CAIT Kashmir welcomes e-commerce amendments, calls them boost for local retailers

Srinagar, September 11: The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Kashmir Chapter has welcomed the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, describing the amendments as a significant step towards fair competition, price transparency and protection of local retailers.

In a statement issued on Friday, CAIT Kashmir Chapter President Farhan Kitab said the strengthened regulatory framework addresses long-standing concerns related to digital commerce, including deceptive pricing practices and the need for a level playing field for traditional retailers and local businesses.

“This is not merely a regulatory amendment; it is a much-needed step toward restoring trade dignity and ensuring that the survival of local retailers is not compromised by unfair digital practices. Kashmir’s shopkeepers, wholesalers and neighbourhood businesses are the backbone of the local economy. They deserve a fair opportunity to compete, grow and sustain employment,” Kitab said.

The Chapter said the amendments could help strengthen local markets and restore confidence among retailers, wholesalers and neighbourhood businesses that have faced growing competition from online platforms.

Focus on price transparency

CAIT Kashmir welcomed stricter provisions concerning price reductions and mandatory disclosure of the “prior price”, defined as the lowest price at which a product was sold during the preceding 30 days.

It said the requirement would help curb misleading discount claims and artificial pricing practices that can disadvantage traditional retailers.

The Chapter also welcomed measures concerning algorithmic search manipulation and the prominent labelling of sponsored listings, saying these could provide local MSMEs with a fairer opportunity to compete online against larger digital players.

Import and country-of-origin disclosures

The Chapter further welcomed mandatory disclosure of importer details and the country of origin of imported goods.

According to CAIT Kashmir, greater disclosure would improve transparency, help consumers make informed purchasing decisions and promote fair competition for domestic traders.

The organisation said local retailers have faced prolonged economic challenges, including disruptions, declining purchasing power and competition from heavily discounted online platforms.

It said the amendments provide an opportunity to restore greater balance between digital commerce and traditional retail.

“Digital commerce must grow, but it cannot grow at the cost of millions of small traders. Technology should expand opportunities, not become a tool for market domination. The new rules must be implemented in letter and spirit, with effective monitoring and strict action against violations,” Kitab said.

CAIT Kashmir urged the government to ensure transparent, practical and trader-accessible implementation of the amended rules, while taking into account the concerns of local retailers and MSMEs while framing enforcement guidelines.

The Chapter reiterated its support for measures aimed at promoting fair competition, consumer welfare, transparency and sustainable growth of Kashmir’s retail sector.