**Cyprus Retail Sales Register Robust Growth in July**
In a positive development for the Cypriot economy, retail trade turnover in Cyprus saw a significant increase in July 2026. According to a report released by the state statistical service, Cystat, retail sales experienced an impressive growth of 11 percent in value and 8.9 percent in volume compared to the same month in the previous year. This growth marks a continued upward trend for the national retail market, excluding motor vehicles, in both monetary value and actual transaction volume.
The Turnover Value Index, which measures current market prices excluding VAT, reached 161.1 units against a base average of 100 units established in 2021. Meanwhile, the Turnover Volume Index, adjusted for real purchasing activity using the Consumer Price Index, climbed to 144.2 units. These indices indicate a robust recovery and expansion within the retail sector.
Over the first seven months of 2026, the total retail turnover value increased by 7.9 percent, aligning with an identical 8.9 percent rise in sales volume during the same period. This consistent growth reflects a strong consumer demand and a resilient retail environment.
Several sectors contributed significantly to this value expansion. Notably, sales of automotive fuel surged by 17.2 percent in value and 3.4 percent in volume, highlighting an increased consumption of fuel amidst rising travel and transportation activities. Additionally, retail sales through non-store channels, which include online sales, recorded a remarkable 15.2 percent gain in value and a 17.0 percent increase in volume, indicating a shift in consumer shopping habits towards digital platforms.
The household equipment sector, encompassing furniture, electrical appliances, and construction materials, also saw substantial growth, with a 15.0 percent rise in value and a 13.1 percent increase in volume. This trend suggests that consumers are investing in home improvements and renovations, reflecting a broader trend in lifestyle changes.
The information and communication equipment segment experienced a notable 14.2 percent increase in value, accompanied by a striking 25.6 percent jump in sales volume. This growth may be attributed to the ongoing digital transformation and increased demand for technology products.
Cultural and recreational goods, which include books, toys, and sports equipment, also reported a healthy turnover, with value increasing by 11.1 percent and volume rising by 13.2 percent. This indicates a growing interest in leisure activities and family-oriented purchases.
In the specialty goods category, which includes flowers, jewellery, watches, and optical goods, turnover value expanded by 10.8 percent, although volume saw a slight decline of 1.1 percent. The clothing and footwear sector also performed well, with turnover value gaining 9.5 percent and sales volume jumping by 16.4 percent, showcasing a strong demand for fashion items.
Supermarkets reported a 9.8 percent increase in food, beverage, and tobacco sales value, with a corresponding 5.1 percent rise in volume. Specialised food stores, however, experienced a 4.0 percent value increase despite a slight dip in volume of 0.9 percent. The pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and orthopaedic goods sector also demonstrated growth, expanding by 7.0 percent in value and 6.5 percent in volume.
Overall, non-edible products saw a notable increase of 11.7 percent in value and 13.6 percent in volume, while edible goods recorded a 9.0 percent rise in value and a 5.0 percent increase in volume. These figures illustrate a diverse and growing retail landscape in Cyprus, driven by various consumer needs and preferences.
As the retail sector continues to thrive, stakeholders will be closely monitoring these trends to ensure sustained growth and adaptation to changing market dynamics. The robust performance in July serves as a positive indicator for the Cypriot economy, suggesting a strong recovery trajectory as consumer confidence appears to be on the rise.