Page 22 - The South China Business Journal

D.C. TODAY

WHAT TO EXPECT

FROM THE ECONOMY

IN 2026

By Curtis Dubay, Chief Economist, U.S Chamber of Commerce

strong economy means more The U.S. economy
A opportunities for growth in will start on solid
communities across the country. It
means higher paychecks and more footing in 2026. The
chances for Americans to reach their right set of policies
American dream. could support faster,
The U.S. Chamber has a bold plan sustained growth.
for achieving a sustained level of at
least 3% real economic growth to help our nation and American
families prosper.

Key Points:
? Looking backward: At the end of 2025, the U.S. economy
will have grown around 2% over the last 12 months, which is
remarkable given turbulence throughout the year.

? Looking forward: In 2026, the U.S. Chamber predicts the
economy will grow at least 2% -- which is the average of Blue
Chip forecasters.

? The catch: If we establish the right set of policies, the economy
could grow at 3% or above.

? Bottom line: That higher level of growth is attainable, but
policymakers need to act to achieve it.

Why 3% Growth Matters
To improve the lives of all Americans, the U.S. must focus on
growing the economy. In 2024, the Chamber launched the Growth
and Opportunity Imperative, calling on elected officials to support
policies that would achieve at least 3% annual real economic
growth over the next decade.
When the economy is growing at 3%, someone who is born today
will see America¡¯s economy double in size by the time they are in
their early 20s. At 2% growth, it will take until they are in their mid-
30s for the economy to double. Plainly put, growing the economy
grows everyone¡¯s slice of the pie and creates more prosperity
across the board.

Unfortunately, several tailwinds and headwinds impact our ability
to reach that target.

19 AMCHAM SOUTH CHINA