Indian retailers pin festive hopes on GST cut as H1 demand stays sluggish

Retailers are banking on Navratri-Diwali 2025 and a potential GST rationalisation to revive weak discretionary spend after a soft first half. Quick commerce migration and middle-class budget strain threaten to cap the festive upside despite inventory build-ups.

— Filed Thu, 14 May, 2026, 21:59 IST · Source CNBC-TV18 · Retail · Updated

Indian retailers are banking on the 2025 Navratri-Diwali festive window and possible GST rationalisation to revive weak discretionary demand after a sluggish first half, though quick commerce shift and middle-class budget pressures may cap upside.