How is CAIT Conference Addressing India's Rs 140 Lakh Crore Retail Trade?
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Synopsis
As e-commerce companies threaten India's retail trade, the CAIT is organizing a national conference to combat these challenges. With prominent leaders and key stakeholders in attendance, this event aims to strategize against unethical practices, ensuring the integrity of a sector worth over Rs 140 lakh crore annually.
Key Takeaways
- CAIT is organizing a national conference to protect India's retail sector.
- The event will feature key trade leaders and stakeholders.
- Strategies will be developed to combat foreign e-commerce companies.
- The conference aims to unify various sectors against unethical practices.
- CAIT represents over 90 million small businesses in India.
New Delhi, May 11 (NationPress) As the competition from e-commerce and quick commerce platforms intensifies in India's dynamic retail sector, which is valued at over Rs 140 lakh crore annually, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) announced it will host a national conference next week.
This significant event, scheduled for May 16, will feature over 100 prominent trade leaders from across the nation, with former Union Minister Smriti Irani anticipated to deliver the keynote address.
According to CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal, the gathering will not only focus on trade leaders but will also include advocates of Swadeshi products, transport representatives, small industry stakeholders, MSME delegates, consumer advocacy groups, women entrepreneurs, farmers, startups, employees, and various other trade associates.
The collective aim is to develop a cohesive strategy to unveil the harmful agendas of foreign-funded corporations and initiate a nationwide awareness movement against them.
CAIT National President B.C. Bhartia emphasized the importance of uniting various trade and industry sectors on a single platform to confront these companies directly.
He highlighted that these companies have already inflicted significant damage on key sectors including mobiles and accessories, FMCG, consumer durables, kirana stores, electronics, toys, garments, apparel, footwear, food services, and hospitality, and are now seeking to expand their reach in the Indian market.
Bhartia asserted that it is crucial to stand against the unethical business practices of these firms to safeguard the integrity and autonomy of India’s retail landscape.
CAIT believes that this conference will serve as a pivotal step toward launching a comprehensive nationwide awareness and protest initiative based on the strategies discussed during the conference.
Representing more than 90 million small businesses nationwide, CAIT aims to develop strategies and mobilize a grassroots movement against the alleged unethical and illegal practices of these e-commerce entities.
Point of View
It’s imperative to recognize the growing concerns surrounding India's retail sector. The CAIT's initiative reflects a collective effort to safeguard local businesses from the aggressive expansion of foreign e-commerce entities. This conference is not just a reaction; it's a proactive step towards ensuring that India's retail landscape remains fair and sustainable.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the CAIT conference?
The CAIT conference aims to address the challenges posed by e-commerce companies to India's retail sector and develop strategies to protect local businesses.
Who will attend the CAIT conference?
The conference will host over 100 trade leaders, proponents of Swadeshi products, representatives from various sectors, and stakeholders from small industries and MSMEs.
When is the CAIT conference scheduled?
The CAIT conference is scheduled for May 16.
What are the expected outcomes of the conference?
The conference aims to formulate a unified strategy to combat unethical practices by foreign-funded companies and launch a nationwide awareness campaign.
How many businesses does CAIT represent?
CAIT claims to represent over 90 million small businesses across India.
