AI boom driving Singapore economy’s ‘remarkable resilience’ amid global tensions: Analyst

Singapore’s economy grew faster than expected in the first quarter of 2026, with gross domestic product (GDP) expanding 6 per cent year-on-year as strong artificial intelligence-related demand boosted the manufacturing sector. Speaking to CNA’s Asia First, ANZ Head of Asia Research Khoon Goh said the economy is showing “remarkable resilience” despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with strong electronics exports and manufacturing activity pointing to continued momentum in Q2. However, he warned that a slowdown in global AI spending remains a key risk, while higher oil prices could push inflation higher in the coming months.

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