The World Economic Forum’s September 2026 Chief Economists’ Outlook, based on an August 2026 survey, places India at the top of the global growth outlook. The survey covers expectations for growth, inflation, household incomes, and business conditions across major regions.
Chief Economists’ Outlook
The Chief Economists’ Outlook is a periodic survey published by the World Economic Forum. It records the views of chief economists on macroeconomic trends, including growth, inflation, labour markets, and regional performance.
India’s Growth Expectations
In the September 2026 survey, 98% of chief economists expected moderate or stronger growth in India over the next 12 months. About 74% expected strong or very strong growth, compared with 52% in the May 2026 survey. The World Economic Forum raised India’s GDP growth forecast for fiscal 2026-27 to 6.7% in August 2026.
Regional Comparison and Business Climate
The survey placed China in a weaker position, with about one in three economists expecting weak growth. Europe remained the weakest region in the survey. India was one of only two regions, along with Southeast Asia, where a majority of economists expected inflation-adjusted household incomes to rise over the next year. India’s ranking for a favourable business environment for multinational companies moved from second to fourth place in the September 2026 survey.
Important Facts for Exams
- The World Economic Forum is an international organisation based in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Chief economists’ surveys are used to assess expectations on GDP growth, inflation, and employment.
- Fiscal year 2026-27 in India runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.
- Domestic demand refers to spending by households, firms, and the government within an economy.
Growth Drivers and Risks
Higher energy prices remain a factor affecting India’s growth prospects. Geopolitical conflicts are listed as a major source of global uncertainty in the survey.
