Asia's economic divide forecast to widen in 2026

ADB has forecast 4.4 percent growth for ASEAN, yet it says the outlook for individual members varies depending on global and domestic factors.

Sineenat Sermcheep, director of Chulalongkorn University's ASEAN Studies Center, suggested that the bloc address supply chain vulnerabilities and greater regional integration, adding that strategic multialignment, exploring new markets, and enhancing competitiveness will be crucial for the region's sustainable growth.

Yang Wanli in Bangkok and Yang Han in Hong Kong contributed to this story.