Thailand Consumer Morale Weakens in October

2026-11-11 08:49 By Kyrie Dichosa 1 min. read

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce's Consumer Confidence Index declined to 50.9 in October 2026 from 52.1 in September, marking its second consecutive monthly decrease and the lowest reading in four months.

The decline was driven by flooding in and around Bangkok, rising energy costs, with retail fuel prices exceeding 40 baht per liter, and concerns over political stability amid reports of a possible no-confidence debate against the government.

Sub-indices measuring confidence in the overall economy, job opportunities, and future income also fell for a second straight month, to 40.0, 48.8, and 60.0, respectively.

However, consumer spending could receive support toward the end of the year from the government's Thai Chuay Thai Plus stimulus program, the tourism high season, and higher agricultural crop prices.



News Stream
Thailand Consumer Morale Weakens in October
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce's Consumer Confidence Index declined to 50.9 in October 2026 from 52.1 in September, marking its second consecutive monthly decrease and the lowest reading in four months. The decline was driven by flooding in and around Bangkok, rising energy costs, with retail fuel prices exceeding 40 baht per liter, and concerns over political stability amid reports of a possible no-confidence debate against the government. Sub-indices measuring confidence in the overall economy, job opportunities, and future income also fell for a second straight month, to 40.0, 48.8, and 60.0, respectively. However, consumer spending could receive support toward the end of the year from the government's Thai Chuay Thai Plus stimulus program, the tourism high season, and higher agricultural crop prices.
2026-11-11
Thailand Consumer Mood Falls for 1st Time in 4 Months
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce's Consumer Confidence Index declined to 52.1 in September 2026 from August’s six-month high of 53.2. It was the first decline in consumer confidence since May, due to concerns about flooding, a slow economic recovery, and the high cost of living as high oil prices persist amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Thanavath Phonvichai, the university's president, said that economic damage from the floods is estimated at 22 billion baht to 30 billion baht ($655 million to $893 million) and could remain within that range if conditions start to improve next week. Sentiment could improve later this year if flood risks ease, oil prices fall, tourism picks up, and government stimulus measures gain traction, he added. The economy is expected to grow by 2.2% to 2.5% this year.
2026-10-08
Thailand Consumer Morale Highest in 6 Months
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce's Consumer Confidence Index climbed to 53.2 in August 2026 from July’s 51.8. It was the third consecutive month of increases and the highest reading since February, helped by the government's co-payment scheme, steady interest rates, and higher prices for key agricultural products, which boosted purchasing power. Thanavath Phonvichai, the university’s president, said planned energy-sector reforms could help sustain growth after the consumer subsidy scheme ends on Sept. 30. The expected passage of the 2027 budget would also lead to public spending supporting the economy after September, he added. Consumer concerns over the Middle East conflict eased, despite lingering concerns about political stability and living costs if oil prices started to rise.
2026-09-08