Retail sales in Bulgaria rose 7.1% year-on-year in June, down from 7.9% in the previous month. The slowdown reflected weaker activity in automotive fuels in specialized stores and in food, beverages and tobacco. Non-food products excluding fuel remained the strongest part of the market, accelerating to 9.9% from 8.3% on firmer sales in non-specialized stores, mail-order and internet retail, and textiles, clothing and footwear. Growth also moderated in household appliances, furniture and other household goods, while computer and communications equipment advanced at a slower pace. Pharmaceutical and medical goods, cosmetics and toiletries returned to growth after contracting in the prior month. On a monthly basis, retail sales increased 0.5% in June, easing from a revised 0.7% gain in May.