Economic Growth

Challenge

Many economies in Southeast and East Asia are booming. Others, however, still suffer from high rates of poverty, unemployment, and underemployment, which are largely the result of slow economic growth. To create a supportive environment for regional growth, it is essential to foster economic integration and improved governance among economies at significantly different stages of development. 

USAID Response

USAID works with governments in the region to improve business law; reform banks, ministries and other institutions; and to strengthen fiscal and monetary policies. USAID also supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in their efforts to enhance trade, economic growth and regional governance. USAID programs strengthen regional competitiveness through legal reform, anti-corruption efforts, access to credit, support for micro-, small- and medium-sized businesses, and cluster development - the geographic concentration of businesses in a particular field.

Current Activities

• Laos: Develop an Alternative to Opium Production
• APEC Technical Assistance and Training Facility (TATF)

Economic Growth Articles

• Leaders Discuss Need for Regional Reforms at SEA CLIR Trade Forum
• Longtail Fishing Boat Repair Center & Pier Open
• USAID Workshop Helps Lao National Assembly Prepare for WTO Accession
• U.S. and Laos Launch Second Phase of Trade Project
• USAID Supports Vietnam National Single Window to Promote Growth
• USAID Supports Vietnam's Efforts to Speed Customs Clearance with National Single Window Workshop
• Public and Private Sectors Vow to Work Together to Promote Food Security in Southeast Asia
• ASEAN Water Officials Prepare for Droughts
• The U.S. Supports Laos to Speed Customs Clearance
• ASEAN Trade Pilot Program: Single Window
• Advancing Food Security: MARKET Program Launch