Hong Kong authorities announced plans to raise the city’s full-year economic growth forecast after the economy expanded by 5.1% year on year in the first half of 2026. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said in a weekly blog post on Sunday, August 2, 2026, that the Census and Statistics Department would update its gross domestic product (GDP) forecast later this month.

Currently, Hong Kong’s economy is projected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% for the full year compared to 2025. Chan highlighted that exports would benefit from strong global demand for artificial intelligence products in the second half of the year. Additionally, sustained overseas demand for Hong Kong’s financial and business services, along with increased tourist arrivals, are expected to boost services exports, local consumption, and investment sentiment.

Despite the optimistic outlook, Chan cautioned that geopolitical developments, US dollar interest rates, and other uncertainties could impact the economic forecast. He emphasized vigilance and commitment to growing the economy while safeguarding economic and financial security.

Chan also pledged to promote the global adoption of the yuan following the upcoming debut of offshore Chinese government bond futures on the local stock exchange.

Sources

South China Morning Post World (Eric Jiang, August 2, 2026)