The rise of the Asian middle classes was the main theme of this year’s exchange which took place in Ho Chi Minh City. While Europe and the Western world witness a “middle class squeeze”, one of the most striking aspects of Asia’s emerging economies is the unprecedented growth of a middle class of several hundred millions. This expansion may in future be considered one of today’s most fundamental transformations, contributing to the emergence of a truly global middle class.

In keeping with the motto of the YLF, “Shaping Tomorrow’s World”, this year’s Forum fostered again dialogue between young Asian and European high-potentials. It also helped develop their leadership skills and strengthen their sense of economic, political and social responsibility. The participants were encouraged to debate specific challenges Asia and Europe are facing and to jointly develop a suitable response. The rise of the Asian middle classes was the main theme of this year’s exchange which took place in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Forum will be held on the occasion of the 14th Asia-Pacific Conference (APK) of German Business, where more than 700 top decision makers from business and politics gather at the invitation of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad, and the APA. The participants of the Young Leaders Forum are invited to attend the subsequent APK where the key findings of the YLF will be presented to a broader audience.

The Forum was held on the occasion of the 14th Asia-Pacific Conference (APK) of German Business, where more than 700 top decision makers from business and politics gathered at the invitation of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad, and the APA. The participants of the Young Leaders Forum attended the APK where they presented the key findings of the YLF to a broader audience.

While Europe and the Western world witness a “middle class squeeze”, one of the most striking aspects of Asia’s emerging economies is the unprecedented growth of a middle class of several hundred millions. This expansion may in future be considered one of today’s most fundamental transformations, contributing to the emergence of a truly global middle class. Apart from raising awareness about this immensely important development, the Forum established a network enabling future decision-makers to maintain regular contact and cooperation.

The Forum was held on the occasion of the 14th Asia-Pacific Conference (APK) of German Business, where more than 700 top decision makers from business and politics gathered at the invitation of Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad, and the APA. The participants of the Young Leaders Forum attended the APK where the key findings of the YLF were presented to a broader audience.