Retail spending decreased in B.C. and across the country in May, signalling a moderation in consumer demand and some impact from retaliatory tariffs passed on to Canadians.

Nationally, retail spending declined one per cent to $69.2 billion in May, while B.C. sales were down a more modest 0.4 per cent to $9.6 billion. Inflation-adjusted national sales fell 1.4 per cent. A major contributor to the national decline was the motor vehicle and parts category, which plunged 3.6 per cent.

According to Statistics Canada, 32 per cent of retail businesses were impacted by tariffs during the month through price increases, altered demand, or higher costs for raw materials, shipping, or labour. This was down from 36 per cent in April.

Despite the month-over-month decline, B.C.’s sales were up 6.9........

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