The consumer confidence index (CCI) for January 2013 was up from 80.2 reported in December 2012 to stand at 81.7, reported Thanavath Phonwichai, director of the Economic and Business Forecasting Centre at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce.

Mr Thanavath said his centre’s recent surveys showed that consumer confidence had risen for three straight months and was at its highest level in 13 months, since October 2011.

He attributed the increase in consumer confidence to the improvement in global and domestic economies, and the increase in private investment and domestic consumption.

The government’s 300 baht daily minimum wage policy had also helped boost people's purchasing power.

However, consumers were still concerned on the ongoing political conflict, particularly after the March 3 Bangkok governor election, the Preah Vihear border dispute and the row over constitutional amendment, he said. Reported Bangkok Post