According to the data available, the economic climate index – which is calculated on the basis of surveys of companies in various sectors – was at 2.1 points in March, from 1.9 in February.
The consumer confidence index, meanwhile, was at 2.0 in March, up from 1.3 in February.
In March, the INE noted in its report released on Tuesday, confidence fell in manufacturing, trade and services, but this was offset by a rise in construction and public works.
In consumer confidence, “the increase in the index (…) reflected the positive contribution of all components:prospects relative to the evolution of the household financial situation, of the country’s economic situation, of savings and of unemployment”, the INE said.