Amazon Seeks Export-Only FDI Exemption | Arabian Post

Amazon has approached the Commerce Ministry with a proposal to modify foreign direct investment rules by creating a carve-out for export transactions. The company is requesting permission to purchase goods directly from Indian sellers for overseas sales, a departure from the longstanding policy that restricts foreign e-commerce firms to pure marketplace operations.

The policy currently prohibits platforms like Amazon and Walmart-owned Flipkart from holding inventory or selling directly to consumers, aiming to protect small retailers by ensuring a level playing field. Amazon’s pitch emphasises that an export exemption would benefit small Indian sellers by streamlining customs procedures and improving access to international markets. The company adds that it has facilitated US$13 billion in cumulative exporter earnings since 2015 and targets US$80 billion by 2030.

From the Commerce Ministry’s internal documents, it is clear that no decision has been made yet. Any policy adjustment must strictly safeguard the domestic retail market by clearly delineating goods intended solely for export from those that could be sold locally.

The move faces strong resistance. Three industry groups, representing small retailers, voiced concerns during the meeting that Amazon—and Flipkart, which also attended—would gain unfair advantages through preferential arrangements and heavy discounting, further marginalising small businesses.

Amazon and Flipkart did not offer comment at the time, and the Commerce Ministry has not yet responded publicly to media queries.

This development takes place against the backdrop of India’s rapidly expanding e-commerce space, valued at approximately US$125 billion in 2024 and projected to swell to US$345 billion by 2030. Meanwhile, foreign e-commerce operators, particularly U. S.-based Amazon and Flipkart, have long contended that the inventory-based model they use globally is impeded in India by FDI restrictions—restrictions designed to prevent foreign platforms from influencing pricing or favouring affiliated sellers.

Amazon’s request interlinks with broader efforts in the export ecosystem. Earlier this month, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations agreed to sign an MoU with Amazon to support exporters via cross-border e-commerce, including training, compliance assistance and market access support.

The issue also ties into wider trade dynamics. U. S.–India trade tensions remain unresolved, and Amazon’s proposal adds complexity to ongoing discussions. Modifying FDI norms for the export segment could influence negotiations and set precedents for how e-commerce platforms operate within the country.

As exporters grapple with global headwinds, including rising tariffs in key sectors, the government is evaluating how regulatory changes could facilitate global access without dismantling protections for domestic retail.