More than 60% of people in Asia and the Pacific—around 2.7 billion individuals—have moved out of extreme water insecurity over the last twelve years, according to the Asian Water Development Outlook (AWDO) 2025. The report credits this progress to stronger political commitment, targeted investments, and governance reforms since 2013. However, it warns that rapid environmental decline, worsening climate risks, and major financing gaps could reverse these gains. Wetlands, rivers, aquifers, and forests are deteriorating, while extreme weather events—storm surges, rising seas, and saltwater intrusion—continue to escalate in a region that already experiences 41% of global floods.
The AWDO highlights a significant funding requirement of $4 trillion through 2040 to meet water, sanitation, and hygiene needs across the region. ADB officials stress that despite substantial achievements, Asia’s water security remains fragile and urgently requires ecosystem restoration, stronger climate resilience, improved governance, and innovative financing mechanisms to safeguard long-term progress.
Progress is evident across several countries. In rural India, government programs have enabled 840 million people to access improved WASH services. China has strengthened its ability to manage water-related disasters through investments in flood control and advanced monitoring systems. Cambodia and Lao PDR have reduced exposure to unsafe drinking water, while Tajikistan has enhanced drought and flood preparedness with support from global early-warning initiatives.
The report emphasizes that sustaining progress depends on integrating nature into water management systems, including river health monitoring, stronger pollution controls, and watershed protection. It also calls for governance reforms that empower local authorities and promote inclusive participation, especially from women and youth. Despite improvements, current spending covers less than 40% of annual WASH investment needs, leaving a funding gap of over $150 billion each year. Blended finance and improved sector efficiency are highlighted as essential strategies to attract additional investment.
The 2025 AWDO was developed in partnership with leading global research and water institutions, reaffirming its role as a comprehensive assessment of regional water security. Supported by several international trust funds, the report underscores ADB’s ongoing commitment to advancing sustainable, resilient development across Asia and the Pacific.
