Maritime Cooperation in SASEC: South Asia Subregional Economic CooperationMost South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) countries rely on maritime transport for international trade. Stronger maritime relations are crucial to achieve the economic growth potential for the subregion. This report looks at how countries can strengthen international trade by improving maritime cooperation among the SASEC countries, comprised of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It gives an overview of the SASEC maritime sector and identifies collaboration initiatives that could address key challenges. Author: Asian Development Bank Year: 2019 Download Tags: Transport, Trade Facilitation, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2019 Update: Fostering Growth and Inclusion in Asia's CitiesGrowth in developing Asia remains strong despite the slowing down of international trade and a weakening of investments. In South Asia, growth momentum has slowed, with growth forecasts lowered to 6.2% for 2019 and retained at 6.7% for 2020. Growth in India has softened but is expected to bounce back to 7.2% in 2020. Bangladesh and Nepal performed better than projected. Bhutan’s growth slowed to 5.3% in fiscal year (FY) 2019 due to a decline in hydroelectric generation. Growth projection for FY2020 is retained at 6.0%. In Sri Lanka, growth forecast has been lowered for 2019 and 2020. Forecasts for Maldives is retained as tourist arrivals increased in the first half of 2019. In Southeast Asia, growth projections for Myanmar has been retained. Author: Asian Development Bank Year: 2019 Download Tags: Hydropower, ADB, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka Services for Trade Competitiveness: Country and Regional Assessments of Services TradeThis book applies methodologies for assessing competitiveness of countries’ services sector. It examines the types of barriers to services in the regulatory environment and identifies the policy implications. It aims to guide policymakers in the area of services in international trade. The chapter on diversifying Nepal’s economy assesses the country’s trade potential in services. Using the Services Trade Competitiveness Diagnostic toolkit, it identifies policy measures that can help Nepal identify strategies for greater integration in the global marketplace. Author: Claire Hollweg and Sebastian Saez, eds. Year: 2019 Download Tags: Energy, Nepal, Services, Trade, WB ASYCUDA Programme: Compendium of Case Studies 2019Through customs automation and reform projects, the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and production of trade-related statistics. This compendium includes details of achievements and benefits reported by countries—including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka—after implementing ASYCUDA systems. The information suggests ASYCUDA is not just a technical assistance program but also a development program. Author: United Nations Conference on Trade and Development Year: 2019 Download Tags: Sustainable Development Goals, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Trade Global Economic Prospects, June 2019South Asia enjoyed solid economic activity in 2018 with gross domestic product (GDP) growth at 7% owing to strong domestic demand. Risks to the outlook include possible re-escalation of political uncertainties, financial sector weaknesses due to nonperforming assets, and fiscal challenges amid elections in several countries. Author: World Bank Group Year: 2019 Download Tags: WB, South Asia, Trade |
