The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has revised its global economic growth forecast for 2024 upwards to 2. 9%, reflecting continued resilience in major economies despite ongoing challenges. This marks an increase from the previous projection of 2. 8%, suggesting a slightly more optimistic outlook for the year.
OPEC's monthly report highlights that growth momentum in major economies like the United States, China, and the Eurozone has remained robust in the first half of 2024. This trend is expected to persist in the coming months, contributing to the upwardly revised projection. The report acknowledges potential headwinds, including geopolitical tensions and persistent inflation, but suggests their impact might be mitigated.
The upward revision places OPEC's forecast slightly above the recent prediction by the World Bank, which projected global economic growth to hold steady at 2. 6% in 2024. This difference underscores the evolving nature of global economic prospects, with OPEC's focus on oil markets potentially providing them with unique insights into economic activity.
The report also emphasizes OPEC's belief that global oil demand will continue to rise in 2024 and 2025. The organization forecasts an increase of 2. 25 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2024 and 1. 85 million bpd in 2025, aligning with their previous projections. This anticipated growth is likely fueled by the ongoing post-pandemic recovery and increasing industrial activity in certain regions.
Looking ahead, OPEC's report highlights the importance of monitoring key factors that could influence economic growth. These include the trajectory of global inflation, geopolitical developments that could disrupt supply chains, and the effectiveness of central bank policies in managing interest rates. The organization acknowledges that these factors are interconnected and could significantly impact the global economic landscape.
By revising its growth forecast upwards, OPEC acknowledges the positive momentum in the global economy. However, the report also underscores the need for continued vigilance in light of lingering uncertainties. As the year progresses, OPEC's insights and analysis will be closely watched by industry leaders and policymakers seeking to navigate the ever-evolving global economic climate.