Economic outlook for ASEAN-6 countries during 2026 remains positive: QNB

Doha: Qatar National Bank (QNB) discussed the key factors that will support economic growth in the ASEAN 6 economies during 2026 and contribute to a p...

Doha: Qatar National Bank (QNB) discussed the key factors that will support economic growth in the ASEAN-6 economies during 2026 and contribute to a positive growth outlook, including the stabilization of the global trade environment and the decline in the severity of risks associated with trade protectionism, along with the easing of monetary conditions in advanced economies as well as within the ASEAN-6 countries.

In recent decades, Southeast Asia has been the most dynamic region in the world, showcasing the brightest economic growth performance, QNB added in its weekly economic commentary.

Within this region, the six largest countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN-6), which includes Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, have been among the fastest growing economies, with Singapore already reaching the status of an advanced economy.

Trade is a major pillar of the economic growth model for the ASEAN-6 countries, and significant disruptions in international commerce can have a large impact on their performance.

Trade and growth forecasts initially deteriorated sharply on fears of the impact of supply-chain disruptions, rocketing uncertainty, and potentially escalating trade wars. But despite a still-uncertain environment, the growth outlook for the ASEAN-6 group has been stable, with real GDP growth rates in 2026 expected to remain overall strong, similar to those of 2025.