Key Facts
• On August 29, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry released July retail sales data.
• Retail sales increased by 0.3% year-on-year, down from June’s 1.9% growth.
• Textile, clothing, and accessory retail sales rose 8.0%, boosting overall performance.
• General merchandise and fuel retail sales dropped by 5.8% and 4.9%, respectively.
• Pharmaceutical and cosmetic retail sales grew by 3.9%.
• Department store sales fell 6.6%, while supermarkets saw a 4.9% increase.
• Convenience store sales rose 3.6%, but large electronics stores declined by 4.8%.
• Drugstore sales increased by 5.7%.
Summary
Japan’s retail sales in July 2025 grew by 0.3% year-on-year, marking a slowdown from June’s 1.9% growth, according to data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Textile, clothing, and accessory sales surged by 8.0%, offsetting declines in general merchandise (-5.8%) and fuel retail (-4.9%). Supermarkets performed well with a 4.9% increase, while department stores struggled with a 6.6% drop. Convenience stores and drugstores also saw growth, rising 3.6% and 5.7%, respectively. However, large electronics stores experienced a 4.8% decline. The data highlights mixed performance across retail sectors, reflecting varied consumer spending trends.
