India Takes Over Chairmanship of Asian Productivity Organization for 2025–26

India has assumed the prestigious Chairmanship of the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) for the 2025–26 term at the 67th Governing Body Meeting held in Jakarta, Indonesia. Spearheading the Indian delegation is Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary, DPIIT and APO Director for India. The leadership transition signals India’s growing influence in regional productivity and innovation agendas.

Why in News?:

India officially took over the Chairmanship of the APO at the 67th Governing Body Meeting (GBM) held from 20–22 May 2025 in Jakarta, showcasing its commitment to sustainable development, digital transformation, and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region. This marks a significant step in furthering India’s leadership in regional and global productivity frameworks.

Key Highlights

• Event: 67th Governing Body Meeting of APO
• Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
• Date: 20–22 May 2025
• Chairmanship Term: 2025–2026
• India’s Representative: Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, IAS, Secretary, DPIIT

Objectives of India’s Chairmanship

• Strengthening implementation of APO Vision 2030
• Expanding Green Productivity 2.0 as a framework for sustainable growth

Promoting regional cooperation in,

• Digital transformation
• Innovation
• Sustainability
• Entrepreneurship
• Delivering inclusive, responsive, and results-driven APO programs

Background of APO

• Founded: 1961
• Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
• Members: 21 countries, including India, Japan, Indonesia, Iran, Korea, and Vietnam
• Mandate: To enhance productivity across the Asia-Pacific through mutual cooperation and capacity building

India’s Role in APO

• A founding member and active contributor
• Implements capacity-building programs through the National Productivity Council (NPC)

Focus areas

• Industry 4.0 for MSMEs
• Green Productivity models
• Over 100 Indian professionals trained annually via APO programs

Strategic Significance

• India’s leadership aligns with its national vision of being a global productivity hub
• Supports sustainable and technology-driven growth in developing economies
• Expands India’s influence in regional governance and policy frameworks