The MNI China Consumer Indicator rose for the second consecutive month in September to 92.4 from 90.7 in August, although remained below the average seen over the past year.
The latest rise came against a backdrop of improving economic indicators and followed the government mini-stimulus in late June.
Three out of the five components of the indicator rose in September, led by an improvement in personal finances and expectations for business conditions in a year.
Among the three major Tier 1 Cities, confidence rose strongly in Beijing, increased marginally in Guangzhou, but fell in Shanghai.
Confidence showed a sharp improvement in the 35-54 age range, but deteriorated significantly in the 55-64 group, while sentiment among 18-34 year olds remained stable.
The outlook for employment improved sharply in September but remained just below the average for the past year.
Commenting on the data, MNI Indicators Chief Economist Philip Uglow said, “Consumer confidence picked up again in September but was still below average.”“
A recovery in the Employment Indicator was encouraging and with signs of a strengthening in economic growth, confidence could improve further,” he added.