G20 non-tariff barrier removal to boost Indian alcohol exports: CIABC

The The removal of nontariff restrictions in G20 countries, such as the requirement for whiskey to be at least three years old, will aid in boosting India's exports of alcoholic drinks, according to the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), the industry's leading trade association.

According to CIABC Director-General Vinod Giri, the G20 nations not only import 80% of the world's alcoholic drinks but also permit higher product prices and larger operational margins.

However, India has a miniscule share of that pie, accounting for just 0.1 per cent of their imports."It is therefore a massive opportunity not only from the volume point of view but also from the value and profits. G20 nations have great interest in it. While allowing them better access to our markets, we must ensure a return access by demanding the removal of non-tariff barriers such as minimum maturation conditions for whisky that these countries have put up to protect their own industry," Giri said.