In its outlook published on 23 September 2026, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) expects growth of 5.0% in 2026 for the developing economies of Asia and the Pacific, then 5.1% in 2027. That is below the 5.5% recorded in 2025, but 0.1 percentage point above its July projection.
Strong investment, government stimulus and technology exports driven by the artificial intelligence investment cycle are supporting activity. ADB cites two main risks: escalating conflict, which could keep energy prices elevated and volatile, and a very strong El Niño, forecast to persist through the first quarter of 2027. South Asia remains the fastest-growing subregion (6.4%), ahead of Southeast Asia (4.7%).
Source: Asian Development Bank — Asian Development Outlook, September 2026
Key figures
| Indicator | Value | Reference period |
|---|---|---|
| Growth in developing Asia and the Pacific | 5.0% | 2026 forecast |
| Growth recorded | 5.5% | 2025 |
| Expected growth | 5.1% | 2027 forecast |
| Regional inflation | 4.2% | 2026 forecast (3% in 2025) |
| South Asia | 6.4% | 2026 growth forecast |
Outlook, limits and risks
Source
- Asian Development Bank — Asian Development Outlook, September 2026 — published on 23 Sept 2026
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Original summary written from the sources cited. It is neither investment advice nor an offer. Figures and forecasts belong to their authors and may be revised.
