Risks in tax avoidance and evasion are on the rise in Asia. Mobilization of domestic resources is needed to create better tax systems that is crucial for development. The Asian Development Bank provides technical assistance for the capacity development of tax administration in Asia.

Smoking is a global health hazard. According to the World Health Organization, around 5-6 million people from around the world died because of tobacco use in 2010. Without effective interventions, this number could double by 2030.

Multiple challenges such as limited recognition impede women’s participation in the agriculture sector. More can be achieved in irrigation when women farmers are encouraged to participate and reach their full potential in light of changing economic and social patterns, increasing populations, and diminishing water resources.

The struggle for more efficient irrigation financing remains a challenge both in the public and private sectors. Stakeholders need to work together to find sustainable solutions for long-term gains toward improved financing that will deliver the desired results.

Asia faces the daunting prospect of continuously having to cope with population growth, urbanization, and water insecurity, among other serious issues. Innovation and new technology across multiple sectors are vital to scaling up different approaches in meeting various challenges from the region.

Energy demand is projected to increase annually through 2035. An alternative approach to meeting this challenge is the scaling up of low-carbon technology (LCT) and energy efficiency. IPEx, a technology market place and brokerage platform, is designed to facilitate the transfer and deployment of new LCTs in developing Asia.