Malaysian economic outlook, 1997-98

Abstract

The world economy is estimated to grow by 3.8 per cent in 1996, gaining momentum to a growth of 4.1 per cent in 1997 as the prospects for growth in Europe and Japan improve. World trade is also expected to grow, albeit slower, at around 7 per cent during 1996-97 compared to 8.9 per cent in 1995. For the US economy, it is expected to register a moderate but stable growth of 2.4 per cent for 1996 followed by 2.3 per cent in 1997. Overall, Malaysia is expected to face a stable and healthy external economic environment.