Saudi consumers increased spending to one of its highest ever weekly levels as they rushed to build up food supplies ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan, local figures show.
Consumer spending in the largest Arab economy soared by 35 percent to 17.6 billion riyals ($4.7 billion) in the period February 23 to March 1, the Saudi daily Aleqtisadia said on Thursday, citing official data.
Food stores, restaurants and coffee shops accounted for nearly 31 percent of total consumer spending during the week that preceded Ramadan, it said.
“Consumer spending in Saudi Arabia reached its highest level during that week. The surge was spurred by the end-of-month salaries and strong demand for food and beverages ahead of Ramadan,” the paper said.
Central Bank data showed spending on food and beverages leaped by around 75 percent week on week to 3.33 billion riyals ($888 million).
Consumer spending and cash withdrawals in Saudi Arabia have steadily grown over the past year, alongside high public expenditure and investment in projects.
In January, consumer spending swelled by 11 percent year on year, a monthly increase of about 1.1 percent, according to the Saudi Jadwa investment company.
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