To strengthen support and collaboration in the regional productivity movement as well as explore new project focus areas, Dr. Sarote Phornprapha, Board of Directors of the Thailand Productivity Institute (FTPI), accompanied by Chulalongkorn University Lecturer Dr. Pattarawan Mai Prasarnphanich, called on APO Secretary-General Dr. Indra on 15 November 2022 at the Secretariat.

Dr. Phornprapha and Secretary-General Dr. Indra exchanged views on emerging productivity challenges in APO members and suggested possible long-term solutions to them. For example, the hospitality sector, which has recently been relied upon by many countries during post-COVID-19 economic recovery efforts, could be reinvigorated if injected with additional productivity measures. Dr. Phornprapha additionally suggested that in mitigating the impact of aging populations on productivity, enterprises involved in longevity and well-being might be the next productivity improvement focus area. APO members with experience in this sector could be facilitated in transferring their know-how to others. The discussion confirmed the importance of incorporating evidence-based productivity interventions in APO programs and projects.

Secretary-General Dr. Indra and Dr. Phornprapha concluded their meeting by agreeing to continue consultations and exchanges of ideas to strengthen project implementation and expand the APO’s socioeconomic impact throughout the Asia-Pacific region.