Masato Kanda re-elected as President of the Asian Development Bank

Masato Kanda was unanimously re-elected to a second five-year term as President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). His new term will begin on 24 November 2026.

Kanda first assumed office as ADB's 11th President on 27 November 2024, assuming his duties on 24 February 2025, completing the unexpired term of his predecessor, Masatsugu Asakawa.

Following his re-election, Kanda expressed gratitude to the Bank's member countries for their trust at a time when the region is facing new economic challenges and the international system is experiencing instability.

He stated that ADB must remain a "pillar of stability" for the Asia-Pacific region, but this does not mean inaction. Kanda emphasized that the Bank must mobilize the necessary resources in a timely manner to support member countries while simultaneously creating the conditions for future development.

During Kanda's tenure, ADB has increased its support to member countries amid numerous crises. In 2025, the bank provided a record $44 billion in financing. Of this amount, more than $29 billion came from ADB's own resources, and nearly $15 billion came from cofinancing.

Additional financing opportunities emerged following a historic amendment to ADB's Charter, which increased the bank's annual financing by 50%. As a result, ADB's annual commitments from its own resources could exceed $36 billion.

Prior to joining ADB, Kanda held government positions in Japan. From 2024 to 2025, he served as Special Advisor to the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Japan. Previously, from 2021 to 2024, Kanda served as Vice Minister of Finance of Japan for International Affairs.

During this period, he also represented Japan at international fora, including the G7 and G20.

ADB supports economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on sustainable development, social inclusion, and building economic resilience to external shocks. The bank collaborates with its member countries and partners using financial instruments and strategic partnerships to develop infrastructure, improve quality of life, and protect the environment.

The Asian Development Bank was established in 1966. It currently comprises 69 members, 50 of which are located in the Asia-Pacific region.