Inception: Bridging the Gap in Asian Productivity Statistics

Prior to the development of the APO Productivity Databook and database, comprehensive, comparable productivity statistics on Asia-Pacific economies were lacking. Making international comparisons with a high degree of accuracy was not simply a matter of collecting available data. This was particularly the case in the Asia-Pacific, where available data were scarce and constant examination and adjustment of accuracy were essential. This gap in data accuracy and availability catalyzed the initiative to develop harmonized productivity accounts for the region, culminating in the creation of the APO Productivity Database (APO PDB). This database encompasses the 21 APO member economies, in addition to Bhutan, Brunei, PR China, and Myanmar, and features the USA as a reference economy.

To complement this resource, additional databases were constructed by the Keio Economic Observatory of Keio University, Tokyo, including the labor database Asia QALI and database on natural resources (ANRD, which encompasses land, mineral, and energy resources). These facilitated the publication of the APO Productivity Databook, which provides a reliable reference point for assessing the quality of economic growth and productivity, allowing comparisons among countries at different stages of development in the Asia-Pacific.

Collaborative Research and Analysis on Socioeconomic Development

Since 2007, the APO has been conducting annual productivity measurement research in collaboration with the Keio Economic Observatory, led by Dr. Koji Nomura (3rd L) and Dr. Fukunari Kimura, along with a cadre of researchers and national experts, who meticulously examine productivity trends and economic growth performance.

The findings of their research are rigorously analyzed and compiled in the annual APO Productivity Databook and database, which serve as invaluable resources for various stakeholders, facilitate informed decision-making, and contribute to regional socioeconomic growth planning.

Highlights of the APO Productivity Databook

• Harmonized data construction: The databook provides a wide range of harmonized productivity data for comparisons among APO members and reference economies, including labor, capital, and total factor productivity (TFP).
• Comparative analyses: To facilitate comparisons among APO members, the analyses identify best practices and areas for improvement.
• Historical data: Historical productivity data covering 60 years from 1970 allow for trend analyses and understanding how productivity dynamics change over time.
• Methodological insights: Given the complexities associated with measuring productivity, the databook also explains the methodologies employed, ensuring the transparency and reliability of data presented.

Significance of the Databook

The APO Productivity Databook plays a pivotal role in assisting policymakers, researchers, and economic professionals in understanding the productivity landscape in the Asia-Pacific region. By providing robust, comparable data, the databook is an invaluable resource for those working to increase productivity, improve competitiveness, and enhance citizens’ quality of life in their sectors and economies.

Source: The APO Footprint: Mapping Success One Step at a Time