Retailers demand level-playing field with e-tailers

RAI also discussed the foreign direct investment (FDI) norms of the retail sector with the minister. The association held the meeting on account of the controversy regarding advertisements for deals and discounts by e-commerce websites, according to media reports.

As per the guidelines of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), e-commerce websites providing a marketplace cannot influence sale prices of goods or services and need to maintain a level-playing field. Brick-and-mortar store owners and the confederation of all India traders have been opposing advertisements of discounts by e-commerce players as they infringe these guidelines.

Biyani said that the meeting was held to discuss FDI norms in retail and e-commerce. He believes that there should be uniformity in the policy.

The Indian government allowed 100 per cent FDI through automatic route in e-commerce retailing earlier this year. (KD)

ALCHEMPro News Desk – India