The Indian Malt Whisky Association (IMWA) and the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) have signed a cooperation agreement at The Imperial Hotel in New Delhi, witnessed by Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney. The deal was signed by Major General (Dr) Rajesh Chopra, AVSM (Retd), director general of the IMWA, and Ian Duddy, international director of the SWA.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration through the sharing of information, knowledge, and industry practices. It focuses on sustainability, the protection and promotion of each category, and engagement on regulatory matters of mutual interest. It also covers legal protection, product authenticity, intellectual property infringements, and the promotion of responsible consumption.
“This agreement marks an important milestone in the evolution of India’s malt whisky industry and its engagement with established global whisky traditions,” said Chopra. “Our partnership with the Scotch Whisky Association creates an opportunity to exchange expertise, strengthen product authenticity and promote responsible, sustainable industry practices.”
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READ THE STORYHe added: “By working together on shared priorities, we can build greater trust in our respective categories while supporting the long-term growth and international recognition of Indian malt whisky.”
The signing follows the entry into force of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), commonly known as the Free Trade Agreement. The CETA came into effect on 15 July 2026, marking a significant milestone in UK–India economic ties.
Under the deal, India will cut tariffs on Scotch from 150% to 75%, with another drop to 40% after 10 years. The reduction opens fresh avenues for bilateral trade between the two markets.
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India remains a key growth market for Scotch. Exports to India were worth £286 million (US$380.6m) in 2025.
The IMWA was formed to safeguard and advance India’s malt whisky sector. The association was founded on 8 July 2024 and officially launched on 20 March 2025, with members including Amrut Distilleries, John Distilleries, Radico Khaitan, Piccadilly Agro, Diageo India, and Alcobrew.
Those producers carry considerable weight within the category. Collectively, the association’s current members account for more than 75% of malt whisky production revenue across the country.
Earlier in 2026, the body took further steps to protect provenance. The IMWA introduced a new certification hologram to identify Indian single malts that meet the required standards.
The pact brings together two distinctive whisky traditions and reflects a shared commitment to protecting product integrity as bilateral trade continues to evolve.
