Centre aims to build consensus on FDI in multi-brand retail sector: Anand Sharma

LONDON: India's central government is aiming to develop a consensus on foreign direct investment (FDI)in multi-brand retail and a political call is expected soon as it cannot wait for an indefinite time span, said Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma.

Sharma said, “We are trying to build a consensus. Some parties have reservations such as Left which have ideological blinkers and there is a disconnect with the world. We are committed for FDI in retail. It will be a political call.”

The minister visit UK to attend the Global Investment Conference.

In November last year, Centre announced its decision to permit 51% FDI in multi-brand retail. The implementation has been shelved after witnessing strong protest from different political sections consisting key UPA-ally Trinamool Congress.

The government is involved with other stakeholders consisting farmers, industry and community groups.

Meanwhile, Sharma also met with Vodafone CEO Vittorio Colao here. The meeting holds great importance as Vodafone is reeling under the pressure of tax issues in India.