Nearly 90% of Chief Economists Predict Global Economic Slowdown in Next 12 Months, Says WEF Report

According to the World Economic Forum's Chief Economists Outlook report released on May 28, nearly 90% of surveyed chief economists forecast that global economic growth will slow over the next 12 months, with Middle East conflict and the Strait of Hormuz shipping disruption cited as major concerns. The economists assess that the shipping bottleneck's destructive impact significantly exceeds last year's tariff disruptions; prolonged disruptions through the second half of 2026 could amplify supply chain, energy, and food cost pressures globally.

94% of respondents predict global inflation will rise within one year. The report expects the Middle East and North Africa to face the most severe economic impact, while sub-Saharan Africa faces surging inflation expectations and Europe confronts rising stagflation risks.