New Delhi, Dec 15 || India is projected to lead major Asia-Pacific economies in 2026 with the GDP growth of 6.6 per cent and inflation at 4.2 per cent, according to a report released on Monday.
This growth will be supported by strong domestic demand, aided by monetary easing, tax reforms, GST rationalisation and lower global commodity prices, said the annual economic outlook for 2026 by the Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI).
“Favourable demographics, rapid digitisation, and technological advancements continue to position India among the fastest-growing major economies, driving expansion in global capability centres and Tier 2–3 cities,” the report mentioned.
Tourism is emerging as a key growth lever — boosting external stability and supporting local businesses — with destinations such as Goa, Rishikesh, and Amritsar attracting experiential and spiritual travellers, it added.
Meanwhile, accelerating AI adoption, reflected in an AI Enthusiasm Index score of 8, underscores India’s readiness to harness the next wave of productivity gains and reinforces its role as a key driver of Asia-Pacific’s economic outlook.