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Hong Kong to lift 2026 GDP forecast after stronger first-half growth
The city’s GDP is seen expanding between 2.5% and 3.5% in 2026, after first-half growth of 5.1% year on year, with officials pointing to AI exports and tourism.
Hong Kong authorities plan to raise their full-year economic growth forecast after stronger-than-expected performance in the first half of 2026, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said. Chan added that the Census and Statistics Department would update the GDP outlook later this month following first-half expansion of 5.1% year on year.
The current outlook projects Hong Kong’s economy to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% in 2026 from 2025. Chan said exports should continue to benefit in the second half from strong global demand for artificial intelligence products, while financial and business services and a rise in tourist arrivals are expected to support services exports, consumption, and investment sentiment.
Chan also flagged risks to the outlook, citing geopolitical developments and US dollar interest rates, among other uncertainties. He said the government would focus on growing the economy while safeguarding economic and financial security.