Chile retail activity rises 5.3% in February

According to data released by the National Statistics Institute of Chile, Chile's retail activity continued to expand in February, with the Index of Commercial Activity (IAC) rising 5.3% year-on-year in constant prices.

In the first two months of 2026, the index increased 4.1%, with all three of its main components contributing positively to the result, indicating broad-based growth across the sector.

Drivers of growth

Retail trade (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) increased 5.1% from February 2025, contributing 2.525 percentage points to overall IAC growth.

The expansion was primarily driven by stronger sales through online and mail-order channels, underscoring the continued importance of digital commerce in supporting retail activity.

Wholesale trade (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) grew 5.4% year-on-year, contributing 2.265 percentage points to the overall increase in the index.

Growth in this segment was mainly supported by higher sales of machinery, equipment, and materials.

The division covering the sale, maintenance, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles rose 5.8% compared to the same month last year, adding 0.517 percentage points to the IAC.

The increase was driven by higher sales of auto parts, components, and accessories.

Supermarket sales show weaker momentum

Supermarket activity was more subdued relative to the broader commercial sector.

The Supermarket Sales Index (ISUP), measured in constant prices, declined 0.4% year-on-year in February.

However, in the first two months of the year, supermarket sales rose 0.9%.

The calendar-adjusted and seasonally adjusted series showed a 0.3% year-on-year decline and a 0.6% decrease from the previous month, indicating softer short-term dynamics.

E-commerce continues to expand

E-commerce remained a key growth segment.

The Retail Electronic Commerce Index (ICEM), measured in current prices, increased 17.3% year-on-year in February, with cumulative growth of 14.4% so far in 2026.

Sales of electronic and household technology products were the primary contributors to this increase.

Unlike the IAC, the ICEM is measured in current prices and is therefore not directly comparable.

Overall, February data points to continued expansion in Chile’s commercial sector, supported by gains in retail, wholesale, and vehicle-related trade.