American Bourbon Cheaper Now For Indians, Tariffs Cut From 150% To 50%

Photo: Wikipedia

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI– In a significant move to boost trade ties with the United States, India has slashed import duties on American bourbon whiskey from 150% to 50. The announcement came just ahead of a high-profile bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump, where trade and tariffs were key agenda items.

Bourbon whiskey accounts for approximately 25% of India’s total whiskey imports. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, India imported bourbon worth $2.5 million, with major suppliers including the U.S. ($0.75 million), UAE ($0.54 million), Singapore ($0.28 million), and Italy ($0.23 million). The reduced duty is expected to boost the availability and affordability of American bourbon brands in the Indian market.

The tariff reduction applies specifically to bourbon whiskey, while all other imported alcoholic beverages will continue to attract a 100% duty. This decision aligns with India’s broader efforts to enhance trade relations with the U.S. as both nations aim to increase bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey made primarily from corn (at least 51%) and aged in charred oak barrels, giving it a distinctive smooth and slightly sweet flavor.

Recognized by the U.S. Congress in 1964 as a “distinctive product of the United States,” bourbon is primarily produced in Kentucky and Tennessee. Popular bourbon brands available in India include Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, and Gentleman Jack.