Retail Sales Show Modest Gains in May Despite Broader Trade Slowdown

Malaysia’s retail spending rose slightly in May 2025, even as overall distributive trade growth eased to +4.4% year-on-year—the slowest since September 2024. According to MIDF, “the moderation was broad-based, except for retail trade,” which improved marginally to +4.9% year-on-year from +4.7% in April.

Retail sales were supported by higher demand for household equipment, automotive fuel, and specialised stores, while motor vehicle and wholesale trade growth slowed. Looking ahead, MIDF expects consumer spending to remain resilient, aided by a strong labour market, stable inflation, and the recent OPR cut, which is set to “stimulate renewed interest in big-ticket spending.”

MIDF projects retail sales growth to reach +4.6% in 2025, slightly down from +5.4% in 2024.

Retail sales

Business News

Staff Writer

Recent Posts

Interest Rates Expected to Stay Unchanged Amid Stable Outlook

Bank Negara is expected to maintain its current policy stance.

41 minutes ago

Cautious Relief Across Markets as Yields Ease, But Volatility Persists

Global equities rebounded on easing U.S. Treasury yields and hopes of lower geopolitical tensions, although…

7 hours ago

ICBS 2026 Tampilkan Evolusi Budaya Kafe Malaysia

ICBS 2026 tarik 13,000 pengunjung, tonjol segmen teh pertama, bukti budaya kafe Malaysia semakin dinamik…

11 hours ago

Southeast Asia’s Payment Shift Focuses on Experience

Southeast Asia’s payment shift prioritises seamless, secure experiences; businesses must reduce friction to win repeat…

11 hours ago

Huawei Crowns Winners of 10th ICT Competition APAC in Jakarta

Huawei ICT Competition APAC crowns winners in Jakarta, showcasing innovation and digital talent from 14…

20 hours ago

Capital A exits PN17 after four-year restructuring journey

Capital A exits PN17 status effective May 20 after completing restructuring plans, including disposal of…

21 hours ago

This website uses cookies.