Key facts
- Taiwan's 2026 GDP growth projection is raised to 11.05%.
- Taiwan's previous 2026 GDP growth projection was 9.64%.
- Malaysia's economy grew 6.0% in the second quarter.
- Malaysia's central bank projects 4%-5% growth for the full year.
- Hong Kong's 2026 economic forecast is revised upward.
- Hong Kong experienced its strongest first half in nearly five years.
- Taiwan's parliament approved three referendums.
- One referendum in Taiwan concerns caning sex criminals and fraud convicts.
- Another referendum in Taiwan supports nuclear power.
- Taiwan's referendums are likely to be held on November 28.
- Taiwan's referendums may coincide with local elections.
Taiwan's economy is now projected to expand by 11.05% in 2026, an upward revision from the previous estimate of 9.64%. This projection, released by the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, stands as the highest among domestic and foreign institutions. In a separate economic development, Malaysia's economy experienced accelerated growth, reaching 6.0% in the second quarter. This performance surpassed expectations, fueled by robust exports and sustained domestic demand, with significant contributions from AI investment and the semiconductor sector. The Malaysian central bank anticipates a full-year growth rate between 4% and 5% for the country.
Hong Kong has also revised its economic forecast for 2026 upward. This adjustment reflects the region's strongest first-half performance in nearly five years, indicating a positive trajectory for the city's economic recovery and growth. These economic outlooks suggest a generally optimistic trend across several Asian economies.
In a distinct development, Taiwan's parliament has approved the holding of three referendums. One of these referendums concerns the implementation of caning for individuals convicted of sex crimes and fraud. Another proposed referendum aims to garner support for nuclear power. These referendums are anticipated to take place on November 28, potentially aligning with local elections scheduled for the same day.