Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma has ruled out building political consensus on the issue of FDI in Retail. Addressing a news conference in New Delhi, he said there is already a strong consensus in favour of FDI in Retail among various stakeholders and that does not necessarily should imply political parties.

Mr. Sharma said Government has honoured its commitment given to parliament last year on seeking consensus on the issue. His Ministry has since held intensive discussion with major farmers' associations, MSMEs, consumer federations and apex industry chambers and all have been in favour of FDI in retail. Consulations were also held with Chief Ministers of 16 states and as many as ten states, including agrarian and representing half of the country, have spoken in favour of the issue.

The Minister said that FDI in Retail is only an enabling policy and the individual states can decide whether or not to roll out the policy as ultimately the state governments will be issuing licenses to retail shops. Urging the Opposition to debate the issue in parliament, Mr. Sharma said the decision on FDI in Retail is just an executive matter and does not need parliament approval. Mr. Sharma clarified that FDI in retail will be initially allowed only in cities with a population of more than ten lakhs.