Whisky enthusiasts in India are in for a treat as the impending India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is poised to significantly reduce the prices of imported Scotch whiskies like 100 Pipers and Chivas Regal. Pernod Ricard India, a major French liquor company, confirmed that the FTA will enable them to lower prices for Indian consumers. This move comes as the 150% import duty on bottled-in-origin (BIO) premium Scotch whiskies is expected to be halved to 75% initially, then gradually decreasing to 40% over the next decade. This reduction in duties will directly translate into lower retail prices across most states, making these high-end spirits more accessible to a broader consumer base.

The FTA is being hailed as a “positive step for both the industry and consumers,” with projections indicating a substantial boost to Scotch whisky imports. India has already surpassed France in volume of Scotch whisky imports, with 192 million bottles imported in 2024, up from 167 million in 2023. Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, believes the duty cuts will be “transformative” and could drive an increase of £1 billion in Scotch whisky exports to India over the next five years, potentially creating 1,200 jobs across the UK. This optimistic outlook is echoed by other major players like Diageo PLC, who also announced plans to reduce prices of their Scotch whisky brands in India post-FTA implementation, signaling a competitive market and greater affordability for consumers.