Guwahati traders feel the heat as e-commerce platforms take precedence
For the past two months, traders and shopkeepers in Guwahati's bustling commercial hubs, including Fancy Bazar and Paltan Bazar, have been increasingly vocal about boycotting major e-commerce platforms. They contend that the surge in online shopping has led to a noticeable decline in foot traffic and a subsequent drop in their revenue.
"The online giants, who source products directly from factories, are employing aggressive pricing strategies to attract customers. We simply cannot compete with these discounts and still remain viable," said Nekib Saikia, the secretary of the Lakhtokia Merchants' association.
He said store owners in Fancy Bazar, a vital commercial centre, have experienced business losses ranging from 20% to 30%. This decline has ben largely attributed to the growing preference of customers for online shopping platforms and the convenience of quick-commerce services.
"E-commerce platforms have become incredibly diverse, selling everything from electronics and clothing to groceries and meat. It's pervasive. While the govt collects a fair share of revenue from local traders, allowing online platforms to operate without adequate regulation poses a significant threat to our livelihoods," Saikia said.
Prantosh Roy, general secretary of the
All Assam Traders Union
(AATU), too voiced a similar sentiment. Explaining that they have been actively raising public awareness through seminars and meetings across Assam, Roy said thaty have urged the public to exercise caution when relying on e-commerce platforms. "People are often swayed by mere product images online, and this is problematic because there's often no recourse when a product turns out to be faulty," Roy said.
The growth of technology in India has indeed accelerated dramatically, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), an initiative under the ministry of commerce and industry, the number of internet connections in the country had reached 895 million by June 2023, largely fueled by the 'Digital India' programme. IBEF also reported that India's e-commerce sector had achieved approximately $14 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV) during the 2024 festive season, marking a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
Diganta Saikia, who operates an online meat retail business, acknowledged the profound transformation in consumer habits, driven by the rapid technological advancements. "People in major metro cities have grown accustomed to the convenience of doorstep delivery and this trend is now taking hold in Assam as well," he said, highlighting convenience as a primary driver of online purchases.
However, Saikia also noted the increasing competitiveness of the online retail space, with numerous new players entering the market. To remain relevant and retain customer interest, many businesses, including his own, are adopting innovative strategies such as subscription models, personalized services and hyperlocal delivery solutions.
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