The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a new digital transformation strategy for 2026 to 2030 and announced a $20-billion initiative aimed at expanding digital infrastructure and supporting the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) across Asia and the Pacific.
The strategy, titled “Digital Transformation for Development: Advancing Inclusion, Security, and Innovation”, outlines ADB’s plans to help member countries adopt digital technologies to improve public services, strengthen economic competitiveness, and address development challenges.
A key component of the strategy is the Asia-Pacific Digital Highway initiative, a $20-billion program designed to improve digital connectivity and access, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
“There is a technological wave breaking across Asia and the Pacific. We can ride that wave to greater prosperity or be pulled under by it,” said ADB president Masato Kanda.
“ADB is harnessing these monumental changes to benefit the people who need them most, including through our $20 billion Asia-Pacific Digital Highway initiative to expand digital infrastructure, connectivity, and access across the region.”
ADB said the strategy focuses on five areas: expanding digital infrastructure, promoting responsible AI adoption, strengthening cybersecurity and data privacy, developing digital skills, and building interoperable digital systems.
Under the plan, the multilateral lender will support countries in assessing their digital readiness, implementing regulatory reforms, and developing workforce capabilities needed for a technology-driven economy.
The strategy also emphasizes the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and data governance frameworks as governments and businesses increasingly rely on digital platforms and AI-powered services.
ADB said it will work with governments, private sector organizations, and development partners to mobilize financing, provide technical expertise, and deploy digital solutions across the region.
The bank said the initiative aims to ensure that advances in digital technology and AI contribute to inclusive economic growth while reducing, rather than widening, existing social and economic disparities.
