A not-for-profit organization, it represents the rights of Indian retailers.

RAI is involved with retail advocacy,[2][3] organizing conferences, knowledge-sharing initiatives and training programs.

As of 2021, the association represents 500,000 stores across the nation.

[4] It has requested the Government of Maharashtra to allow malls and shopping centres in Maharashtra to operate with the necessary precautions to save employment and improve the economy.

[5] RAI is a member of the Federation of International Retail Associations (FIRA), National Retail Federation, US, which enables knowledge sharing and transfer of international standards and best practice into the Indian retail sector.