Member's Documents
Evaluation of ADB Support for the South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation Program, 2011–2023
Published by: Independent Evaluation Department, Asian Development Bank
ADB supports three major RCI programs: CAREC, GMS, and SASEC, facilitating regional cooperation through loans, grants, knowledge transfer, and technical assistance. The SASEC subregion, larger in GDP and population than CAREC or GMS, has high economic growth but less openness to trade, with significant potential for intra-subregional trade, energy, and investment growth.
The evaluation noted progress in transport and energy connectivity but highlighted ongoing challenges such as border delays and limited economic competitiveness improvements. It also pointed out the need for greater attention to regional public goods and private sector development.
