00:00The United Nations has lowered its global growth forecast, warning that renewed conflict in the
00:05Middle East is adding to inflation pressures and deepening uncertainty across the world economy.
00:11In a media update, the UN now projects global growth of 2.5% in 2026, down from an estimated
00:183% in 2025. It says Western Asia is expected to be the hardest hit region,
00:28with growth slowing sharply to 1.4% as conflict disrupts infrastructure, trade and tourism across
00:35multiple countries. The United States is expected to remain relatively resilient, with growth projected
00:42at 2% in 2026. Strong household spending and continued investment in technology were expected
00:49to provide support for the economy. Meanwhile, China's growth is expected to slow modestly to 4.6%
00:56from 5%. The UN cited policy support measures and diversified energy supplies as key buffers
01:04against wider global shocks.
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