Unveiling the Current Extent of the Gig Economy Engagement in Developing Asian Countries

Abstract

Background: The gig economy, driven by technological advancements, has shifted the labour market from traditional jobs to mainstream freelance and contract work via online platforms. Statistical evidence highlights the importance of examining gig economy engagement in developing Asian countries, which are key contributors to global platforms.

Objective: This study sought to systematically analyse the rise of gig economy engagement in developing Asian countries and its implications for the future of work while providing insights for platform users.

Methodology: This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, drawing on past research and numerous reliable resources from 1999 to 2024.

Results: Findings reveal a growing research focus on the gig economy, particularly since 2016, with a significant increase in publications from 2019 to 2024. This highlights gaps in understanding gig workers' well-being, including stress, quality of life, and gender-specific barriers.

Conclusion: Scholars must pay adequate attention to the expanding contributions of the gig economy, considering its potential to reshape workforce dynamics and drive economic innovation.

Unique contribution: This study presents a graphical representation that illustrates the evolution of existing scholarly contributions, highlighting key gaps that require further exploration, and emphasises the vital importance of investigating this area.

Key Recommendation: Policymakers need to focus on adopting a fair work framework while addressing the underexplored areas of gig workers' experiences and challenges to foster equitable and sustainable growth of the gig economy in developing Asian countries.