Economists raised their forecast for Hong Kong's economic growth in 2026, citing stronger financial activity and support from the government's latest budget, according to a Bloomberg survey.

The median estimate sees gross domestic product expanding 2.9% this year, up from 2.5% in a survey conducted a quarter earlier, Bloomberg reported. The median projection for 2027 remained unchanged at 2.5%, the report said.

Economists also lifted quarterly growth forecasts for this year, with all estimates at or above 2.5%, the survey conducted March 2-5 showed, according to the report.

Increased government bond issuance to fund infrastructure projects outlined in the Feb. 25 budget could support medium-term growth, while easing financial conditions may further bolster activity, it added.

The unemployment rate is projected at 3.6% this year, unchanged from the previous survey, Bloomberg said.

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