Retailers pin hopes for 2026 rebound on H2 lift

Local retailers welcome release of the draft IRR on the VAT refund measure.

MANILA, Philippines — Retailers are counting on a stronger second half to salvage a difficult 2026, after soaring fuel prices and a weak global backdrop curbed discretionary spending.

Most retailers posted single-digit sales growth in the first half, but the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) said momentum slowed sharply at the start of the second quarter as oil prices spiked amid the Middle East conflict.

READ: S&P cuts PH growth outlook to 4.1%

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Retailers pin hopes for 2026 rebound on H2 lift

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