HONOLULU, Sept. 25 -- The University of Hawaii issued the following news release:
Hawai'i's economy has slowed this year under the weight of war-driven oil prices and an unusually active storm season, including two hurricanes within three weeks, according to the University of Hawai'i Economic Research Organization's (UHERO) quarter 3 forecast for 2026, released September 25.
Real GDP growth will fall to about half a percent in 2026, from more than 3% last year, and payroll employment will edge lower. UHERO expects gradual relief as energy prices ease and storm recovery proceeds, with growth and hiring firming in 2027 and 2028. An aging, shrinking population will keep job gains modest, and continued AI investment offers upside potential fo...