As great powers hedge their bets, Asean needs pragmatism and integration to drive growth: ADB

[SINGAPORE] Instead of turning to protectionist measures, South-east Asia’s willingness to deepen economic relations – both within and beyond the region – will be key to accelerating its growth, said Albert Park, chief economist at the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

“The instinct for most countries in the region has been to double down on stronger integration, not to devolve into a world of protectionism,” Dr Park told The Business Times in an exclusive interview.

The ADB launched the latest edition of its annual Asian Economic Integration Report on Thursday (Feb 26) at a seminar held in conjunction with the Iseas-Yusof Ishak Institute.