Retail sales in India grew 7% year-on-year in April 2026, according to Round 70 of the Retailers Association of India’s (RAI) monthly Business Survey, indicating continued stability in consumer demand across regions and categories.
Region-wise, West India reported the highest growth at 9%, followed by South at 8%, while North and Pan-India growth stood at 7% each. East India recorded relatively moderate growth at 5%.
Among categories, consumer durables and electronics led with 11% growth, followed by food & grocery at 9%, apparel and QSRs at 8% each, and footwear at 7%.
Retailers continue to navigate a demand environment marked by cautious consumer spending and increasing operating costs. While discretionary purchases remain selective, essential categories are sustaining momentum. Businesses are also focusing on sharper inventory planning, value-driven offerings, and operational efficiencies to maintain margins.
Kumar Rajagopalan, Executive Director and CEO, RAI: “Retail in India has witnessed a modest 7% growth in April ‘26. Decent but not exciting. Global cost pressures are real, and they are showing up in how businesses are operating across categories. India has navigated these pressures better than many others. Consumers still want to spend — that intent is there, and that matters. But retailers are being careful, and rightly so.”
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