DGFT’s E-commerce Export Plan Criticized by CAIT for Impact on Small Businesses
CAIT Criticizes DGFT’s Move Favoring E-commerce, Urges Immediate Action.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has expressed strong disapproval of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade’s (DGFT) recent initiative promoting e-commerce exports.
CAIT fears this plan could harm small businesses and manufacturers in various districts.
National Secretary of CAIT, Suresh Sonthalia, labeled the DGFT’s move as potentially ‘suicidal’ for local businesses.
He emphasized the lack of an established e-commerce policy and regulations, which could further empower the controversial business practices of e-commerce giants.
Sonthalia pointed out the ongoing legal challenges and investigations faced by foreign e-commerce companies by agencies like the Competition Commission of India (CCI).
He argued that DGFT’s support could inadvertently legitimize these companies’ operations, despite their contentious business methods.
CAIT acknowledges the benefits of e-commerce for exports but insists on a legal framework for e-commerce operations.
They highlighted the absence of stakeholder consultations and discussions in the Board of Trade before DGFT’s announcement.
CAIT member and Board of Trade participant Mr. Khandelwal was not consulted on this decision.
The organization has appealed to Union Commerce Minister Shri Piyush Goyal to enforce an e-commerce policy and rules urgently.
CAIT suggests that DGFT’s initiative should only proceed once these policies and regulations are in place.
This developmen reflects the ongoing tension between traditional retail sectors and the burgeoning e-commerce industry in India.
