World Economic Forum projects growth rates for Southeast Asian economies in 2026
What happened
The World Economic Forum projected that Malaysia's economy will grow 4.7 per cent in 2026, supported by domestic demand, investment, and technology-related exports. The outlook for Southeast Asia remains broadly resilient, with 73 per cent of chief economists expecting stronger or very strong growth over the next 12 months. Country-specific forecasts include 7.5 per cent for Vietnam and 1.9 per cent for Thailand in 2026.
From thestar.com.my
Why it matters
The forecasts indicate that manufacturing, exports, investment, and steady domestic demand continue to support growth across developing Southeast Asia. Furthermore, inflation expectations have improved, with developing Southeast Asia projected to see 3.9 per cent inflation.
From thestar.com.my
Who's involved
- Southeast AsiaThe region whose growth outlook was analyzed by the World Economic Forum.
- MalaysiaThe country projected to grow 4.7 per cent in 2026.
- VietnamThe country projected to achieve 7.5 per cent growth in 2026.
- ThailandThe country projected to grow 1.9 per cent in 2026.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- MalaysiaSpeculative
Malaysia might see changes in investment and export revenue based on the 4.7 per cent growth projection.
- ThailandSpeculative
Thailand might face adjusted market expectations for investment due to the 1.9 per cent growth projection.
- VietnamSpeculative
Vietnam could attract increased foreign investment due to the projected strong growth of 7.5 per cent.
- Southeast AsiaSpeculative
The broader Southeast Asia market could see shifts in capital flows based on the resilient regional growth outlook.
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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Southeast Asia
south-eastern region of Asia
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Vietnam
country in Southeast Asia
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Thailand
country in Southeast Asia
Related events
- Vietnam and Southeast Asia are aiming to become a key regional hub, leveraging their strategic locations and growing economies.
- TCP has been present in Vietnam for over three decades, while Thailand remains Vietnam's largest trading partner and a major foreign investor.
- Vietnam and China are vying for influence in Cambodia and Laos, with Vietnam also advocating for ASEAN centrality.
- Thailand is a country located within the Southeast Asia region.
- ASEAN Future Forum is underway, with the host country being Vietnam, featuring key discussions with ASEAN members.