Buoyant investment, particularly in construction, and robust consumption propelled growth to 7.6% in the first half, a stronger outcome than anticipated in the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2013 in April. Spending related to elections in May contributed to growth. Fixed investment growth accelerated to 12.7%, outpacing a 5.3% rise in private consumption. The country achieved its first investment-grade credit ratings this year and a higher ranking in the global competitiveness survey.