12.05.202606:22:31UTC+00Thailand Consumer Mood Falls to 8-Month Low

The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s Consumer Confidence Index fell to 50.6 in April 2026 from 51.8 in March, the lowest reading since August. The decline reflected rising energy prices linked to tensions in the Middle East, while farmers contended with higher fertilizer costs and weaker prices for their crops. In response, households cut back on discretionary spending, potentially weighing on broader economic growth.

Confidence in the overall economy, employment, and future income all deteriorated, and both investment and consumption softened. Even so, the downturn in sentiment was partially contained by steady government policies and measures aimed at easing living costs for vulnerable groups. Efforts to curb prices of consumer goods and provide targeted support, together with a recovery in tourist arrivals, are expected to offer some relief to service-sector businesses.