Retail trade turnover in the first quarter showed a robust increase compared to the same period last year, with a rise of 10.9% in current prices and 6.7% in constant prices, as per Monstat data.
However, there was a notable decline in turnover when compared to the fourth quarter of the previous year, with a decrease of 11.9% in current prices and 12.4% in constant prices.
In terms of retail trade of motor fuels, the first quarter saw a 3.1% decrease compared to the same period last year and an 18.1% decrease compared to the fourth quarter of last year.
The statement further highlights a positive trend in the retail trade of food, showing a 10.4% increase compared to the first quarter of the previous year, albeit with an 8.6% decrease compared to the fourth quarter of last year.
Moreover, retail trade of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products witnessed a 12.4% increase in the first quarter compared to the same period last year, but experienced a 4.8% decrease compared to the fourth quarter of last year.
Lastly, retail trade of other non-food products saw a notable increase of 13.5% in the first quarter compared to the first quarter of the previous year, yet faced a 17.3% decrease compared to the fourth quarter of last year.
