Global management consultancy Kearney has today released its new Global Cities Framework, which offers a comprehensive road map to enhance a city’s global competitiveness through eight areas of excellence.
Conceptualized to steer cities toward global readiness, the framework was built upon the metrics of Kearney’s yearly Global Cities Index (GCI), a ranking of the world's most internationally connected and influential cities that Kearney has been conducting since 2008. Last year, Asia Pacific performed strongly on the index, with five cities, including Tokyo, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, dominating the top 10 spots.
The Global Cities Framework proposes eight imperatives that fall under three sections to help transform cities into leading global cities. These include the vision and mission that set a trajectory for the overall global city strategy; the pillars, which serve as drivers that propel a city into becoming a global leader; and enablers, which are prerequisites for the rest of the imperatives to run smoothly.
Shigeru Sekinada, region chair of Asia Pacific, said, “As Asia Pacific cities become more diverse, they must strengthen global competitiveness and amplify their international influence. Strategic decisions that align with their long-term priorities are essential in helping cities shape resilient urban environments that attract investments and improve quality of life. This is why Kearney has created the Global Cities Framework to empower cities to translate ambition into action. Divided into three sections, this structured approach ensures that resources get allocated efficiently, addressing the most pressing needs while fostering long-term development and competitiveness.”
Asia Pacific cities lead the way in urban excellence
Pivotal initiatives from leading APAC cities have been spotlighted across the eight imperatives of Kearney’s Global Cities Framework, showcasing their forward-looking ambitions. Key insights include:
Business and economy. Southeast Asia’s Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) in Johor, which in May 2024 handled more than 1 million TEUs in a single month, has been cited as an example for coastal development. Additionally, APAC cities such as Singapore and Hong Kong have ranked among the top for business climate.
Society and workforce. Strengthening workforce competitiveness has been achieved through initiatives such as Singapore’s Tech.Pass and Fukuoka’s Startup Visa program, part of Japan’s National Strategic Special Zone. Addressing lifestyle-related diseases is also vital to advancing public health, with successful global models including Singapore’s Healthy Living Master Plan and Tokyo’s municipal health centers.
Tourism and branding. A city can enhance the quality and availability of attractions by elevating its appeal as a leisure tourism destination. For instance, Bangkok is harnessing the nighttime economy by extending business hours, enhancing safety measures, and more. Bangkok’s government-backed Michelin Guide Thailand has also boosted tourism and fine dining investment.
Environment and sustainability. Densely populated cities facing environmental challenges can draw valuable lessons from Tokyo, which has successfully mitigated floods and landslides caused by rapid urbanization and heavy rainfall through innovative infrastructure.
Infrastructure and mobility. A global city requires robust digital infrastructure to meet growing tech demands, and Malaysia provides a strong model with its Digital Nasional Berhad, launched in 2021 to establish a nationwide single wholesale network.
R&D and innovation. Japan exemplifies a structured and high-impact approach to institutional R&D funding through agencies such as the Japan Science and Technology Agency. Meanwhile, Thailand offers strong private-sector incentives, including tax holidays of up to 13 years, accelerated depreciation, and more.
Governance, institutions, and financing. Going beyond state budget for financing needs and establishing specialized units aligned with thematic priorities can accelerate progress in key areas. A climate resilience office, modeled after Tokyo, Singapore, or London, could champion sustainability initiatives.
Source: kearney.com