Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda announced his intention to stand for reelection for a second term. His current term is set to conclude on November 23, 2026.
Since assuming office on February 24, 2025, Mr. Kanda has overseen a period of “radical transformation,” positioning the ADB as a stabilizing force amid compounding global shocks. Under his leadership, the bank has scaled its operations to record levels and pioneered landmark policy reforms.
“In this time of radical transformation where the development landscape is threatened by multiple, compounding shocks, the ADB provides an anchor of stability for our developing member countries,” said Mr. Kanda. “With the trust of our partners, it would be my honor to continue leading ADB for the next five years. My foremost priority will be urgent action to protect our region against the challenges of today, while we build a brighter future for the next generation.”
Under Mr. Kanda’s tenure, the ADB has achieved significant milestones in development finance and regional cooperation:
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Record-Breaking Finance: In 2025, the ADB committed $29.3 billion from its own resources—a 20% increase over 2024. Combined with partner contributions, total development finance reached $44 billion.
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Regional Connectivity: The bank spearheaded major initiatives, including $10 billion for the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) and over $10 billion for the CAREC Program.
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Food Security & Sustainability: ADB delivered $14 billion toward its $40 billion food systems transformation goal and updated its energy policy to include support for nuclear power for the first time.
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Institutional Reform: Mr. Kanda oversaw the first amendment to the ADB Charter in its 60-year history, effectively unlocking a 50% expansion in operational capacity.
The ADB has maintained its reputation as a “first responder” for the region. It was the first Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) to announce a support package for the Middle East conflict and provided rapid emergency assistance to nations including Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Philippines, Viet Nam, and Sri Lanka.
To increase efficiency, Mr. Kanda established a first-of-its-kind agreement with the World Bank Group, allowing both institutions to rely on each other’s procurement and social systems for cofinanced sovereign projects. This move, alongside a new Strategic Human Resource Framework, ensures the bank remains agile and “fit for purpose.”
ADB Presidents are nominated by regional members and elected by the Board of Governors. Mr. Kanda originally joined the bank to serve the remaining term of his predecessor, Mr. Masatsugu Asakawa. A successful reelection would grant him a full five-year term to oversee the bank’s evolving strategy and support the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN 2026 Chairship.
