In November, Singapore’s retail sales, excluding motor vehicles, saw an upswing of 5.8%, making it the most substantial rise recorded for the year 2025.
Data provided by the Department of Statistics indicates that the estimated total retail sales value for the month was approximately SG$3.9 billion (equivalent to US$3 billion). Of this total, online transactions accounted for nearly a fifth, or 19.3%.
When comparing the sales on a seasonally adjusted basis, it was found that November’s retail sales witnessed a modest increase of 0.8% in comparison to the previous month, October.
An industry-wise analysis revealed that several sectors reported significant rises in sales. The sales of recreational goods, watches and jewellery, and cosmetics, toiletries and medical goods saw a surge between 11.4% and 13.9% year-on-year.
Moreover, other sectors, including apparel and footwear, supermarkets and hypermarkets, mini-marts and convenience stores, furniture and household equipment, and computer and telecommunications equipment, also registered growth, with an increase in sales between 6.1% and 9.4%.
However, not all sectors experienced growth during this period; petrol service stations and food and alcohol retailers reported sales declines of 6.7% and 3.1% respectively.
Meanwhile, the food and beverage services sector reported a rise of 2.5% in sales during November, a slight increase compared to the 2.4% rise seen in October. The total sales value of the F&B services for the month was estimated at SG$1 billion, with a significant 24.8% derived from online sales.
What was the overall growth in Singapore’s retail sales in November, excluding motor vehicles?
The overall growth in Singapore’s retail sales, excluding motor vehicles, was 5.8% in November.
Which sector reported the most significant growth in sales?
The sectors of recreational goods, watches and jewellery, and cosmetics, toiletries and medical goods reported the most significant growth, with an increase between 11.4% and 13.9%.
Did all sectors experience growth in November?
No, not all sectors experienced growth. Both petrol service stations and food and alcohol retailers saw sales declines of 6.7% and 3.1% respectively.
