Retail trade and food and beverage (F&B) services in Singapore experienced growth in September 2026, with retail sales rising by 1.7% and F&B services by 1.0% compared to the same month last year. The Retail Sales Index (RSI) and Food & Beverage Services Index (FSI) provide insights into these sectors’ performance, highlighting the importance of domestic consumption.
The total retail sales value in September 2026 was estimated at $4.3b, with online sales accounting for 17.7% of this figure. Excluding motor vehicles, parts, and accessories, retail sales increased by 2.5% year-on-year, reaching $3.6b, with 20.8% from online sales. Notably, the computer and telecommunications equipment sector saw a 16.5% increase in sales, driven by higher demand for mobile phones.
In the F&B sector, fast food outlets and restaurants recorded year-on-year sales growth of 7.6% and 2.6%, respectively. The total sales value for F&B services was $1.6b, with online sales making up 21.1%. However, food courts and other eating places experienced a 4.2% decline in turnover.
Despite the positive year-on-year growth, seasonally adjusted figures showed a 1.0% decline in retail sales from August 2026. The F&B sector, however, saw a 0.8% increase in seasonally adjusted sales month-on-month. These indices reflect the dynamic nature of consumer spending in Singapore, with online sales playing a significant role in both sectors.
