The Role of Emerging Markets in the New Space Economy

Overview

Emerging markets in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are rapidly becoming critical contributors to the global space economy. Their growing capabilities, strategic geographic locations, and demographic advantages provide unique economic and geopolitical opportunities.

Economic Implications

• Leapfrogging Technologies: These regions are adopting satellite communications, Earth observation, and navigation services without legacy infrastructure, enabling rapid service deployment and fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems.

• Public-Private Ecosystems: Governments are partnering with global space corporations and startups to build local capacity, develop manufacturing hubs, and establish regulatory frameworks tailored to their growth trajectories.

• Talent and Workforce Development: Education initiatives, such as regional space universities and cross-border research collaborations, are creating skilled human capital crucial for sustainable growth.

Notable Initiatives

• The African Space Agency’s initiative to coordinate continental satellite programs for agriculture, disaster management, and connectivity.

• Brazil’s investments in satellite launch capabilities with global partnerships.

• Vietnam’s integration into Asia-Pacific space collaborations focusing on remote sensing and data services.

Economic Outcomes

These emerging markets diversify the global supply chain, reduce costs through regional manufacturing, and create new demand centers for space-based services, fostering a more inclusive and resilient space economy.