Update: A Walmart spokesperson told MediaNama that the company regularly offers inputs to the US and Indian governments on policy issues related to the retail sector and that this is a "past issue". The spokesperson further told that "Walmart has had good consultations with the Government of India, including recent consultations with the Ministry of Commerce, and we appreciate the efforts they are taking to create a strong business environment and its clear commitment to consult with stakeholders on important policy issues. We look forward to further contributing to a vibrant retail ecosystem that supports India’s inclusive economic growth and is consistent with our long term commitment to India.” Earlier: India’s norms on FDI in e-commerce is a “major change and a regressive policy shift”, Walmart had privately told the US government in January this year, reports Reuters citing a two-page representation the firm sent to USTR (United States Trade Representative). The company had also recommended that a six-month deadline extension for implementation of Press Note 2 so they could adjust to these new regulations. It also said that that there was no consultation with foreign e-commerce companies before the Press Note 2 was released on December 26, 2018, while noting that it would have “major implications” for the US e-commerce firms. Walmart also accused the Press Note 2 of focusing “exclusively” on foreign e-commerce companies like Flipkart and Amazon since “significant modifications” to the operating models of marketplace platforms would be required. Walmart further argued in their January representation,…
