On 21st May, 2025, India assumed the Chairmanship of the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) for the 2025–26 term during the 67th Governing Body Meeting (GBM) held in Jakarta, Indonesia from 20th–22nd May, 2025. The Indian delegation, led by Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and APO Director for India, emphasized India’s commitment to driving regional collaboration and productivity enhancement.
India’s Vision for APO Leadership
Focusing on Innovation and Sustainability
As the APO Chair, India aims to lead the organization’s strategic agenda by prioritizing digital transformation, sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The country reaffirmed its dedication to the APO Vision 2030 and the Green Productivity 2.0 framework, which focus on fostering inclusive and results-driven programs to address evolving productivity challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
Role of the Asian Productivity Organization
Promoting Regional Productivity
Established in 1961, the Asian Productivity Organization, headquartered in Tokyo, is an intergovernmental body that promotes productivity enhancement through mutual cooperation and capacity building. It comprises 21 member economies, including India, Japan, Republic of Korea, and Indonesia. As a founding member, India has significantly shaped the APO’s vision and supported its initiatives for regional development.
India’s Contributions to APO Programs
Capacity Building and Demonstration Projects
Through the National Productivity Council (NPC) under DPIIT, over 100 Indian professionals participate annually in APO-led capacity-building initiatives. These programs enhance productivity in India’s industrial, services, and agricultural sectors. Notable demonstration projects include Green Productivity and Industry 4.0 applications tailored for MSMEs, driving sustainable growth and technological advancement.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | 21st May, 2025 |
| Location | Jakarta, Indonesia |
| Organization | Asian Productivity Organization (APO) |
| India’s Role | Chairmanship for 2025–26 |
| Key Focus | Digital transformation, sustainability, innovation |
Significance of the Governing Body Meeting
Setting Strategic Directions
The APO Governing Body, the organization’s highest decision-making authority, meets annually to set strategic directions, approve major proposals, and review Secretariat performance. The 67th GBM, hosted by the Government of Indonesia, provided a platform for India to outline its leadership priorities, emphasizing regional collaboration and inclusive development to address productivity challenges.
Relevance for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
For students preparing for competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, or State PSC, India’s APO Chairmanship is a significant topic under international organizations, economic development, and current affairs. Aspirants should focus on:
- The role of the Asian Productivity Organization in regional productivity enhancement.
- India’s leadership in advancing APO Vision 2030 and Green Productivity 2.0.
- The contribution of NPC and DPIIT to capacity-building initiatives.
- The importance of digital transformation and sustainability in Asia-Pacific development.
This development highlights India’s growing influence in regional cooperation and productivity-driven growth.
Key Highlights
- India assumed APO Chairmanship for 2025–26 on 21st May, 2025 in Jakarta.
- Led by Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, India focuses on digital transformation and sustainability.
- APO comprises 21 member economies promoting productivity enhancement.
- Over 100 Indian professionals benefit from APO capacity-building programs annually.
- Relevant for competitive exams under international organizations, economic development, and current affairs.