Overview

Data from Eurostat show that Cyprus recorded a 0.8% decline in retail trade volume in January 2026, while the European Union registered a slight increase. Retail trade across the EU rose by 0.1% compared with December 2025.

Monthly Performance: Cyprus Versus The EU

In January 2026, the euro area recorded a seasonally adjusted decline of 0.1% in retail trade volume, while the EU posted a 0.1% increase. Cyprus moved in the opposite direction, with retail activity falling after small increases recorded in previous months. Retail trade had increased by 0.1% in December 2025 following a 0.9% rise in November.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Sector-Specific Insights

Sector data for the euro area show mixed developments across retail categories. Sales of food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.3% compared with the previous month. Non-food products excluding automotive fuel declined by 0.2%, while automotive fuel sold in specialised stores fell by 1.1%. Across the EU, sales of food, drinks and tobacco increased by 0.4%. Non-food products declined by 0.1%, while automotive fuel sales decreased by 1.0%.

Annual Growth And National Variations

On an annual basis, the calendar-adjusted retail sales index increased by 2.0% in the euro area and by 2.3% across the EU. Several countries recorded stronger monthly increases, including Estonia with a 4.4% rise, Latvia with 2.8%, and Portugal with 2.0%. Other member states reported declines during the same period, including Slovakia, Slovenia, and Croatia. Luxembourg recorded a 24.7% annual increase in retail sales. Lithuania and Estonia also reported higher annual growth rates.

Market Implications

The latest data illustrate differences in retail performance across EU member states and sectors. Variations between national markets and product categories continue to influence consumer spending patterns across the region.

For businesses and policymakers, these figures provide additional context for assessing developments in retail activity, particularly in markets where growth remains uneven. The contrast between Cyprus and the broader EU also highlights how national trends can diverge from wider regional patterns.

Eurostat’s data provide further insight into how retail sectors across the EU are evolving as companies adjust to changing consumer demand and economic conditions.