Editor's note:

Throughout 2009 the business community in China and beyond has been bedeviled by worldwide uncertainties about the economic situation. More than ever before, entrepreneurs and investors have kept a keen eye on the prevailing factors that will shape any recovery or mark a continued downturn.

Whilst the current state of the global economy can offer few certainties, the business acumen of a small group of entrepreneurs has allowed them to continue to develop their commercial interests and, in some cases, even seen them turn the international fiscal slowdown to their own advantage.

One such group can be found within the confines of the Beijing Economic Development Area(BDA). Located in Beijing's Yizhuang area- and perhaps now better known as"E-town", the BDA is home to a number of investors and entrepreneurs determined to make the best of the international downturn.

As a hi-technology and modern manufacturing center, the BDA has attracted more than 26,000 enterprises from in excess of 30 countries and regions- including Nokia, Mercedes-Benz, GM, Bayer, Panasonic, Danieli, Bosch Rexroth, Sanyo, Cocacola, Corning, Kimberly-Clark, Schneider, Mitsubishi, ABB, LG, DHL, Cummins, Tetra Pak, Kraft and Lotte.

For many, the area offers an ideal investment environment with many high-quality facilities geared to boosting business development. This commitment has demonstrated a broad appeal across a number of sectors, including electronic information, biological pharmacy, auto manufacturing and equipment manufacturing.

With 10 years of success under the BDA's belt, China Daily takes the opportunity to salute the businesses that have flourished in the zone, whilst many businesses elsewhere have gone to the wall.