Most of our neighbors and Panama showed a growth in household consumption.

In 2014 the volume of household consumption increased by 16% in Nicaragua, 7% in El Salvador, 5% in Panama and 6% in Guatemala, while in Costa Rica and Honduras it fell by 1% and 5%, respectively.

Panama stands out because of the rapid growth of its economy in recent years, which is currently visible in the consumption of its inhabitants, which in 2014 grew by 5% in turnover. Nicaragua, starting from lower levels, shows an equal growth in turnover, despite a 16% growth in volume due to lower prices.

An article in Martesfinanciero.com reports on the results of Consumer Insights in 2014 by Kantar Worldpanel:

“… In El Salvador prices fell to a weighted value of 14%, and triggering a 7% increase in the number of products purchased. But this affected turnover per family, which fell by 4%.”

“… In Costa Rica consumption weakened and contracted by 2% in the total amount paid by households. Prices fell to an average of 4%. Market volume declined by 1%. “