YOKOHAMA -- Investment from the private sector will play a significant role in Asia's infrastructure development, but there are challenges in attracting private money since projects tend to require long-term investment and do not make immediate returns. This view arose repeatedly at seminars related to the Asian Development Bank's annual meeting in Yokohama.
The ADB estimates infrastructure needs for the region will amount to $26 trillion in the 15 years through 2030, if the region is to maintain its growth momentum, eradicate poverty, and respond to climate change. That amount is too big to be supported solely by governments and international financial organizations such as the ADB and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
