OPINION

Women are a potential boost to the region's economy

News, Roberta Clarke, Published on 03/08/2016

» By most measures, the Asean region is an economic powerhouse. It is the seventh largest economy in the world. Labour force expansion and productivity improvements drive GDP growth and the 10 member states are making impressive strides in both areas. Almost 60% of total growth since 1990 has come from sectors such as manufacturing, retail, telecommunications and transportation. But the evidence shows that the gains are not distributed fairly and to redress this, governments need to plan and implement policies that better promote inclusive, sustainable and fair growth.