Cyprus recorded the highest monthly increase in retail trade volume among EU member states, with a 3.7% rise between April and May 2026, according to Eurostat. This growth significantly outpaced the 0.2% increase in the euro area and the 0.5% rise across the EU during the same period. The surge followed a downturn in April when retail trade volumes declined in both the euro area and the EU.

On an annual basis, Cyprus posted the strongest growth with an 8.4% increase in retail trade compared to May 2025, surpassing other high performers like Bulgaria and Luxembourg. Sectorally, sales of food, drinks, and tobacco saw moderate increases, while automotive fuel sales dropped notably across the euro area and the EU. Other member states with significant monthly retail growth included Luxembourg and Poland, whereas Estonia, Croatia, Belgium, and Lithuania experienced declines.

These figures illustrate Cyprus's robust retail market performance amid broader EU economic trends, highlighting a positive outlook for consumer spending in the region during mid-2026.