Public perceptions of the increase of consumer prices in July remain alarming, shows a poll conducted by the National Statistical Institute (NSI).

Expectations of the change of consumer prices in the next twelve months are more negative. This index registered an increase of 5.4 points.

People's perceptions of inflation over the last twelve months have a higher value (2.8 points up) compared to opinions expressed three months earlier. At the same time, however, in terms of expected unemployment, consumers retain their positive attitude. In July, this index decreased by 0.6 points compared to the results of a poll in April, the NSI said.

In July, the consumer confidence index decreased by 2.7 points compared to its April level. The index decreased both among the rural and the urban population. Overall, the July poll registered growing pessimism in the perceptions and expectations of consumers compared to the opinions expressed three months earlier.

Increased pessimism is also registered in the perceptions of the current development of the economic situation in the country and in the expectations of twelve months ahead.

The poll is part of the harmonized programme of the EU for monitoring of business trends and consumers, and it is representative for the population aged 16 or over, the NSI said.