Multi-brand retail FDI: Government panel to sort out internal trade issues

NEW DELHI: Ahead of the entry of foreign players in multi-brand retail, the government has embarked on ironing out internal trade issues which could interfere in the smooth functioning of multi-brand retail chains. It will set up a committee headed by consumer affairs minister K V Thomas by the end of this month to identify difficulties in multi-brand retail FDI after interacting with state governments and traders.

“We will find an amicable solution to facilitate the entry of multinational retail chains in our country which will bring efficiency and investment in retail space, especially at the back-end,” said food and consumer affairs minister K V Thomas.

“The government will address all issues facing small traders. We will consult all stakeholders once the committee starts its operations,” he said. He said the government is working towards creating a barrier-free common market for agriculture products across the country.

“We have to systematically remove internal controls and restrictions to enable direct marketing between farmers and NGOs, cooperatives and private companies,” he said.