Bandar seri begawan: The sales value for food and beverage services in the fourth quarter of 2025 saw a modest increase of 0.5 per cent, rising from 114.4 million Brunei dollars in the same period of 2024 to 115.0 million Brunei dollars. This growth was primarily driven by a 6.0 per cent rise in sales from other food service activities, including food courts and kiosks, as well as a 1.9 per cent increase from fast-food outlets and beverage serving activities. The volume of food and beverage services also experienced a slight growth of 0.2 per cent compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.
According to Radio Television Brunei, retail sales did not share the same positive trend, with both sales value and volume experiencing declines in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Sales value dropped by 4.8 per cent, with revenue falling from 419.5 million Brunei dollars to 399.5 million Brunei dollars. The decline was largely due to decreased sales in department stores, computer and telecommunications equipment, and supermarkets. However, some activities saw an increase, particularly petrol stations and food and beverages in specialized stores. Retail sales volume also recorded a negative growth of 5.5 per cent compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.
Over the entire year of 2025, the sales value for food and beverage services decreased by 0.6 per cent compared to 2024, mainly due to lower sales in restaurants, beverage serving activities, and catering services. Fast-food outlets, however, reported a 3.9 per cent increase. The sector also saw a 1.0 per cent decline in volume over the year.
Retail sales for the year 2025 recorded a decrease in sales value by 3.9 per cent compared to 2024. The decline was attributed to reduced sales in department stores, supermarkets, and computer and telecommunications equipment. Conversely, there were increases in sales for pharmaceutical and medical goods, cosmetics and toilet articles in specialized stores, as well as watches and jewellery. Retail sales volume also saw negative growth compared to 2024. Full reports are available on the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics website.