PARIS, France - Investment capital flowing into renewable energies such as wind power climbed from $80 billion in 2005 to a record $100 billion in 2006, according to a new report from the UN Environment Programme, UNEP. The trend analysis cites climate change concerns, increasing government support, and high oil prices as reasons for the boom.

MONTREAL - Fewer Canadian-made drugs were sold to American customers via the Internet in 2006, according to data compiled by a pharmaceutical industry group.

MONT-SAINT-HILAIRE, Que. - Axcan Pharma Inc. (TSX:AXP) is on track to reach its forecast of US$307 million to US$312 million in revenue for fiscal 2007, the company said ahead of its annual shareholders meeting Wednesday.

FAIRFIELD, Conn. - General Electric Co. was close to buying the diagnostics division of Abbott Laboratories, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

CLEVELAND, OH - Demand for cosmeceutical products is expected to increase 8.5 percent per year to over $8 billion in 2010, propelled by a stream of new and technologically advanced product introductions offering age-defying and other appearance-enhancing benefits for an aging population. Limiting opportunities will be competition from alternative treatments, such as laser resurfacing and cosmetic surgery, which often offer more dramatic results, though at a greater cost in terms of time, money and safety.

At the 13th Africa Upstream conference, which opened today in Cape Town, optimism is present all over. Record oil prices and the world's least explored continent have it in for lucrative investments. International oil companies, hungrily flirting with African states, say the continent holds the key to steadily rising energy demands, and governments eagerly respond to the flirt.

MUSCAT --- Coinciding with the upcoming Eid holiday season, American Express Middle East is revitalising its partnership with Gulf Air and Royal Jordanian Airlines with the international airline programme, exclusively designed for American Express' platinum and gold charge and credit card members, according to a top Amex official.