Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro gestures as he speaks during a ceremony to swear in new community-based organisations, as U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration ramps up pressure on Maduro’s government, in Caracas, Venezuela, December 1, 2025. REUTERS/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria

MEXICO CITY, Dec 9 - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Tuesday the country's economy will grow by 9% by the end of 2025, and will likely grow by 7% in 2026.

"This year we will reach 18 consecutive [quarters] of growth. A growth rate of 9% is projected for 2025, and the Central Bank is already projecting 7% growth for 2026," Maduro said.

Maduro, speaking during a televised forum with business leaders in the capital Caracas, did not provide further details.

(Reporting by Mayela Armas, Writing by Iñigo Alexander; Editing by Christian Plumb)