Retail sales momentum expected to pick up in 3Q

RGM said the retail sector’s performance remained weaker than the broader economy, which expanded 6% in 2Q, while private consumption grew 4.8%.

PETALING JAYA: Retailers are expecting sales to pick up in the third quarter of financial year 2026 (3Q26), with growth projected at 4.7% for the quarter, according to independent research firm Retail Group Malaysia (RGM).

The outlook comes after the retail industry recorded weaker-than-expected growth of 2.5% in 2Q26, well below the 4.8% growth previously projected by members of the Malaysia Retailers Association and Malaysia Retail Chain Association.