How do you estimate demand for industrial automation equipment in emerging markets?

For Southeast Asia specifically, I'd start with trade flow data from UN Comtrade (look at HS codes 8428, 8479, 8537) to get a baseline import picture by country. Then layer in IFR robotics installation data and cross-reference with local manufacturing output stats from each country's statistics bureau. Talking to 10-15 distributors on the ground usually fills in the gaps faster than any secondary source.