Is the Retail Sector in India Poised for 9-10% Growth Soon?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Indian retail sector is valued at $900 billion.
- Current growth is at 5% but expected to reach 9-10%.
- RAI indicates a rebound in consumer spending.
- Southern India leads with 9% growth in May.
- Festive season may boost retail sales further.
New Delhi, June 29 (NationPress) The Indian retail sector, valued at $900 billion, is demonstrating robust signs of recovery and is anticipated to accelerate its growth in the upcoming months, as reported by the Retailers’ Association of India (RAI).
The current growth rate stands at 5%, but it is expected to soon escalate to a range of 9 to 10 percent.
RAI's CEO Kumar Rajagopalan noted that following the pandemic, the sector rebounded strongly with a growth rate of 20 percent.
“However, over the past year, growth has slowed to approximately 5 percent. With market stability, increased consumer spending, and an appropriate consumer base in place, the sector is beginning to exhibit signs of accelerated growth once again,” he added.
According to RAI’s 62nd Retail Business Survey, retail sales throughout India surged by 7 percent in May 2025 compared to the same month last year.
This represents a significant improvement following months of moderate growth fluctuating between 4 to 5 percent.
Regionally, southern India led the charge with a 9 percent increase in retail sales during May.
Western India followed closely with 7 percent, while the northern and eastern regions reported growth rates of 6 percent and 4 percent, respectively, according to the report.
Among various segments, quick service restaurants (QSR) exhibited the highest growth at 10 percent.
Consumer durables and electronics, along with furniture, also performed admirably with an 8 percent rise in sales each.
Rajagopalan stated that this uptick indicates that consumers are increasingly willing to spend, particularly on non-essential or discretionary items.
Looking forward, the CEO of RAI expressed optimism regarding the upcoming festive season.
He mentioned that the improving consumer sentiment could further enhance retail sales, bringing the sector closer to double-digit growth in the near future.