SINGAPORE'S retail sales rose in December, jumping a seasonally adjusted 1.7 per cent from November, reflecting stronger sales of clothing and recreational goods.

The rise in retail sales in December after adjustment for seasonal patterns follows a 0.9 per cent fall in November. From a year ago, the December index rose 2.5 per cent, compared to 0.3 per cent fall in November.

Economists had forecasted retail sales in December to rise slightly from November after falling for two straight months, as cautious spending in big-ticket items such as cars capped sales.

Excluding motor vehicle sales, the December index was 2.5 per cent lower after adjustment for seasonal patterns, following a 4.5 per cent gain in November, revised from 4.3 per cent, the Department of Statistics said on Friday. -- REUTERS