Japan Consumer Mood Falls to 1-Year Low

Japan's consumer confidence index declined to 32.2 in April 2026 from 33.3 in March, and below forecasts of 33.1. It was the lowest figure since April 2025, with almost all components posting declines, including overall livelihood (28.2 vs 29.7 in March), employment outlook (37.4 vs 37.6), and willingness to purchase durable goods (23.2 vs 26.0), while income growth remained steady (at 39.8).

Japan’s consumer confidence index dropped to 33.3 in March 2026 from a downwardly revised 39.7 in the previous month, which was the highest figure since April 2019, below market forecasts of 38 and marking the lowest figure since May 2025. All components posted falls, including overall livelihood (29.7 vs 39.7 in February), income growth (39.8 vs 42.5), employment outlook (37.6 vs 44.0), and the willingness to purchase durable goods (26.0 vs 33.9).

Japan’s consumer confidence index rose to 40.0 in February 2026 from 37.9 in the previous month, beating market forecasts of 38.2 and marking the highest figure since April 2019. All components posted gains, including overall livelihood (39.7 vs 36.8 in January), income growth (42.5 vs 42.0), employment outlook (44.0 vs 42.4), and the willingness to purchase durable goods (33.9 vs 30.4).