Asian Development Outlook 2007 (Paperback)

The annual Asian Development Outlook provides a comprehensive economic analysis of 43 economies in developing Asia and the Pacific. On the basis of the Asian Development Bank's unique knowledge of the region, this 19th edition examines trends and prospects in Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, in the context of global economic movements. This year's ADO throws a spotlight on a variety of structural issues in developing Asia, discussing prospects over the next few decades which will depend on how the region responds and adapts to a constantly changing environment. Developing Asia's performance in 2006 was exceptional, with aggregate gross domestic product for the region growing at 8.3%, the fastest since 1995. Growth was aided by highly favorable external environment, benign domestic circumstances, good economic management, and the fruits of reform efforts. Remarkable growth in India and the People's Republic of China underpinned this regional expansion. Strong growth looks set for 2007 and 2008. Lower oil prices should help soothe inflationary pressures as might shows that those countries who have sustained fast growth in developing Asia have both successfully industrialized and expanded services. In most Asian countries, fostering both industry and services is the only viable development model. The following elements are crucial for this: investment that expands opportunities for productivity gains and provides infrastructure services that are vital for economies of scale and other benefits; institutions that lower risks and uncertainty any appreciation of regional currencies. Domestic tightening measures already taken in 2006 and followed up in 2007will help guide down both output growth and inflation. Macroeconomic stabilization, micro (second-generation) reforms, and structural rebalancing are the biggest challenges facing the region. To sustain growth, Asia needs to do better at creatingjobs. The chapter on growth amid change in developing Asia featured in this issue of the Asian Development Outlook for businesses; markets that support labor mobility; and institutions that provide social protection. A chapter on education and structural change, also included in this edition, examines links between education and changes in the structure of the economy.