Eurozone and EU Retail Trade Experience Marginal Decline

In March, the Eurozone and the European Union witnessed a slight decrease in retail trade, with both regions recording a 0.1% drop from the previous month, according to Eurostat's latest report. Despite this monthly dip, the year-on-year comparison shows a positive trend, with the euro area and the EU seeing increases of 1.5% and 1.4%, respectively.

Sector-Specific Performance Highlights

The report detailed varied performances across different sectors. Food, drinks, and tobacco sales saw a 0.1% decrease in the euro area and a 0.4% drop in the EU. Non-food products experienced a 0.1% decline in the Eurozone but a slight 0.1% increase in the EU. Notably, automotive fuel sales in specialized stores rose by 0.4% in both regions.

Country-Level Retail Sales Variations

Slovenia, Estonia, and Slovakia faced the most significant monthly declines, with retail sales dropping by 2%, 1.3%, and 0.9%, respectively. Conversely, Malta led with a 2% increase in retail sales, followed by Belgium and Croatia, both enjoying a 1.4% growth.