East Asia and Pacific Economic Update, October 2026
Riding the AI Wave
In East Asia and Pacific, a global surge in AI-related activity is lifting growth in countries that participate in AI supply chains, while high energy costs are weighing on growth elsewhere, particularly in Pacific Island economies. Growth in the region is slowing, but considerably less than anticipated previously and is forecast to remain robust. The influence of AI is unmistakable in the region’s industrial sector, but it is less apparent in the rest of the economy. Like in many other emerging markets and developing economies, AI use in East Asia and Pacific is less prevalent than in advanced economies. Nevertheless, AI adoption is shaping skills demand as firms’ requirements for AI-related skills are often paired with complementary analytical and soft skills. Download “Riding the AI Wave” to learn more.
OCTOBER 09, 2026 – WORLD BANK GROUP
