For decades, the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region has been seen as a model of
economic development. Rapid growth has raised wages and lifted millions out of
poverty. However, three-quarters of this growth in the 21st century has been driven
by significant investments in physical capital, such as buildings, machines, and
equipment, and less than one-fifth by increases in productivity.
In a series of new books, the EAP region of the World Bank is examining how
technological advances are impacting services, productivity, jobs, and the transition
to low-carbon economies. This book focuses on firms as the foundations of
productivity growth and creators of better jobs. Through a firm-level lens, it explores
the constraints and policies needed to boost firm productivity.