ADB Report Says Global Value Chains Drive Asia’s Growth but Benefits Uneven

SAMARKAND, Uzbekistan, May 6, 2026 (KPT) — Greater specialization in global production has helped Asia and the Pacific achieve growth, create jobs and reduce poverty over the past 25 years, the Asian Development Bank said Wednesday in its Asian Development Policy Report 2026.

The report, Global Value Chains and Inclusive Development, finds the region now accounts for a third of global value chain trade, with developing economies doubling their share from 9 percent to 18 percent between 2000 and 2023. East and Southeast Asia have become deeply embedded in production networks, while smaller and lower‑income economies remain largely excluded.

“Greater geoeconomic fragmentation reduces opportunities for firms to benefit from global value chains, risking slower industrialization and growth,” said ADB Chief Economist Albert Park. He called for support to less‑developed economies through stronger infrastructure, logistics and business environments.

The report warns benefits remain uneven, with large firms capturing most gains while small and medium‑sized enterprises face barriers. It identifies resilience, environmental sustainability and inclusion as policy priorities to strengthen integration amid geopolitical tensions and rapid technological change.