Retailers suggest a 'one nation, one retail licence' policy to ease compliance

Economic Times
Economic Times
7d ago • 13 views
Indian retailers are advocating for a 'one nation, one retail license' policy to simplify compliance and licensing. This change could significantly ease operational challenges in the growing retail sector.
Retailers suggest a 'one nation, one retail licence' policy to ease compliance
A What happened
During the IndiaEdge 2025 panel, leaders from the Indian retail industry called for a 'one nation, one retail license' policy to simplify the complex licensing requirements currently faced by retailers. Anuj Singh, CEO of Spencer Retail, emphasized the need for a unified system that would allow for digital approvals and time-bound clearances. The retail sector in India, valued at over USD 1.3 trillion, is among the fastest-growing globally and is expected to reach USD 2 trillion by 2030. The panelists noted that while opportunities for growth are abundant, regulatory complexities hinder progress. They suggested that improved communication between the government and retailers could facilitate better compliance and ease of doing business. The call for a single-window clearance system reflects the industry's desire for a more streamlined approach to licensing, which could ultimately drive retail growth across various regions in India.

Key insights

  • 1

    Unified Licensing Proposal: Retailers suggest a single license to ease compliance.

  • 2

    Sector Growth Potential: India's retail market is projected to reach USD 2 trillion by 2030.

  • 3

    Regulatory Challenges: Complex licensing requirements hinder retail operations.

  • 4

    Improved Government Communication: Better dialogue between retailers and government is essential.

Takeaways

The proposal for a unified retail license could significantly simplify compliance for retailers in India, fostering growth in a rapidly expanding market. Addressing regulatory challenges will be crucial for the sector's future.

Topics

Business & Markets Economy World & Politics Policy & Regulation