Foreign investors, Indian retailers to join hands against e-commerce draft

Commerce ministry may soon restart discussions with all stakeholders before finalising policy

The government’s draft e-commerce policy is likely to face a major hurdle, with foreign investors set to join hands with domestic retailers and traders against it. 

The broad contours of the policy, discussed with stakeholders, have come under criticism for being protectionist and one-sided in favour of big players. Battle lines are hardening with different interest groups facing off. Foreign investors are rushing to secure their investments, totaling $75 billion (Rs 5.3 trillion in current exchange rates) invested over the past decade. 

Sources said the commerce ministry could soon restart discussion with all stakeholders in the e-commerce eco-system, to incorporate