Led by master distillers and artisanal perfumers, India’s luxury exports, from award-winning single malts to traditional natural attars, are gaining recognition in global markets such as London, New York and Paris.
The rise of Indian single malt whisky is a notable success story. Although India has long been the world’s largest whisky-consuming market, it was once viewed mainly as a volume-driven industry. This changed when Bengaluru-based Amrut Distilleries launched its single malt in Glasgow in 2004, putting Indian whisky on the global map.
India’s whisky stands out for its unique climate and terroir. Warmer conditions in Goa, Haryana and the Himalayan foothills accelerate maturation, giving the spirit rich oak, spice and fruit notes. Brands such as Amrut, Paul John, Rampur and Indri have built international reputations through awards and critical acclaim, establishing Indian single malts in the premium segment.
The scale of the shift is particularly striking at home. In 2023, Indian single malts accounted for an estimated 53 per cent of India’s single-malt sales, overtaking imported brands for the first time. Amrut, Paul John, Rampur, Indri and GianChand were among the Indian-origin names driving that change.
The renaissance of Indian craftsmanship
A parallel revolution is taking place in fine fragrance. Long before modern synthetic perfumery took hold, the ancient city of Kannauj in Uttar Pradesh was renowned for its natural attars, produced through traditional deg-bhapka distillation. From Ruh Gulab (rose) to Mitti Attar, these botanical fragrances capture India’s rich perfumery heritage and are now protected under the Geographical Indication system.
Today, new fragrance houses are bringing these heritage techniques and Indian scent traditions to modern luxury consumers. Rahasya, founded by Sachit Sood, Utkarsh Vijayvargiya and Sai Pogaru, draws on contemporary South Asian memories and has entered Selfridges in London, placing Indian fragrance alongside established international luxury names.
The UK–India trade framework directly connects both markets
For the UK, the India-UK trade agreement reduces India’s 150 per cent tariff on Scotch whisky to 75 per cent initially, with the rate set to fall to 40 per cent over 10 years, opening greater access to one of the world’s largest whisky markets. In return, Indian exporters receive wider access to the UK market, with 99 per cent of Indian goods set to benefit from zero or reduced tariffs.
For British Asian entrepreneurs, the framework creates opportunities across premium retail, distribution and cross-border trade. It strengthens a two-way commercial relationship: bringing premium Scotch to India while creating greater opportunities for Indian luxury goods, including spirits, fragrance and traditional products, to reach British and international consumers.
