India most attractive market for retail investment: Kearney

Providing good growth potential for global retailers amid the economic slowdown, India has emerged as the most alluring market for investment in the retail sector, surpassing the likes of China, Russia and the United Arab Emirates.

India has been ranked as the most attractive nation for retail investment among 30 emerging markets by US-based global management consulting firm A T Kearney.

According to the entity's Global Retail Development Index (GRDI), India is followed by Russia (2), China (3), United Arab Emirates (4) and Saudi Arabia (5).

India was placed at the second spot last year. Similarly, the other four countries in the top five have improved their ranking, with the United Arab Emirates jumping 16 places from previous year's 20th rank.

Noting that "larger, resilient developing countries sit atop the 2009 GRDI as they are most likely to lead the economic recovery," the report said that India has become the most attractive destination for retail investment for the fourth time in five years.

"In India, slower retail sales are causing Indian retailers to delay expansion plans and restructure their operations. But this has opened the window of opportunity for global retailers and many, including Wal-Mart, Carrefour and Tesco, are continuing expansion plans as Indian consumers grow increasingly affluent, brand-conscience and familiar with global retail formats, the report said.