The Food, Water, Energy Nexus
Striking rates of economic growth notwithstanding, 550 million people remain hungry in Asia and the Pacific, 65% of the population has no safe piped water, and more than 600 million people live without electricity. Overcoming these problems requires a combined approach in which food, water and energy are treated as a nexus, rather than as separate, standalone issues, which has too often been the case in the past.
The Proliferation of FTDs: Free Trade Disagreements
Simmering trade disputes are decreasing the beneficial effects of free trade and could in the long-term damage the rules-based order upon which global commerce is based.
These Three Steps can Improve Food Security in Central Asia
Central Asian countries are facing major food security challenges, but can meet them by working together on shared solutions.
Think Services, Not Only Manufacturing
To offset the declining benefits of manufacturing, governments must increase the productivity of the services sector. This will boost growth and offer employment opportunities.
Three Areas Where RCEP May Help the Region’s Post-Pandemic Recovery
The massive Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement is expected to go into force in 2022. It could be instrumental in helping Asian economies bounce back from the pandemic.
Time for SMEs in CAREC to Move Beyond Borders
Cross-border development is crucial for SMEs to realize their potential as drivers of growth and job creation in Central Asia.
TPP and RCEP – Friends Not Foes
TPP and RCEP are not perfect, but they can unlock Asian trade liberalization and growth. Supporting open accession, an eventual Asia-Pacific FTA and complementary national policies will help achieve this end.
Trade Policy Uncertainty is at All-Time Highs—And That’s Bad News
After 500 days of trade conflict, policy uncertainty is growing worldwide and the negative effects are being felt.
Trade Resilience: Four Strategies for Strengthening Supply Chains in Asia and the Pacific
As global economic corridors gain momentum, a comprehensive approach to trade and transport facilitation is essential to strengthen supply chains for sustainable growth.
Two New Reports Help ASEAN+3 Move Steadily Toward Integrated Bond Markets
The reports provide a practical framework and regional visions for further harmonization of bond markets in the region, expected to reap huge rewards for borrowers and investors.