Bulgarian Consumer Confidence Declines by 4.0 Percentage Points in October, NSI Reports

Overall Confidence Indicator Shows Significant Drop

Bulgarian consumer confidence experienced a notable decline in October 2025, with the total consumer confidence indicator dropping by 4.0 percentage points compared to its July level. Data released by the National Statistical Institute (NSI) indicates the indicator moved from -21.1% in July to -25.1% in October. This downturn reflects increased pessimism among both urban and rural populations across the country.

The decrease in confidence was observed in both demographic segments, with urban inhabitants showing a drop of 3.0 percentage points and rural inhabitants experiencing a more significant decline of 6.2 percentage points.

Deepening Pessimism Across Key Economic Areas

The NSI's regular three-monthly poll highlighted several areas where consumer sentiment has worsened:

• General Economic Situation: Opinions regarding the development of the general economic situation in Bulgaria over the last 12 months, as well as expectations for the next 12 months, became more negative compared to the previous survey.
• Household Financial Situation: Consumers expressed increased pessimism concerning changes in their households' financial situation over the past 12 months and their expectations for the coming 12 months. Balance indicators for these assessments decreased by 2.8 and 4.8 percentage points, respectively.
• Consumer Prices and Inflation: Assessments of consumer price changes over the last 12 months were more unfavorable than three months prior, with inflation expectations remaining preserved for the next 12 months.
• Unemployment: Pessimism regarding unemployment in the country over the next 12 months also increased, with both urban and rural populations anticipating more negative trends.

Impact on Savings and Major Purchases

The current economic climate is largely perceived by consumers as unfavorable for savings. Expectations regarding opportunities for saving over the next 12 months have also worsened.

Furthermore, consumer attitudes towards intentions of making significant expenditures have turned negative. This includes plans for:

• Major purchases of durable goods
• 'Buying or building a home (villa)'
• 'Home improvements' over the next 12 months

The NSI conducts its consumer survey four times a year, gathering data from approximately 1200 individuals across urban and rural areas to provide objective statistical information on economic and social processes in Bulgaria.