The reason we foreigners are working in Asia is because for the moment we are needed. Due to the rapid expansion going on the demand for pilots, particularly training, cannot be met locally.
When a new airline starts up it needs experience in the left seat right away and if you haven't got the requirements you will not be hired into that position.
Many airlines will look after their own nationals first when it comes to upgrading to captain, only promoting expats if no local is ready to fill the position. Expats are usually hired on fixed term contracts, which will not be renewed unless the pilots services continue to be required.
Most countries, eg India, restrict the employment of foreign F/Os in order to give low time locals a fair chance.
For one reason or another there is a shortage of suitably qualified locals for pilot positions, and those that are available are attracted to the major, national airlines in preference to low cost start ups.
As I type this there is a banner at the top of the page wanting A320 Captains for China, prehaps not enough locals around ?
