ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates how East Asia’s shift towards services shapes progress on Sustainable Development Goal 8: decent work for all. Using comparative evidence across the region, it traces labor-market outcomes – employment quality, informality, youth exclusion, gender gaps, safety, labor rights, and tourism exposure. The move from manufacturing creates opportunities but also entrenches vulnerabilities. Productivity effects are heterogeneous: modern, tradable services (ICT, finance, business services) can rival manufacturing, while traditional services lag. Digitalization, platforms, and remote work widen access yet often sidestep protections. The chapter argues for skills development, formalization, services trade rules, and stronger social protection to ensure inclusive service-led growth.
