11.   But a deal is still dependent on key holdouts from Asian and Latin American countries allowing foreign competitors into their markets, they said.

12.   However, Swissair and Sabena were forced to make some concessions on allocation of route slots between Switzerland and Belgium to allow EU competitors on those routes.

13.   No prize money will be offered this season, although Smith said it would be next season after FISA bylaws are changed to allow competitors to receive cash awards.

14.   Rising wages in Thailand have allowed competitors from China, Vietnam and Indonesia, where wages are lower, to grab more market share away.