India Reduces Tariffs on American Bourbon Whiskey from 150% to 50%

India Reduces Tariffs on American Bourbon Whiskey from 150% to 50%

India has significantly reduced the import duty on America's popular bourbon whiskey, slashing it from 150% to 50%. This move, announced by the Department of Revenue on February 13, comes just ahead of a crucial meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, where trade and tariffs were major topics of discussion.

In preparation for the bilateral talks, India has signaled a willingness to negotiate trade deals with the US by implementing major tariff cuts on several American products, including bourbon whiskey. The customs duty reduction, a 66.6% drop, applies exclusively to bourbon whiskey, while other imported alcoholic beverages will continue to face a 100% import duty. However, a 50% agricultural cess, imposed under the Agricultural Infrastructure and Development Cess (AIDC), will also apply to bourbon.

American bourbon whiskey, which accounts for approximately 25% of all liquor imports into India, is a key player in the market. In 2023-24, India imported bourbon worth USD 2.5 million, with the US leading exports at USD 0.75 million, followed by the UAE, Singapore, and Italy.

During a press conference ahead of his meeting with PM Modi, President Trump praised the Indian leader, calling him a "great leader" and stating that "we're going to make some wonderful trade deals for India and the US." After their bilateral talks, the two leaders held another press conference where trade was again a central topic. When asked who was the tougher negotiator, Trump humorously remarked, "He (PM Modi) is a much tougher negotiator than me. He is a much better negotiator than me. There is not even a contest."

A joint statement issued by both nations revealed plans to more than double the two-way trade to USD 500 billion by 2030, with the intention to create a bilateral trade agreement aimed at reducing duties and improving market access on both sides.

What Is Bourbon Whiskey?

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey primarily made from corn, known for its mild, sweet taste. It is aged in charred oak barrels and must contain at least 51% corn to achieve its signature flavor. Like Scotch whiskey, which is restricted to production in Scotland, bourbon must be made in the United States.

In 1964, the US Congress officially recognized bourbon as a "distinctive product of the United States." The largest bourbon distilleries are located in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Popular bourbon brands available in India include Jack Daniel's, Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark, Gentleman Jack, and Old Forester

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