Russia Raises 2026 Retail Trade Growth Forecast to 4.6% from 0.8%

Russia's Ministry of Economic Development sharply revised its 2026 retail trade growth forecast upward to 4.6% from 0.8% in May, signaling stronger-than-expected domestic consumption. The revision suggests improving consumer demand, possibly driven by wage growth or fiscal stimulus, but the underlying drivers are not specified. This is a notable upgrade that may reflect broader economic resilience despite sanctions.