Amazon Seeks E-Commerce Rule Changes in India to Expand Export Capabilities

Amazon has formally requested India's Commerce Ministry to relax foreign direct investment restrictions on cross-border e-commerce exports. The proposed policy exemption WOULD allow the tech giant to purchase goods directly from Indian sellers for international distribution, bypassing current marketplace-only operations.

Flipkart, Walmart's Indian subsidiary, joined Amazon in advocating for regulatory changes during government consultations. The companies argue streamlined export procedures would empower local merchants through global market access while simplifying customs logistics.

Opposition emerged from three trade associations representing small retailers, who accuse both platforms of distorting competition through preferential treatment of large sellers and predatory pricing. These groups maintain existing FDI safeguards prevent monopolistic practices that threaten India's traditional retail ecosystem.