Hanoi: The ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) forecasts the ASEAN+3 region's economic growth to expand by 3.8% in 2025 and 3.6% in 2026.
According to Lao News Agency, these figures, representing ASEAN member states, China, the Republic of Korea (RoK), and Japan, were released in the ASEAN+3 Regional Economic Outlook (AREO)'s quarterly update. The growth forecasts represent a downward revision from AMRO's April projections of 4.2% in 2025 and 4.1% in 2026, an adjustment attributed to heightened global uncertainties and evolving US tariff measures.
AMRO Chief Economist Dong He commented on the resilience of the ASEAN+3 region amidst global trade turbulence, noting that regional policymakers have acted early to mitigate the impact of trade shocks. He emphasized that there remains policy space for further support if necessary.
According to AMRO, inflation in the region continues to moderate, despite a temporary rise in oil prices due to Middle East tensions. The financial markets have shown resilience, with regional currencies generally appreciating against the US dollar amid growing market concerns over US policy uncertainty.
However, the economic outlook for ASEAN+3 is overshadowed by significant uncertainties, particularly escalating US tariffs, which pose a substantial risk. Dong He highlighted the urgency and necessity of deeper regional integration in response to global fragmentation. He advocated for strengthening regional cooperation, maintaining openness, and adhering to rules-based multilateralism to build resilience against external shocks and foster new growth opportunities.