S\\\'pore economy \\\'expands 3.5pc in first half\\\'

SINGAPORE, Aug 9 (AFP): Singapore's trade-sensitive economy grew 3.5 per cent in the first half and was on track for 2.5-3.5 per cent expansion this year, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Friday.

"Our economy grew 3.5 per cent in the first half of 2014, and is forecast to grow 2.5-3.5 per cent for the year," he said in a message on the eve of National Day.

The forecast is within previous official estimates of 2.0-4.0 per cent growth this year even as the city-state grapples with increasing uncertainties around the world.