ExclusiveUS Retail Sales Surge in March due to Motor Vehicle Buying Ahead of Tariffs

US retail sales increased 1.4% in March after an unrevised 0.2% rise in February, the Commerce Department's Census Bureau said on Wednesday. Several factors drove up the number. Households boosted purchases of motor vehicles ahead of tariffs on cars, which started at the beginning of April. Meanwhile, consumers are also stocking up on other imported goods. Retail sales excluding automobiles, gasoline, building materials and food services rose 0.4% in March after an upwardly revised 1.3% advance in February. Bank credit and debit card data suggest spending continues to be driven by high-income households, with low-income consumers struggling.