EU-India FTA boosts spirits trade
spiritsEUROPE welcomes the conclusion of the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a transformational deal for the EU spirits sector that will significantly improve access to one of the world’s most important spirits markets.
Under the agreement, tariffs on EU spirits will be cut by half upon entry into force, followed by a gradual reduction to 40%
“This agreement is a real game changer for our sector,” said spiritsEUROPE director general Mark Titterington.
“Cutting tariffs from 150% to 40% will unlock long-term growth, create new jobs across the value chain, and give Indian consumers greater choice through a complementary, rather than competing, offering.
“The deal benefits both sides: a stronger EU presence will support market diversification, boost revenues, attract investment, and generate downstream employment in India, without displacing domestic production.”
India is the second-largest spirits market globally by volume, after China, and its consumers drink more spirits than beer or wine.
While the market remains primarily whisky-driven, growing demand for quality, authenticity, and premium products means all EU spirits categories stand to gain.
Under the agreement, tariffs on EU spirits will be cut by half upon entry into force, followed by a gradual reduction to 40%.
This represents a step change for the sector, building on a decade in which the value of EU spirits exports to India increased sixfold, despite historically high tariffs and regulatory barriers.
spiritsEUROPE also welcomes the creation of a dedicated EU-India Working Group on Wine and Spirits, which will allow both sides to deepen regulatory dialogue, enhance mutual understanding and address market access concerns.
“The EU-India FTA opens a new chapter for spirits trade,” Mark Titterington added.
“We look forward to working closely with authorities on both sides to ensure swift implementation.
“This agreement demonstrates how strong partnerships and open trade can deliver tangible growth and benefits for both economies.”
Pat Cooney, founder & CEO of Boann Distillery, said: “The EU–India trade agreement opens the door wider to the world’s largest whiskey market.
“India has already shown a strong appetite for premium Irish Whiskey, even with a 150 per cent tariff in place.
“Cutting that barrier is a game-changer. It sends a clear signal that high-quality Irish spirits can compete and win on the global stage.”
