Sustainability, not economic growth, to be top priority, say experts

Sustainability will continue to be the top priority amid growing concerns about global economic growth, experts said on Monday at the Asian Financial Forum (AFF).

The current rhetoric and mentality may usher in a new era of protectionism and populism, while rising geopolitical tensions, volatile financial markets and a deteriorating economic outlook makes it tough to post sustainable economic growth, said Vincent Lo Hong-shui, chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

Jin Liqun, president and chairman of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), said that it was an opportune time to redefine the concept of growth.