Electronic payments rise in restaurants, retail in January

Macau’s electronic payment transaction value for restaurants and similar establishments rose 3.5% month-on-month to MOP1.20 billion in January, according to the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC). Retail trade also saw growth, with transaction value climbing 5.9% month-on-month to MOP5.42 billion. Fast-food restaurants and local-style cafes posted the largest gains in the dining sector, while footwear, supermarkets, cosmetics and pharmacy retailers led retail expansion. However, restaurant transactions fell 6.8% year-on-year, partly due to the higher base recorded during the Lunar New Year period in 2025.