A Massive Opportunity for European Whisky: An EU–India Trade Deal Throws Open the Export Market

A lot is happening on the international stage. On one side, the United States keeps threatening new tariffs; on the other, entirely different conversations are taking place. The EU has held promising talks with India that could prove very lucrative for whisky makers. They’ve resulted in a major trade deal.

Until recently, steep duties still applied to exports to India. That’s about to change: under a new trade agreement, import tariffs between India and the EU will be brought in line. This means spirits like whisky can be exported on far more favorable terms. And in the other direction, Indian whisky (and other drinks) can enter the EU at lower cost.

Europe’s spirits industry has welcomed the development. Cutting tariffs from 150% to 40% opens the door to revenue growth, fresh investment, and new jobs across the sector.

It’s good news not only for whisky makers, but also for consumers in both Europe and India. While trade with the United States has taken some heavy hits lately, this agreement opens a door to significant opportunities. By making the Indian market more accessible to European producers, a new playing field emerges.

At the same time, Indian whisky and other spirits aren’t seen primarily as competitors, but rather as a welcome addition for European consumers.

After China, India is the largest market for spirits in the world. With around 1.4 billion people, India is not only the most populous country, but also one of the fastest-growing consumer markets. The nation consumes an enormous volume of spirits.

One of the country’s most popular drinks is whisky, far more widely consumed than wine or beer. If this trade agreement is put to good use, it could mark a historic moment for Europe’s whisky makers.

The exact date when the lower tariffs will take effect has not yet been announced.