KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 (Bernama) -- The ASEAN+3 economy is expected to grow 4.0 per cent in 2026, according to the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO).
The projection marks a moderation from an estimated 4.3 per cent growth in 2025.
AMRO said inflation was estimated at 0.9 per cent in 2025 and projected at 1.2 per cent in 2026, both below the region’s long-run average.
It said the growth updates reflect upward revisions of 0.2 percentage points for both years compared with the October 2025 ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook update.
“The region’s solid performance in 2025 was underpinned by less severe tariff outcomes than initially expected, resilient technology export growth, strong investment in ASEAN, and accommodative macroeconomic policies,” it said in a statement today.
AMRO chief economist Dong He said the region has demonstrated notable resilience, navigating global uncertainties more effectively than anticipated.
“Strong technology demand and robust foreign direct investment inflows into emerging sectors, including advanced electronics, electric vehicles, and digital services, have helped cushion growth despite ongoing tariff headwinds,” he said.
Dong He added that maintaining policy readiness to respond to near-term shocks is critical.
“Over the longer term, diversifying growth drivers and deepening regional economic integration will be essential to strengthen the region's resilience,” he said.
Meanwhile, AMRO said that although risks are more balanced, uncertainty remains elevated.
“Key concerns include unpredictable United States trade policy, the potential extension of protectionist measures, and a sharp slowdown in technology demand that could weigh on regional exports given the sector’s extensive regional linkages,” it said.
According to AMRO, other downside risks include slower growth in major economies and heightened financial market volatility.
The ASEAN+3 grouping comprises the 10 ASEAN member states plus China, Japan and South Korea.
-- BERNAMA
