Dutch consumer spending rises in March despite inflation and falling confidence

Consumer spending in the Netherlands increased in March following two months of decline. Figures from Statistics Netherlands show that consumption was up 0.9 percent year-on-year. This comes after decreases of 0.5 percent in January and 0.3 percent in February.

Statistics Netherlands reported that spending on durable goods rose, with higher expenditures especially on cars, electronics, and home-related products. Consumers also spent more on transport and communication services, healthcare, and housing.

Statistics Netherlands said that consumers spent less on food products and other goods, including energy and fuel. Spending also declined in the hospitality sector, as well as on recreation and cultural activities.

The agency also reports that conditions for consumption were less favourable in April than in March. This was mainly driven by weaker consumer confidence regarding future personal finances over the next year, as well as a smaller year-on-year rise in share prices.

Inflation in the Netherlands rose to 2.7% in March 2026, up from 2.4% a month earlier. The increase was largely fuelled by higher costs for fuel and food products. Even with rising inflation, households saw their real disposable income grow by an average of 2.7% in the preceding period, largely driven by higher wages negotiated through collective labour agreements.

Consumer confidence dropped significantly in April, falling from -30 to -44, according to Statistics Netherlands. This marks the second-largest decline ever measured. At the same time, consumers became more reluctant to make major purchases, with the buying willingness indicator declining from -15 to -26.