Retail Industry slams Government inquiry into retail sector

The Retail Industry has slammed a Federal Government’s decision to hold an inquiry into the impact of overseas online sales on Australian stores.

The government has ordered a Productivity Commission inquiry into the impact of globalisation on the retail sector, including the growth of online sales, with the report due for completion in 2011.

The commission will also conduct a compliance campaign to ensure GST and customs duty concessions for imports worth $1,000 or less are not being abused or exploited.

The retail giants have attacked the move, labelling it as a further sign of the government’s inaction as traditional retailers struggle to spark sales amid the burgeoning online retail sector.

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