Business : Malaysia’s Wholesale, Retail Trade Sales Rise To RM170.5 Bln In July 2026

KUALA LUMPUR -- Malaysia's wholesale and retail trade sales increased by 9.0% year-on-year to RM170.5 billion in July 2026, with growth seen across various activities. The Statistics Department reported a 4.1% year-on-year increase in the volume index and a 1.0% month-on-month rise. Wholesale trade led the growth, with sales jumping 11.7% to RM78.4 billion, up RM8.2 billion from the previous year.

This surge was primarily driven by other specialized wholesale activities, which surged 22.8% to RM31.7 billion, bolstered by higher sales of petrol, diesel, lubricants, and liquefied petroleum gas. Wholesale of household goods expanded by 5.2% to RM15.5 billion, thanks to increased sales of pharmaceuticals, medical goods, jewelry, and clothing.

Agricultural raw materials and live animals saw a 9.0% rise, driven by stronger demand for palm oil. Food, beverages, and tobacco sales grew 3.9% to RM14.7 billion, spurred by higher sales of rice, flour, sugar, dairy products, and fish and seafood. Retail trade sales climbed 6.4% to RM71.3 billion, with non-specialized stores growing 7.2% to RM27.6 billion, thanks to higher sales at supermarkets and department stores.

Sales of other goods in specialized stores rose 7.6% to RM15.1 billion, driven by pharmaceuticals, medical goods, and jewelry. The motor vehicle subsector recorded a 7.9% increase to RM20.8 billion, with vehicle sales up 8.3% to RM10.7 billion. Sales of motor vehicle parts and accessories grew 7.1%, while maintenance and repair activities expanded 6.8%.

Online retail sales index increased 7.4% year-on-year in July, with the strongest growth seen in motor vehicles at 6.2%, followed by retail trade at 4.1% and wholesale trade at 3.6%. The department noted that the wholesale and retail trade sector remained in a positive position in July, buoyed by wholesale activity, household consumption, automotive sales, promotional activities, vehicle-related services, and continued growth in online retail.