News

Get news and updates on initiatives to advance inclusive and sustainable development in the region.

Solar engineers in Indonesia

Evolving social, economic, health, and climate-related risks are increasing the urgency of building social protection systems that are more inclusive, adaptive, and resilient. Photo credit: ADB.

ASEAN Needs Robust, Inclusive, and Adaptive Social Protection Systems to Build Resilience against Shocks

A high-level meeting of senior government officials, development partners, and experts examined emerging risks and trends, challenges and opportunities, and areas for regional cooperation.

Cross-border paperless trade continues to advance in Southeast Asia with the expansion of the ASEAN Single Window. Photo credit: ADB.

Digital Trade Facilitation Advances in Asia, but AI Uptake Still Slow

Southeast Asia makes notable progress in transitioning to paperless trade.

The 48th ASEAN Summit was held on 8 May 2026 in Cebu, Philippines. Photo courtesy of ASEAN.

Unity Amidst Adversity: ASEAN Outlines Priority Actions for Regional Resilience

ADB commits to mobilize $30 billion by 2030 to support key flagship initiatives in Southeast Asia.

From left: Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia President Prabowo Subianto, Malaysia Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Philippines President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos.

Special BIMP-EAGA Summit in Cebu Adopts Vision 2035

The 10-year strategic roadmap seeks to enhance resilience and inclusive development for shared prosperity and sustainability.

Countries need to manage risks, maintain macroeconomic stability, and protect vulnerable populations. Photo credit: ADB

Solid Growth Forecast for Developing Southeast Asia but Middle East Tensions Weigh on Outlook

ADB steps up support to help region cope with disruptions and ensure long-term resilience.

The launch of the Regional Connectivity Fund, which will support the ASEAN Power Grid), is a concrete sign of ADB’s longstanding and deep commitment to Southeast Asia, says Zhang. Photo credit: ADB.

ADB’s New Director General in Southeast Asia Shares Vision for Region

Nianshan Zhang will lead ADB’s strategic agenda in Southeast Asia, advancing the bank’s delivery of its sovereign, nonsovereign, and advisory solutions in nine countries.