Asia Regional Integration Center

The economy reversed its 1.0% contraction in fiscal year 2020 (FY2020, ended 30 June), growing by 5.6% in FY2021. Industrial output grew by 7.8%, buoyed by fiscal incentives. Manufacturing was up by 10.5%, construction by 5.3%, and services rebounded by 5.7%, after pandemic-related restrictions were lifted. On the demand side, private consumption led the recovery, supported by government cash transfers and a record increase in remittances, along with an expansionary monetary policy. GDP growth, however, is projected to moderate to 4.0% in FY2022 due to slower domestic demand from monetary tightening, restrictions on automobile financing, and additional fiscal consolidation measures enacted in January 2022. Growth is expected to accelerate to 4.5% in FY2023 due to increased private consumption and investment. Greater macroeconomic stability is also expected to boost household and business confidence.