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G20: Will Asian emerging markets continue to drive progress?

For the first time in 200 years, global income inequality is declining. But income inequality within nations could set this on reverse

    • Overall global income inequality appears to be declining thanks in large part to two emerging market giants, China and India.
    • Overall global income inequality appears to be declining thanks in large part to two emerging market giants, China and India. PHOTO: AFP
    Published Wed, Nov 19, 2025 · 06:19 PM

    [SOUTH AFRICA] The political mood music around this year’s G20 has been mixed, not least with the Trump team’s decision to boycott the big leadership event on Saturday (Nov 22) and Sunday.

    However, the South African chairing of the global club has also secured some clear wins with an agenda of particular relevance for key emerging markets in Asia such as Indonesia, China and India.

    Some 42 countries have confirmed their attendance for the weekend’s big event in Johannesburg.

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