Consumer confidence dropped for the first time in five months in September as the economy showed signs of slowing and farm prices were low, particularly for rubber and rice.
The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce yesterday reported the consumer confidence index declined to 79.2 points last month from August's 13-month high of 80.1.
"The index fell for the first time since May's survey, as the economy has not recovered and indeed shows signs of slowing," said Thanavath Phonvichai, vice-president for research.
"Farm prices remain low, while exports and tourism have not picked up, making people worried about their future income."
The survey showed consumer confidence in the overall economy also fell, to 69.2 points from 70.1 in August.
Confidence in job openings and future income fell to 72.9 and 95.5 points, respectively, from 73.6 and 96.4 in August.
"The government's new economic measures have come just in the nick of time," said Mr Thanavath.
"The measures will be vital to restoring consumer consumption in the fourth quarter. Consumer confidence should turn positive again next month."
But he cautioned the government must speed up spending to ensure the money reaches farmers and labourers quickly.
The cabinet on Wednesday approved a 364.5-billion-baht stimulus package including a cash injection of up to 15,000 baht each for more than 3 million rice farmers nationwide.
The package approved by the cabinet is aimed at boosting the economy over the next three months.
Under one scheme, 1.8 million households, each possessing a maximum 15 rai of farmland, will by Oct 20 receive a one-time payment for cultivation costs at the rate of 1,000 baht a rai.
Another 1.6 million households, each owning more than 15 rai, will receive a flat 15,000 baht per household.
A total of 3.4 million households are eligible for the aid.
Other stimulus measures include expediting payment of 129 billion baht from the fiscal 2015 investment budget across all ministries.
Another 147 billion baht will be spent on projects under the fiscal 2014 budget that are slated to be implemented in the last three months of the present calendar year.
Some 23 billion baht from the remaining Thai Khem Khaeng project will be spent on repair work under the Education and Public Health ministries as well as on irrigation projects.
The government will also accelerate spending of 24.9 billion baht left over from budgets stretching back to fiscal 2005.