Santo Domingo.- Local retailers view the massive purchase of items via Internet a threat for national companies and state coffers because the items are delivered right to the buyer’s residence as many shoppers prefer, and faster and cheaper in many cases.

Organized commerce argues that the imports via that route, of fewer than 200 dollars, are tax free and that only pay shipping and handling, which in their view is unfair competition.

The items consumers buy the most via the Web are dress articles, electronic articles, software, office materials and even medicines are also available locally.

National Commercial Companies Association (ONEC) president Pedro Perez González says retailers acknowledge that consumers are the ones who benefit when they buy those products at prices lower than in the local market, but notes that it jeopardizes commerce and the Government.

He said added to the fact that those transactions don’t contribute taxes is their negative effect on the local demand for products that do pay taxes.

Perez said that while ONEC doesn’t oppose purchases by Internet, it does demand  competition under the same game rules.