BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s consumer confidence fell for the fifth consecutive month in June, reaching its lowest level in 28 months, as worries over political instability and growing fears of a global trade war weigh heavily on public sentiment.
According to the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) has declined steadily since February 2025. The latest figures show that consumer confidence regarding the overall economy dropped to 46.7, confidence in job prospects fell to 50.6, and confidence in future income slipped to 60.9 — all significantly lower than May’s readings of 48.1, 51.9, and 62.7 respectively.
The study revealed that consumers remain deeply concerned about the stability of the current government, the overall political climate, and the potential impact of renewed trade tensions sparked by the anticipated return of U.S. protectionist policies under a possible “Trump 2.0” administration. Many also feel the Thai economy is slowing, despite the government’s stimulus measures and the Bank of Thailand’s monetary easing, which included two interest rate cuts this year totaling 0.5%, bringing the policy rate down to 1.75%.
Nevertheless, confidence has not improved. The economy is seen as recovering too slowly, access to credit remains difficult, and consumers continue to grapple with high living costs. As long as uncertainty persists, especially on the political and international fronts, Thai households are likely to remain cautious about spending, employment, and income expectations. (TNA)
