Entry routes of foreign retailers in India

The retailing sector in India has undergone significant transformation in the past 10 years. Traditionally, Indian retail sector has been characterized by the presence of a large number of small-unorganized retailers. However, in the past decade there has been development of organized retailing, which has encouraged large private sector player to invest in this sector. Many foreign players have also entered India through different routes. With high GDP growth, increased consumerism and liberalisation of the manufacturing sector, India is being portrayed as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) in retailing. However, at present this is one of the few sectors, which is closed to FDI. Within the country, there has been significant protest from trading associations and other stakeholders against allowing FDI in retailing, yet foreign retailers are entering India through various routes. The present paper exmanies the entry routes of foreign retailers to India.