As we enter the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a revolution defined by frontier technological breakthroughs such as AI, robotics, 3D printing, and the Internet of Things amongst others, it will be critical that these technologies work for society and the environment as well as the economy if we are to achieve the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This report reviews the status of frontier technologies in the Asia-Pacific region. It stresses that while there are question marks over the scale and pace of the frontier technological transition, governments need to be prepared, and to put effective policies in place. The policy framework for the next generation of technology and innovation should focus on creating an enabling environment for frontier technologies to positively impact economy, society, and environment; and to reduce inequalities.