The 2026 Economic Policy Panel Report found that the North East continues to perform relatively well in comparison to the rest of the country, though its fortunes remain closely tied to the energy sector. The report warns that this dependency presents a growing risk, and that diversification is increasingly necessary to strengthen the region’s long-term economic resilience.

Among the areas highlighted for ongoing investment are tourism infrastructure, digital connectivity, hospitality, science facilities, and energy transition projects – all of which form part of the broader Regional Economic Strategy.

The Aberdeen Economic Policy Panel was started in 2017 to provide independent review of the performance of the North East economy. The Panel has been made up of professionals from industry, academia, and the public sector to assess the current economic position of the region, and the longer-term priorities that influence performance.

The report can be accessed here.