as gross revenues were $44 million, according to estimates from the Ministry of Finance's statistics department.

The monthly statement said that while the level of retail sales continues to out pace sales reported in the previous period, the rate of increase slowed during November.

After adjusting for inflation (consumer price index for November: 1.8 percent), the total volume of sales increased 4.9 percent, with 24 shopping days in the month -- one less than November 1996.

The report said that stores in the general category posted the largest gain with sales increasing by 10.4 percent.

The boost in aggregate receipts for the sector was due, in part, to heavier demand for larger-ticket, durable items such as home appliances, furniture and household furnishings, as many consumers prepared their homes for the December holiday season.

Also higher were sales of pharmaceuticals and hardware goods.

The report added: "Domestic demand for clothing and footwear was down, but jewellery purchases were strong due to special seasonal sales.

"Larger department stores also posted gains which were primarily due to pre-Christmas sales. Stores that catered to tourists generally did well and this perhaps is attributed to the 7.1 percent increase in air visitors in November.

November retail sales increase "After posting double digit increases in the past few months, the motor vehicle dealers and service station sector saw the pace of its growth slow down in November.

"Sales in this sector grew by 4.6 percent. Food stores posted a 3.8 percent increase in gross receipts, while liquor store sales remained flat.

"Residents returning from business and vacation trips abroad declared purchases of goods valued at $3.66 million, a seven per cent increase year-over-year.'' BUSINESS BUC