Rio, 15 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) Monthly Survey of Commerce shows that retail sales volume around the country rose 1.22% in May, compared to May 2001. However, other indicators remain negative: retail sales are down 0.59% for the first five months of 2002, and down 1.42% for the last 12 months.

Compared to sales in April, sales in May were down 1.92%.

However, nominal revenue continued its steady rise. Nominal sales in May were up 7.48%, compared to May 2001, up 5.38% for the year, and 4.64% for the last 12 months. (AB)