World Bank sees improved MENAAP growth

The World Bank projected the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MENAAP) region to record growth of 2.8 per cent in 2025 and 3.3 per cent in 2026, supported by higher non-oil activity in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies and stronger private spending, investment, agriculture, and tourism in oil-importing countries.

In its latest report, the World Bank warned that conflicts, global uncertainty, and trade policy shifts remain key risks, while oil-exporting developing countries may face slower growth due to reduced production and unrest.

The report emphasised that greater inclusion of women in the labour force could deliver major economic gains, noting that only one in five women in the region currently work despite strong educational achievements.

World Bank Vice President Ousmane Dione called for bold action to remove all barriers to women’s participation, while Chief Economist Roberta Gatti said lifting these constraints could raise GDP per capita by up to 30 per cent in economies such as Egypt, Jordan, and Pakistan.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: Y.Yasser