Singapore’s electronics exports surged 132% in August from a year earlier, prompting an upgrade to its 2026 growth forecast of 4.5%-5.5%. (EPA Images pic)

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s top diplomat touted what he called “a moment of great potential” for Southeast Asia, as economies expand rapidly on surging technology demand even as much of the world faces growing uncertainties.

Speaking during a conference on Wednesday, minister for foreign affairs Vivian Balakrishnan said semiconductors and AI were major drivers helping the region’s economies outperform expectations. He noted that the city-state expanded 6.1% in the first half of the year, with Taiwan overtaking China to become its biggest trading partner.