IELTS Cambridge Book 18. Test 1. The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040.

 The graph below gives information about the percentage of the population in four Asian countries living in cities from 1970 to 2020, with predictions for 2030 and 2040.

The given line chart provides a comprehensive depiction of the population trends in relation to urban residency in four Asian countries, spanning from 1970 to projected figures up to 2040. Overall, it is evident that all nations will witness a surge in urban living, with Malaysia and the Philippines displaying the most notable increases. By the end of the period, Malaysia is poised to have the highest proportion of its population residing in cities.

In 1970, the Philippines and Malaysia exhibited nearly equal percentages of urban residents, standing at 31% and 30% respectively. A comparable scenario was observed in Thailand and Indonesia, with figures of 19% and 12% respectively. Over the subsequent two decades, Malaysia experienced fluctuations, surpassing the Philippines around the 40% mark before embarking on a remarkable upward trajectory in 1990. This upward trend is expected to persist, culminating in a plateau of just over 80% urban population by 2040. Conversely, the Philippines witnessed a moderate decline post-1980, although projections indicate a resurgence leading to a final urban population figure exceeding 50% by 2040.

The statistics for urban residency in Indonesia have exhibited substantial growth, surpassing that of Thailand in 2000 (28%) and the Philippines in 2010 (42%). This pattern is anticipated to persist, positioning Indonesia as the nation with the second-highest urban population, reaching 55%. Lastly, Thailand has experienced a gradual and consistent increase, currently standing at approximately 30%, with a more rapid ascent projected to exceed 40% within the next 17 years.