Indonesia: Consumer confidence strengthens in March

• Apr 03, 2018

Consumer confidence rebounded 3.6 percent to 100.8 points in March from 97.3 in the previous month, according to a survey conducted by Danareksa Research Institute (DRI).

DRI says the survey reveals that consumers had given more positive assessments on current economic conditions and the job market, while their concern about high foodstuff prices had fallen to 74.4 from 78.2 percent in the previous month.

DRI says the survey also indicates an increase in household buying intentions.

“In our survey, 42.75 percent of consumers planned to purchase durable goods over the next six months, or up from 41.36 percent in the previous month,” the statement says, adding that only 32.42 percent of consumers planned to purchase durable goods in March 2017.

The DRI consumer confidence survey involved 1,700 Indonesian households across six different main areas. It claims the samples represent Indonesian consumer characteristics, demographically and economically. 

Overall, the index, which measures consumer sentiment toward general prices, fell 1.6 percent from 188.6 to 185.6 points in March. However, this index is still higher than its level one year ago, when the index reached 184.1 in March 2017.

Meanwhile, consumer confidence in regard to the government’s ability to carry out its duties remained strong as after standing at 103.5 points in the previous survey, consumer confidence in the government index (CCGI) had risen 4 percent to 107.6 in March. (bbn)

Source: http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2018/04/03/consumer-confidence-strengthens-in-march.html