Edimon Ginting

This book explores issues relating to the role and performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, the People's Republic of China, and Viet Nam, with insights on evolving roles in the Republic of Korea. Each of the five developing member countries of ADB featured in this book provides a unique development context, but together they present a panoramic view of SOEs in the region. In the Republic of Korea, meanwhile, the evolving role of the public sector in various stages of SOE development is observed. The corporate governance framework is also highlighted in this book, as it posits that government agenda should focus on SOE reforms to promote the long-term productivity-induced growth that is essential to Asia’s transition to high-income status.

This is a pivotal period in Sri Lanka’s economic development. The end of conflict opens a door for accelerated economic growth and poverty reduction. Reform is needed to regain momentum because fiscal imbalances and rising public debt could jeopardize macroeconomic stability. The economy would benefit from significant trade and commercial policy reform. The labor market suffers from sluggish growth of formal sector employment and from skills mismatches, which can be addressed by changes in education policy and systems.