Andhra Pradesh is seeking to expand its role in Walmart’s domestic and global supply chains by encouraging the retail giant to increase sourcing from the state’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women-led self-help groups (SHGs) and local artisans.
The proposal was raised by Andhra Pradesh IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh during a meeting with Paul Dyck, Walmart’s Senior Vice President for Global Government Affairs and Business Diplomacy, on the sidelines of the 31st CII Partnership Summit.
The state wants Walmart and Flipkart to widen their procurement from Andhra Pradesh beyond seafood and pharmaceuticals to include products made by local MSMEs, women-led groups and artisans.
Two proposals to expand local sourcing
Lokesh proposed that Walmart bring its global buyers to a dedicated MSME sourcing event in Andhra Pradesh, focusing on seafood and textiles. The initiative would build on the Walmart Growth Summit held in New Delhi, which connected Indian suppliers with the retailer’s international buying teams.
He also suggested creating a dedicated channel within Walmart and Flipkart’s domestic and international supply chains for products made by women-led SHGs and local artisans. These products are marketed under the state’s Swayam AP and Lepakshi brands.
Walmart’s existing presence in Andhra Pradesh
Walmart is already among the largest buyers of shrimp from Andhra Pradesh, sourcing more than 65 million pounds annually. The company also procures textiles, engineering goods and pharmaceutical products from the state.
Flipkart’s operations in Andhra Pradesh have generated more than 28,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities. Its infrastructure includes over 100 logistics hubs covering approximately 12 lakh square feet, along with 0.33 million square feet of wholesale space.
Under a memorandum of understanding with the Andhra Pradesh MSME Corporation and the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub, more than 3,200 MSMEs have received training. Over 900 of these businesses are now selling through Walmart and Flipkart marketplaces.
Dyck said Walmart would examine the state government’s proposals, potentially opening up further opportunities for local producers to access larger markets.
