Chan Sees Strongest Five-Year Growth, May Revise Forecast Higher
Crhk · 2 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
Financial Secretary Paul Chan (陳茂波) expressed optimism on Saturday that 2026 could mark Hong Kong's strongest annual economic growth in five years, citing strong export performance and investment momentum carrying through the third quarter. The government, which previously upgraded its full-year growth forecast to 3.5-4.5 percent, indicated it may revise the projection upward once again. Speaking on a radio programme, Chan acknowledged external risks including persistently high interest rates and geopolitical tensions while also previewing two major upcoming financial events expected to draw tens of thousands of participants.
Key Points
- Hong Kong's first-half economic growth reached 5.1 percent, with exports serving as the primary driver
- Third-quarter export figures remain very strong, and investment growth momentum from the first half has continued into Q3
- The government raised its full-year growth forecast to 3.5-4.5 percent and may increase it further after the economic adviser provides detailed analysis
- FinTech Week, scheduled for next week, is expected to attract 40,000 participants both in-person and online
- The Global Financial Leaders Investment Summit will welcome 120 chairmen and chief executives from international financial institutions
- Regarding the 2027 Budget, Chan said the government will do its best for citizens but must manage substantial infrastructure spending prudently
- External risks persist: geopolitical tensions and ongoing Middle East conflict could pressure oil prices and trigger inflation, while interest rates are expected to remain elevated throughout 2027
Why It Matters
This assessment signals Hong Kong's gradual economic recovery after years of pandemic-related challenges, with the upcoming financial summits serving as critical opportunities to reinforce international investors' confidence in the city's stability and growth potential amid a complex global environment .
This assessment signals Hong Kong's gradual economic recovery after years of pandemic-related challenges, with the upcoming financial summits serving as critical opportunities to reinforce international investors' confidence in the city's stability and growth potential amid a complex global environment .