Government Vows to Protect Small Retailers from E-commerce Giants

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has pledged to safeguard the interests of 100 million small retailers against competition from major e-commerce companies. Goyal criticized e-commerce business models and stressed India's commitment to protecting small stores, while highlighting US-India collaborations on critical minerals and supply chain resilience.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal declared on Wednesday that the government will protect the interests of 100 million small retailers facing stiff competition from major e-commerce players.

Last month, Goyal criticized e-commerce companies, questioning business models that have negatively impacted small retailers nationwide.

"I assure you that we will continue to work with you to meet the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians for a better life and future, the aspirations of 140 million farming families, and the aspirations of 100 million small retailers and mom-and-pop stores, which have vanished from the U.S. landscape but which we are striving to protect," he emphasized.

Goyal addressed members of the India-US Business Council, noting that the US-India CEO Forum will convene on October 2-3 in Washington to advance their commercial dialogue.

The minister also highlighted the mutual concern for critical minerals shared by both nations, promoting self-reliance within the sector. "Let us work towards ensuring critical minerals, a vital element of our partnership, contribute to a resilient supply chain. We each have much to offer," he stated.

Goyal reiterated that e-commerce companies are encroaching on the high-value, high-margin products that are essential for the survival of small mom-and-pop stores.

(With inputs from agencies.)