What are the current import duties on European alcoholic beverages in India?

India imposes significant import duties on European alcoholic beverages, which vary by product type but generally include a basic customs duty, additional duties, and state-level taxes. For spirits like whisky and gin, total duties can exceed 150%, while wines and beers face similarly high tariffs. These duties are part of India's protectionist trade policies aimed at supporting domestic producers. The high costs make European drinks expensive for Indian consumers, limiting market access. European firms argue these duties are prohibitive and hinder trade growth. Recent discussions highlight fears that sustained high duties could disrupt supply chains and affect availability. Understanding these duty structures is crucial for businesses navigating the Indian market, as they impact pricing, competitiveness, and import strategies.

📖 Read the full article: European drinks firms urge India to ease import duties amid supply fears - The Drinks Business