion in electronics and semiconductor supply chains, while Indonesia’s vast nickel reserves are powering the future of EV batteries. Malaysia’s Johor is emerging as a digital infrastructure hub, thanks to cross-border collaboration with Singapore. Meanwhile, India’s GIFT City is rising as a regional finance platform, and the Philippines continues to attract service offshoring.
Charles highlighted how these shifts are changing mobility patterns: "We’re seeing more intra-ASEAN moves, shorter project-based assignments, and a growing need for education and settling-in support in Tier-2 cities. Singapore’s role is evolving too—from a traditional hub to an orchestrator of regional talent and innovation."
For Voerman, having teams on the ground means we’re not just following trends—we’re helping shape them, supporting clients as they navigate new markets and opportunities.
Africa’s New Era: Open for Business
As I reached out to Nick Voerman, Business Development Manager for Africa Mobility Services, his enthusiasm for the continent’s transformation was unmistakable. "Africa is open for business!" Nick told me, highlighting how governments are embracing openness and healthy competition. Visa reforms—like Tanzania’s one-year multi-entry visa for US nationals and Angola’s free entry for several nationalities—are making it easier for people to explore opportunities and invest.
Nick shared, "There’s a true transition happening. Many countries are moving away from overreliance on traditional sectors and focusing on diversification. Agriculture remains a backbone, but renewable energy, infrastructure, and poultry are all becoming major growth areas." What strikes me most was his optimism about Africa’s youth: "Within the next 30 years, the population will double, and half of the world’s young people are expected to come from an African country. It means a massive talent pool and workforce potential."
For expats and local hires alike, Africa offers untapped markets and the chance to grow careers at home. While risks like political instability and health crises remain, Nick emphasized the continent’s resilience: "Businesses are adapting faster, and institutions are becoming stronger. The direction is clear: Africa is moving forward, and is becoming one of the most dynamic and exciting emerging markets in the world."
Working alongside our teams in Africa, I see firsthand how Voerman is helping clients navigate these opportunities—providing local expertise and support in a rapidly changing environment.
Beyond the Emerging Market Label
My conversations with our colleagues in Central Europe revealed a region in transition. Lena Short, our Business Development Manager in Poland, described the country as ‘economically developed in many respects but still classified as an emerging market.’ Poland’s steady GDP growth, diversified industries, and strategic location make it a core link in Europe’s supply and value chains. Lena explained, ‘Poland is a fast-developing economy and key European logistics hub, combining strong growth, diverse industries, and strategic location.’
Yet, as I spoke with Wiegert Smallegange and Vadim Hristov in the Czech Republic, a different perspective emerged. Wiegert noted, "Many still label the Czech Republic as an emerging market. However, this description fits its development over the past 30–35 years more than its current state. Both the country and its economy are now well developed. Production levels are above those of typical emerging markets, while market growth potential is considerably lower."
Vadim also highlighted the region’s evolving role: "Central Europe has access to a highly educated workforce, and tech in general is massive. The main growth area we see currently is from Central Europe into Eastern Europe, particularly Ukraine, despite ongoing conflict. There’s a lot of innovation going out there, especially in military and defense tech, and we predict the biggest explosion will be in that region."
What I found most interesting is how perceptions are shifting. Central Europe is no longer just a low-cost location—it’s a hub for innovation, logistics, and talent. Voerman’s presence here means we’re ready to support clients with local knowledge and flexible solutions, even as the region continues to evolve.
Looking Ahead: the start of your journey
As I wrapped up my conversations with colleagues across Asia, Africa, and Central Europe, one theme stood out: emerging markets are not just about rapid growth or shifting supply chains—they’re about people, adaptability, and opportunity. Whether it’s the entrepreneurial spirit in Africa, the dynamic innovation in Asia, or the evolving landscape of Central Europe, Voerman’s teams are deeply connected to these changes, ready to guide clients through both challenges and possibilities.
Our global reach means we’re not just observers—we’re active participants, helping clients and their people feel at home wherever opportunity leads. In every region, our experts bring local knowledge, personal experience, and a genuine commitment to making mobility work.
If you’re exploring new horizons or seeking guidance in dynamic markets, Voerman’s experts are here to help. A Worldwide Welcome awaits!