BANGKOK, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's consumer confidence improved for the first time in eight months in October, thanks to the easing flood situation, an interest rate cut, and the government's economic measures, a survey showed on Thursday.
According to the survey of 2,242 respondents conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the consumer confidence index inched up to 56 last month from 55.3 in September as all components of the index increased.
Despite optimistic signs about a recovering economy, consumers remained cautious on spending, especially on durable goods, amid concerns over high living costs, said the university's President Thanavath Phonvichai.
Upward trends in the Southeast Asian country's exports and the vital tourism industry, along with additional government stimulus packages, were supportive factors, Thanavath told a news conference. ■
