Consumer confidence plunges to lowest point this year

By Zoila Palma:  Consumer confidence continued to decline in May 2026, with the national Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) falling 6.2 percent to 41.3 from 44.0 in April, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB).

It marked the fourth consecutive monthly decline and the steepest drop recorded so far this year, reflecting weaker consumer sentiment across all major components of the index.

The sharpest decline was seen in consumers’ assessment of current economic conditions. The “Present” component fell 7.6 percent, from 41.0 in April to 37.9 in May, indicating growing pessimism about the country’s economy and household finances compared to a year ago.

Confidence in future economic conditions also weakened, with the “Expectations” component slipping 4.1 percent from a slightly optimistic 50.4 to a slightly pessimistic 48.3. Sentiment toward purchasing major household items such as furniture, electronics and vehicles also deteriorated, as the “Durable Goods” component declined 7.3 percent to 37.6.

Consumer confidence fell across most districts, with Cayo recording the largest decline. Overall sentiment in the district dropped 10.6 percent, from 43.1 in April to 38.5 in May, driven largely by a 25.9 percent plunge in confidence toward purchasing durable goods.

The survey also found that urban consumers became significantly more pessimistic than those in rural areas.

Confidence among urban residents fell 8.5 percent to 40.9, with notable declines in perceptions of current economic conditions and willingness to make major purchases.

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