Panama City, Feb 5 (EFE).- Panamanian consumer confidence has risen in recent months, improving the perception of the labor market in the Central American country, but not enough to change the negative perception of the economy's evolution, according to the results of a periodic survey released this Thursday. The Panamanian Consumer Confidence Index (ICCP) rose to 92 points in January 2026, 13 points higher than the indicators from September 2025, although the overall figure remains in a zone of distrust. In the ICCP survey, conducted by The Marketing Group (TMG) in alliance with the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP), 100 is the breakeven point for consumers' confidence or distrust regarding the future of their households, the country, savings, and jobs. "The latest measurement of the Consumer Confidence Index shows progress in several of its components, although the overall indicator remains at distrust levels, reflecting a cautious assessment by consumers about the evolution of the economy," stated TMG's CEO and general manager, María Alejandra Cuéllar, in a press release. Among the index's components, the probability of saving money in the next 12 months stood at 87 points, an increase of 14 points from the 73 points recorded in September 2025, although the result still does not reach confidence levels. In contrast, the indicator related to unemployment reached 101 points, increasing by 13 points from the previous measurement and entering a zone of confidence. According to the survey, 31% of respondents consider it very likely to find employment, and 23% rate it as quite likely. Meanwhile, 19% estimate it is unlikely to get a job, and 24% believe they will not find employment, while 3% did not express a defined opinion, reflecting still heterogeneous perceptions of the labor market. The perception of the household's economic situation also showed improvement, rising from 82 points in September 2025 to 96 points in January 2026, suggesting a less adverse view of family finances. Meanwhile, expectations for the national economy over the next 12 months stood at 84 points, 13 points above the previous measurement, although still not consolidating a scenario of confidence. "This mixed behavior indicates partial progress that could gradually contribute to greater stability in consumer expectations in the coming months," the press release concludes. Panama recorded GDP growth of 'approximately' 4% in 2025, the Ministry of Economy and Finance indicated this Thursday, driven by the interoceanic canal, among other sectors.
