Hakuhodo Institute of Life and Living: Consumption Forecast for Next Month (April 2026)

Hakuhodo Institute of Life and Living, a think tank of Hakuhodo Inc. (Headquarters: Tokyo), conducts a monthly survey of 1,500 men and women aged 20-69 to score their 'consumption desire for the coming month.' The results are published as the 'Consumption Forecast for Next Month.' (Survey conducted March 5-7). The consumption desire index for April 2026 is 44.8 points. This is a slight increase of 0.8 points from the previous month, but a decrease of 1.7 points compared to the same month last year. [Point 1] Consumption desire, especially among men, has declined year-on-year due to inflation caused by the worsening situation in the Middle East. While April usually sees a seasonal rise in consumption desire, the year-on-year drop to 44.8 points marks a 10-year low. Negative responses regarding inflation and price hikes have increased significantly. [Point 2] Consumption intent for spring-related categories, such as fashion and outings, has also declined both month-on-month and year-on-year, particularly among men.