The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) headquarters are in Manila in the Philippines. There are currently 65 member countries in the ADB, 47 of which are in Asia and the Pacific region.
In 2005 the ADB lent US$5.8 billion to its developing member countries. Another $198.8 million was used to finance technical assistance grants. Projects are primarily aimed at alleviating poverty and improving the plight of the poor.
The Philippines is the ADB’s 11th largest shareholder and its eighth largest borrower with loans worth $180 million in 2005.
In 2005 New Zealand consulting firms and individuals were awarded $6.1 million worth of ADB technical assistance contracts. Another $4 million was awarded for consultancy components of loan projects. New Zealand contractors won tenders for approximately $10.9 million worth of ADB-financed construction projects.
New Zealand consultants compete with many well-known international consulting companies from other member countries. Since the ADB is located in Manila, many consulting companies have established a presence in the Philippines either by associating with local consulting organisations or setting up their own marketing offices in Manila.
New Zealand’s major competitors are consultancy firms from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada.