pixabay/Gerd Altmann

Many countries in the Asia-Pacific region are considered pioneers in many digitalisation issues.

Asia as a digital role model

The digitalization process of the economy and society is more advanced in Asia than in probably any other part of the world. The Asia-Pacific region has prepared itself for the impact of the digital transformation and is adapting to the new realities. Asian countries are leading the way in future technologies and trends such as artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, FinTech or e-health. The digitalization landscape in the region is diverse, with national and regional differences in readiness, capitalization, and regulatory capacities of digital transformation, among others.

Proactive policies for smart technologies

The global trend of digital transformation certainly has its origins in Asia-Pacific and continues to gain momentum. This is due not least to the high willingness to use technological innovations and experiment with existing processes and structures in many Asian countries. In addition, Asia is home to numerous technology and high-tech groups. The constant development of digital capabilities and the transfer of innovations to applications aims to ensure long-term competitiveness. Moreover, governments in Asia are proactively driving digitalization. Guiding principles and strategies around smart cities and smart economies are being developed and promoted - often in cooperation with the private sector.

The challenges of digital transformation also require Asia-Pacific to find answers. Cybersecurity, data protection, setting rules and standards for the digital economy and society, and not least better and inclusive internet access are just some of the issues for which Germany, Europe and the Asia-Pacific countries must jointly develop sustainable solutions.

#KAS4innovation – Digital transformation as a core topic

For the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V. with its offices and regional programs in Asia-Pacific, digitization, innovation and solutions to resulting challenges are core topics. Together with regional actors from politics, business, society and science, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung promotes the exchange of knowledge between Germany, Europe and Asia with the aim of creating economic and social value through the use of digital technologies.