What: Singapore’s retail sector saw strong sales growth during Chinese New Year, driven by resilient categories and digital innovation.

Why it is important: These developments confirm that integrating digital channels and experiential retail is key to maintaining resilience in Singapore’s evolving retail landscape.

Singapore’s retail industry has demonstrated robust growth during the Chinese New Year period, capitalising on both resilient product categories and the rapid adoption of digital innovation. The timing of the festival significantly influences monthly sales, with categories such as watches and jewellery showing particular strength even when other segments like apparel and supermarkets experience declines. Retailers have responded to these seasonal fluctuations by enhancing their digital capabilities and refining promotional strategies, ensuring they remain agile in the face of changing consumer behaviours. Department stores with prime locations and a focus on experiential retail, such as Tangs and Takashimaya, have managed to outperform competitors by creating engaging, lifestyle-driven environments that attract both local shoppers and tourists. The sector’s ability to integrate digital channels and experiential offerings has not only helped offset the impact of shifting festive calendars but has also positioned Singapore’s retail market as a model of resilience and innovation in the region.

IADS Notes: In March 2026, Inside Retail reported that Singapore’s retail sales were impacted by the late timing of Chinese New Year, with watches and jewellery demonstrating resilience while apparel and supermarkets experienced declines. An April 2025 Inside Retail article noted a 6.7% year-on-year drop in retail sales due to a similar timing shift, with digital commerce maintaining a significant market share. By December 2025, Channel News Asia highlighted that department stores like Tangs and Takashimaya continued to thrive by leveraging prime locations and experiential retail strategies, while Inside Retail emphasised the importance of strong jewellery demand and robust online sales in sustaining growth during festive periods. These sources collectively underscore the sector’s adaptability through digital transformation and experiential retail.

Chinese New Year festivities fuel strong Singapore retail sales growth