Japan’s retail sales growth eases in November

ANKARA

Japan’s retail sales growth slowed down for the second consecutive month in November, according to official data released on Tuesday.

Retail sales rose for the ninth straight month with a 2.6% annual increase, but eased from the 4.4% jump recorded in October, Economy Trade and Industry Ministry data showed.

The November figure was below market expectations of a 3.7% gain.

The sustained growth has largely been due to resilient domestic consumption despite concerns over a possible COVID-19 resurgence.

On a monthly basis, retail trade decreased by 1.1% in November, following an upwardly revised 0.3% expansion in October.