SCOTCH WHISKY
Prices of premium Scotch set to fall in Delhi after customs duty cut on British spirits
Prices for premium Scotch whiskies in Delhi are expected to decline shortly due to changes in customs duty. The reduction in import duty follows the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between India and the UK. Initially, the duty on British spirits will decrease from 150 to 75 percent, further dropping to 40 percent over the next ten years.
Scotch whisky in Delhi may get cheaper after Diwali as excise department begins price revision
Scotch whisky prices in Delhi could drop by around 7% due to changes in import duties. The new rates will likely affect popular brands like Johnnie Walker and Glenfiddich. Price revisions will be implemented initially in hotels, clubs, and restaurants, followed by retail outlets. Existing inventories must be cleared before new stocks can be sold under revised rates. The anticipated price changes are expected to occur before the wedding season.
Johnnie Walker launches first India-inspired Blue Label festive blend in its 200-year history
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Festive Blend, crafted by the brand's Master Blender Dr Emma Walker, draws on the country's rich culinary heritage and flavour traditions, the company said in a statement.
Govt moves to resolve Scotch tariff dispute under UK trade pact, sources say
India has assured industry executives that it will honor the trade pact with Britain regarding Scotch whisky tariffs. Ongoing investigations into bulk Scotch imports are expected to result in a resolution. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal detailed steps to address concerns over duty concessions for bulk imports. The disagreement centers on customs classifications affecting the whisky industry significantly.
Why is India's probe of Scotch imports from Britain rattling liquor majors?
India's investigation into bulk Scotch whisky imports has triggered the first major trade dispute under the India-UK free trade agreement. The government argues bulk Scotch does not qualify for reduced import tariffs, potentially restoring duties to 150% from 75%. The dispute threatens a $65 billion global whisky market, putting Diageo, Pernod Ricard and Indian liquor makers at odds with customs officials.
Govt to meet liquor firms as domestic giants join foreign peers in Scotch dispute
India's government is holding talks with liquor companies regarding tariff reductions on bulk Scotch imports. Major firms, including Diageo and Pernod, are expressing alarm about the investigation. Approximately 80% of Scotch imports from Britain arrive in bulk for local manufacturing. The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies has warned of adverse effects on domestic production. Companies seek urgent intervention from the government to avoid disruption caused by the tariff issue.
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Tax officials visit Radico Khaitan offices and plant amid probe into bulk Scotch imports under India-UK pact
Tax officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence have visited offices and a manufacturing facility of Radico Khaitan. These actions are part of a broader industry-wide review on bulk Scotch imports. The scrutiny focuses on whether major liquor companies are misclassifying bulk Scotch to reduce tariffs. Radico Khaitan stated that the visits do not affect its financial or operational activities.
India's Scotch probe of Diageo, Pernod undermining India-UK pact benefits, trade group says
The British government said "iconic UK products" like whiskies would benefit from the pact. Indian investigators, however, have privately told companies the reduced rate does not apply to bulk Scotch concentrates, creating the first significant dispute over the free trade agreement since it took effect.
'Ease non-tariff curbs to ensure alcohol enters the market freely'
"The spirit of the free trade agreement is twofold-tariffs and regulations that ensure businesses operate a bit more freely," Ian Duddy, the association's international director, told ET in an interview. "Even with tariffs reduced, the products still get sampled and tested," he said, but added: "Obviously, alcohol and all food products need to be regulated. We're not arguing against that."
India could be among top 5 global markets for Glenfiddich maker as whisky drinkers trade up
India is projected to enter the top five global markets for William Grant & Sons in the coming years. The free trade agreement with the UK, effective since July, is anticipated to enhance demand significantly. Premium and luxury spirit consumption is increasing, particularly for single malts and blended whiskies. The company aims to strengthen its position in these growing segments, especially by collaborating with designers for gifting.
India probing Pernod, Diageo Scotch imports under India-UK trade pact, sources say
Indian tax officials are investigating Pernod Ricard and Diageo for how they classified bulk Scotch imports. These companies may have improperly benefitted from reduced tariffs under a recent trade agreement. Tax inspectors made surprising visits to both companies' offices to gather information about their practices. The investigations are part of a broader scrutiny faced by foreign investors in India.
'Whisky shortage, cheaper imports to weigh on Amrut's sales through 2030'
Amrut Distilleries is facing an inventory shortage as whisky demand continues to exceed production capabilities. The company's managing director Rakshit Jagdale indicated sales may remain flat leading to 2030. Rising imports of cheaper Scotch are also impacting sales of domestic whisky brands, particularly newer blends. Amrut plans to introduce a more affordable single malt and expand its portfolio with blended malt whisky.
From pharma to Scotch whisky, UK has "huge" export potential in India: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal
Speaking at the India-UK JETCO Business Plenary on Monday, Goyal highlighted the complementary nature of the two economies and stressed the need to strengthen economic partnerships to unlock new growth opportunities.
IMFL segment: Premium products share expected to hit 35-36 pc in 3-4 years, says industry
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement, which became effective from July this year, is supporting premiumisation in the domestic spirits market by making bulk Scotch imports more affordable for Indian manufacturers, ISWAI CEO Sanjit Padhi told.
Happy Hours! UK trade pact brings scotch prices down in India
Scotch prices in India have decreased significantly for the first time following the India-UK free trade agreement. Major brands like Johnnie Walker Black Label and J&B are experiencing price reductions in various states. The agreement has halved the tariff on British whisky, leading to these lower prices. Companies are working to submit proposals for price adjustments in other regions as well.
Radico Khaitan flies Rampur, Sangam whiskies into Scotch’s backyard
Radico Khaitan has extended its luxury whisky brands, including Rampur and Sangam, to four major UK airports. The company aims to increase the visibility of its products among international travellers through this expansion. More than 170 million passengers travelled through these airports in 2025, presenting a significant opportunity. Their goal is to build brand presence and recognition for Indian spirits globally.
Eye on India cocktail, Suntory eyes 10-15% stake in Allied Blenders & Distillers
Suntory Holdings, the renowned Japanese beverage company, is in discussions regarding a potential minority investment in Allied Blenders and Distillers. The goal of these talks is to form a strategic alliance that leverages the strengths of both entities within the whisky industry. By acquiring 10-15% of the promoters’ stake, Suntory aims to enhance its footprint in India's booming whisky market, amidst rising competition from other players.
Raise a glass to Scots, Welsh, Irish, English...
Tensions have escalated between England and the Scottish, Northern Irish, and Welsh regarding whisky regulations. England's recent decision to ease whisky protection rules has angered these nations. They are concerned about the implications for their own whisky industries. This situation may revitalize discussions around regional independence movements as a result. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing pressure from these regions over the whisky issue.
Diageo India revamps McDowell's No.1 with premium identity
Diageo India is set to transform its iconic whisky brand, McDowell's No 1, by introducing a new formula that incorporates select imported Scotch, fine Indian malts, and top-grade grain spirits. This initiative seeks to elevate the mass-premium whisky segment, appealing directly to today's discerning consumers. Extensive market research has shaped this innovative relaunch, with a fresh packaging that resonates with millennials who prioritize quality and craftsmanship.
Trump announces end to 10% tariff on Irish whiskey; says 'everybody's been bugging me'
US President Donald Trump announced plans to remove the 10% tariff on Irish whiskey, responding to calls from Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin and others. The move would address an imbalance created after Trump exempted UK whiskey from tariffs in April. Details on when the Irish whiskey tariff would be lifted remain unclear.
Qualitatively 'happy hours': India’s liquor problem is not what you think
India's food regulator has targeted popular alcohol brands for using neutral spirit and misleading ageing claims. Many Indian liquors are artificially flavored neutral spirits, not aged spirits as advertised. High import duties restrict access to better quality foreign spirits for consumers. Government policies and corruption also limit choices for budget-conscious drinkers. This situation prevents Indians from easily accessing superior quality alcoholic beverages.
Thinking long term and enduring volatility is the only way out: 5 mid-caps from different sectors with upside potential of up to 24%
If you are an investor with some skin in the game, be ready to see some underperformance. Why? Because valuation readjustment can take more time in a volatile market. Buying a good business in a correction does not mean its price stops falling the day you buy. It can drift lower, or go nowhere, for a while, as the market takes its time to settle. That is the nature of a volatile phase, and why it is an exercise in patience.
‘I didn’t say which Diwali’: Boris Johnson on India-UK FTA deadline; hails scotch whisky tariff cut from 150% to 75%
In a comical take on the India-UK Free Trade Agreement timeline, Boris Johnson revealed his contentment with the trade deal's finalization. He emphasized notable tariff cuts on Scotch whisky as a highlight. Following Brexit, the trade relationship has flourished, and Johnson envisions even greater economic collaboration across multiple sectors in the future.
Scotch at a discount post UK FTA is only half the story for India's whisky market
India's import duties on Scotch whisky and gin have been halved by a new trade agreement. This change is expected to gradually lower prices for imported premium spirits over time. Indian distillers anticipate improved access to bulk Scotch for blending purposes. Domestic single malt producers remain confident in their quality and market position. The agreement aims to foster greater consumer choice and elevate market quality standards.
Plenty of room for domestic, British Scotch whiskies to prosper in India: Scotch Whisky Association
The strong demographic structure and economic growth prospects in India provide opportunities for both Indian and Scotch whiskies to thrive in the country's whisky market, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). The proposed reduction in import duty as part of a free trade agreement between India and the UK would not only boost Scotch whisky exports but also provide consumers with more options.
India topples France to become UK’s largest Scotch whisky market
The data revealed that India imported 219 million bottles of Scotch compared to France's 205 million last year, growing more than 200% in the past decade. However, despite the double-digit volume growth, Scotch whisky still only comprises 2% of the Indian whisky market. The SWA attributed the reason to high tariffs.
Only brews from Scotland to be called Scotch: Delhi HC
These companies were allegedly selling three local products — Royal Arms, Blue Patrol and Malbros — without sourcing them from the Scotch Whisky Association.
UK hails Scotch whisky 'breakthrough' in India
Britain's SWA has toasted a recent court ruling in India against the use of the terms 'Scotch' and 'Scotland' by three Indian liquor firms.
GI status gives Scotch Whisky new high in India
India has granted GI status to Scotch Whisky, a legal protection that will help prevent the sale of counterfeit products in the Indian market.
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