IMF's Srinivasan warns China, South Korea, Japan could see workforce decline by 25% by 2050

Krishna Srinivasan: Krishna Srinivasan is the Director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, where he oversees economic surveillance, policy advice, and research for countries across the region. In recent months, he has led analyses and presentations on how demographic aging is reshaping growth prospects, including warnings about workforce declines in post-dividend economies. His contributions emphasize adapting through productivity improvements and other structural measures. International Monetary Fund: The International Monetary Fund is a global financial institution that monitors economic developments, provides policy advice, and offers financial support to its member countries. Krishna Srinivasan, its Asia and Pacific Department Director, recently presented key findings from IMF research on regional challenges at events tied to the 2026 Annual Meetings. This work directly addresses demographic pressures on Asian economies highlighted in the news. Demographics: Asia-Pacific economies are reaching a turning point as earlier growth drivers like abundant labor and expanding trade lose momentum due to aging populations. Regional Focus: Post-dividend economies such as those in East Asia are particularly affected, prompting differentiated policy approaches across the diverse demographic profiles within the region. Policy Response: IMF analysis highlights the role of productivity enhancements, including through technology adoption, and deeper regional integration to help offset demographic pressures on growth.