Piyush Goyal calls for inclusive, sustainable and future-ready productivity growth at 68th APO Governing Body Meeting

NEW DELHI : Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, addressed the inaugural session of the 68th Governing Body Meeting of the Asian Productivity Organization (APO), underscoring the critical role of productivity-driven growth in shaping resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economies across the Asia-Pacific region.

Commending the APO for its longstanding contribution to strengthening productivity ecosystems, institutional capacity, and regional cooperation, Shri Goyal highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in supporting member economies amid evolving global economic dynamics.

Addressing delegates and policymakers from across the Asia-Pacific, the Minister noted that the global economy is witnessing rapid technological advancement, digital transformation, and structural shifts, making it imperative for nations to pursue growth models that are not only innovation-led but also equitable and future-ready.

Shri Goyal stressed the importance of empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), describing them as key engines of economic growth, employment generation, and innovation. He emphasized the need to enhance MSME competitiveness through improved access to advanced technologies, affordable financing, skill development, digital capabilities, and stronger market linkages.

Highlighting the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies, the Minister stated that technological progress must be leveraged as a force for inclusion and shared prosperity. He called for collaborative efforts to ensure that digital transformation bridges development gaps and creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, particularly small enterprises and underserved sectors.

Reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to regional collaboration, Shri Goyal emphasized the importance of building resilient supply chains, strengthening economic partnerships, and fostering innovation-driven cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region. He noted that stronger regional integration and collaborative policymaking would be essential in addressing global challenges and unlocking new growth opportunities.

The Minister further reiterated India’s support for initiatives that promote measurable outcomes, knowledge-sharing, capacity building, and sustainable industrial growth through deeper engagement among APO member economies.

The 68th Governing Body Meeting of the Asian Productivity Organization serves as an important platform for member countries to deliberate on strategies aimed at enhancing productivity, innovation, sustainability, and economic resilience across the region.