Retail sales in Singapore increased by 3.0% in May 2026 compared to the same month last year, according to the latest figures from the Retail Sales Index. The growth, however, was a slowdown from the 5.4% rise observed in April 2026. Excluding motor vehicles, parts, and accessories, retail sales saw a 3.7% increase. In contrast, the Food & Beverage (F&B) services sector experienced no growth year-on-year, maintaining the same level as May 2025.
The total retail sales value for May 2026 was estimated at $4.5 billion, with online sales accounting for 15.1% of this figure. Notably, the Computer & Telecommunications Equipment sector had the highest online sales proportion at 59.4%. Meanwhile, the F&B services sector recorded a total sales value of $1.7 billion, with 19.8% of sales conducted online.
Within the retail sector, the Recreational Goods and Watches & Jewellery industries led the growth, with increases of 23.6% and 11.7% respectively. Conversely, the Food & Alcohol and Department Stores sectors saw declines of 3.7% and 3.3% respectively. On a month-on-month basis, retail sales fell by 2.3%, with notable declines in Wearing Apparel & Footwear and Motor Vehicles, Parts & Accessories.
In the F&B sector, Fast Food Outlets and Food Caterers saw year-on-year sales increases of 2.6% and 1.9% respectively, whilst Food Courts & Other Eating Places experienced a 5.3% decline. Month-on-month, the F&B sector saw a 0.6% decrease, with Fast Food Outlets and Food Caterers experiencing the most significant drops.
The data highlights the ongoing shifts in consumer behaviour, with online sales continuing to play a significant role in both retail and F&B sectors. As the year progresses, these trends will be crucial for businesses to monitor and adapt to.
