HANOI, May 18 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's gross domestic product (GDP) is forecast to drop to 6.8 percent in 2026, before rising to 7.1 percent in 2027, local media VnEconomy reported on Monday, citing a report released by the World Bank.

The country's economic outlook for this year is projected to be affected by growing geopolitical pressures, particularly the Middle East conflict, which could trigger volatility in global energy prices and weigh on global trade and the domestic economy, according to the report.

The World Bank recommended that Vietnam prioritize policies that effectively address short-term uncertainties and lay a solid foundation for a more sustainable long-term growth model, the report noted.

Vietnam targets an economic growth rate of at least 10 percent for 2026. ■