ANKARA — Türkiye’s overall trade sales volume declined in May compared with the same month a year earlier, while retail sales continued to expand, highlighting resilient consumer demand despite weaker wholesale activity.
According to data released by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), the total trade sales volume index fell on an annual basis in May. The decline was driven primarily by lower wholesale trade sales and weaker sales in the motor vehicle and motorcycle trade and repair sector. Meanwhile, retail trade sales posted year-on-year growth, offsetting part of the broader slowdown.
On a monthly basis, trade sales volume also weakened compared with April, reflecting softer activity across several segments of the trade sector. Retail sales, however, continued to demonstrate relative strength, supported by consumer spending.
The latest figures suggest that while domestic consumption remains a key driver of economic activity, businesses engaged in wholesale trade and automotive sales continue to face more challenging market conditions. Economists closely monitor the divergence between retail and wholesale performance as an indicator of the broader economy’s momentum and household demand.
Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök