decline in volume of sales since January. The total value of sales rose marginally by 1.3 percent year over year, with the gross turnover in the retail sector estimated at $47.1 million for the month.

The amount of money pulled in by the general retail stores rose marginally by 0.1 percent above the level reached in June 1994, while there were mixed performances among those stores catering to domestic demand.

Sales in electronic equipment, appliances and clothing fell while personal care products, pharmaceuticals and furniture increased compared with June last year.

Vehicle sales, meanwhile, surpassed those for 1994. But this was more a reflection on a slump experienced by some dealers last year.

Receipts from petrol were also up during the month.