In the largest gathering of transport officials and industry and sector professionals in Asia and the Pacific, the Asian Development Bank’s bi-annual Transport Forum 2014 discussed project updates, transport policies, and best practices, including new innovations in sustainable transport. Over 400 industry leaders, transport professionals, and policymakers attended the forum sessions to debate various environmental and social challenges that impact transport systems in the region. 

In a session on cross-border transport in Asia, customs is repeatedly seen as the biggest challenge in regional growth transport. The most significant operating cost is found in trying to work-around the regulatory framework, despite the infrastructure development in the region. Customs documentation also incurs huge expense in transporting goods. Costs can be lowered by moving towards an e-paperless system such as Thailand. 

Another presenter also discussed the advantage of roll-on roll-off ferries in the Philippines. This type of transportation can function as a nautical bridge and provide a good alternative for developing countries with smaller ports and port infrastructure. The need to improve multimodal transport regulation and border customs also featured in the panel discussions. 

Asian Development Bank Vice President for Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development Bindu Lohani noted that multilateral development banks have committed a total investment of $175 billion in sustainable transport in the next 10 years. This will help Asian governments tackle key transport challenges as economic corridors, public transport systems, and multimodal hubs are created. Low carbon modes of transportation and resilient infrastructure will also help address climate change concerns. 

Related Links:

Transport Forum 2014 
Business Mirror: Developing Asian Nations Need to Invest in Sustainable Transport