Consumer Confidence Index Declined in September: Economic Expectations Remain Negative

ANKARA - According to the results of the Consumer Tendency Survey conducted in cooperation with the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT) and the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT), consumer confidence index data for September 2025 were announced. Accordingly, the index decreased by 0.4 percent to 83.9 in September from 84.3 in August. This decline shows that consumers remain cautious about the economic future.

Decline in Current Financial Situation and General Economic Prospects

A look at the sub-items of the consumer confidence index reveals some significant changes:

• Households' Current Financial Situation Index: decreased by a significant 3.2 percent, from 70 to 67.8. This indicates that households assess their current financial situation more negatively than in August.

• The Index of Expectations for Household Finances Over the Next 12 Months: rose slightly by 0.2 percent to 84. This increase indicates that consumers are holding out faint hope that their personal financial situation may improve slightly in the future.

• General Economic Situation Expectations Index: The index, which was 78.4 last month, was calculated as 78 this month, down 0.5 percent. This indicates that consumers' negative expectations about the country's overall economic outlook have remained or slightly increased.

Increase in Consumer Durables Spending Consideration

Despite the negative overall expectations, there was an increase in the index for intention to spend on durable goods over the next 12 months. This index increased by 0.9 percent to 105.7 in September from 104.8 last month. This suggests that consumers continue to be inclined to buy some durable goods, perhaps motivated to buy today in anticipation of future price increases.

Digital Ease in Customs Transactions

On the other hand, while announcing these data, TurkStat also announced a convenience regarding customs procedures at airports. It is stated that customs procedures at airports can now be inquired via mobile application. This digitalization step aims to provide convenience to citizens.

The overall decline in the consumer confidence index indicates that uncertainties about the course of the economy and households' concerns about the current financial situation persist. In particular, the decline in expectations for the general economic situation indicates a continued cautious stance towards the national economy.