Finalization of multi-brand retail FDI may take time: K V Thomas

29 Sep 2011 Evaluate

The Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister K V Thomas indicated that the policy which seeks to allow 51% of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail will take some more time, because of the inter-ministerial differences.

K V Thomas said that there were some inter-ministerial differences. It might take some time for it to get approved. Earlier, the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also indicated that the policy may be delayed, on September 28, and the sector would be open only after the political harmony, indicating his concern for the small traders and kirana stores.

K V Thomas said the food ministry was formulating the conditions needed for allowing FDI in multi-brand retail. ‘The concern is not only about the percentage of FDI being approved in India but also to protect the interests of the small trading community and shopkeepers in remote villages,' he added.

With the reference to the discussions with the certain consumer organizations and traders in Mumbai, to state that the some international companies were stocking food material, which may lead to further increase in prices. Thomas said, ‘this is a big concern for us.'

The global retail giant Walmart India president Raj Jain, said that the US retail major would step up its investments significantly once multi-brand retail was opened. The global retail giant has been waiting for entering the India’s retail market; presently it is in 50:50 joint venture with the Bharti group for a wholesale business. 

India already had allowed 100% FDI in cash and carry segment and 51% FDI in single brand business. However, government has protected the multi-brand retail as this segment is political sensitive. Recently, government’s committee of secretaries recommended 51% FDI in multi-brand retail, with many conditions.

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