The consumer confidence index in Portugal stabilised in December at -22.3 points, the highest value since May 2002, says the latest report from Statistics Portugal, the country’s official statistics bureau. But the economic climate indicator slightly cooled in November and December, after stabilising at the highest value since July 2008, said the report.

In December, the confidence indicator decreased in Trade, stabilised in Manufacturing Industry and in Construction and Public Works, but it increased in Services.

The stabilisation of the consumer confidence indicator in December resulted from a number of positive economic developments said the statistics bureau. They included improved household finances and improved levels of personal saving and some easing in unemployment.

The index for Trade slightly decreased in December, due to some negative sentiment on business activity and to the volume of stock. Sentiment on the outlook for sales was positive.