Softer demand for durable goods and services caused Kuwait’s consumer spending index to ease to 6.5 per cent year-on-year (y/y) in July, despite recording a strong rise in month-on-month terms, said the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) in its latest Economic Update.
Meanwhile, spending on non-durables increased in July, but growth in that sector was close to flat relative to last year. Year-to-date, the NBK consumer spending index is down 1 per cent.
The consumption of durables was flat in July, with growth easing to 7.3 per cent y/y from 10.8 per cent in June, as the sector continued to feel the impact of seasonally lower demand during the summer months. Sales of cars, furniture, and luxury items were weaker, while spending on electronics picked up.
With the travel season in full swing, service consumption was up slightly on the month, supported by spending on travel, but growth slowed to a still strong 10.4 per cent y/y.
Meanwhile, consumption of non-durables witnessed its strongest monthly pick-up in a year, driven by clothing and cosmetics. Growth for the year was softer, however, contracting by 0.3 per cent y/y, its first time since December.
Consumer spending is projected to continue growing through 2018, albeit at a softer pace than originally expected. A steady expansion in national employment and expat employment (better than earlier expectations) should support spending, with further support from low inflation and higher public spending.
