Europe’s Economic Outlook 2026
It was a full house at the Europe Committee meeting on 4 March, which was held for the first time at the Chamber’s newly renovated office.
Increasing competition, high energy costs, and political uncertainty have negatively impacted European countries' economies. As a result, economic growth for 2026 is forecast to be modest, according to Apolline Greiveldinger, Economist for Asia, Coface. She expects business insolvencies in Europe to stabilize in 2026, but still remain above pre-pandemic levels.
Junyu T., Regional Economist for North Asia, Coface, also speaking at the meeting, highlighted some of the opportunities that Hong Kong can offer to European businesses. He touched on its advantages as a logistics hub, especially for re-exports, Hong Kong's broad offering of financial products, professional services, governance and risk management. Now that local consumption is recovering and more high-spending visitors are coming to the city, he said it can be a lucrative retail centre for luxury goods.
Additionally, Committee member Marcel Schmidt, Managing Director of DACHSER Hong Kong Ltd, briefed members how this freight forwarder evolved into a leading logistics company and its efforts to enhance cyber security and achieve emission-free delivery.
2026/03/04