Gujarat is formulating a retail trade policy.

Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka already have such policies for retailers.

In the wake of the approval of the Model Shops and Establishments Act, as well as increased competition from online retailers, the trading community in Gujarat wanted a state-specific policy for development and protection of the retail trade sector, especially the unorganized retail trade segment.

Traders belonging to unorganized retail say they are facing tough competition from deep-pocketed organized retail giants and want institutional support in the form of a dedicated policy which will help small retailers survive amid the fierce competition.

As a first step to creating the retail policy, the state government has sought suggestions from industry associations such as the Retail Trade Association of India and the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These trade bodies have been asked to come up with suggestions before October 15, 2016.

A meeting will also be convened in the second half of this month to consider suggestions made by industry representatives.

The policy is under consideration. There will be interactions with various stakeholders and certain issues need to be debated. After the consultation process, the policy will be taken up for approval.