Indian whiskey makers await reciprocal market access to Australia

Days after Australia gained lower duty access for its high-end wines under the India-Australia interim trade deal, India's alcoholic beverage makers said they are still waiting for reciprocal access for their products. 

- Dilasha Seth

The two governments are working to set up a joint working group over the next few months to iron out differences over market access.

The issue with alcohol pertains to maturation rules, where Australian customs laws allow only those whiskies and spirits that have been matured for at least two years. However, the Indian side has been pressing for removal of this condition, arguing that Indian whisky matures faster due to the warmer climate and a twoyear maturation results in 10% loss due to evaporation.