ADB – Quality jobs and the future of work in Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region is experiencing major changes in job creation and quality due to three key megatrends: aging and demographic transition, the Fourth Industrial Revolution and digital transition, and climate change and green transition. These trends are affecting labor demand, particularly in the care sector due to an aging population, in the digital sector with technological disruptions, and in the green sector with a focus on renewable energy technologies. Demographic changes are leading to a shift in demand from durable goods to services, while digital advancements are causing structural labor market churn. The transition to green jobs is estimated to create 30 million jobs in Southeast Asia by 2030. However, there are challenges such as job losses preceding gains and inequalities in income and skill levels. Overall, the report aims to guide policymakers in developing a more integrated approach to address the impact of these megatrends on job creation and quality in the Asia Pacific region.