Lower tariffs via EU-India Trade Agreement expected to open the world’s largest whiskey market to premium Irish producers.
The Irish whiskey sector is preparing for a significant lift following the conclusion of the EU–India trade agreement, which industry figures say could reshape global prospects for distillers of all sizes.
The deal is seen as a long‑awaited breakthrough in a market where appetite for premium spirits has grown rapidly but where tariffs have remained among the highest in the world.
“This agreement gives the industry momentum at a time when it’s badly needed, and it reinforces confidence in the long‑term growth story for Irish whiskey beyond any single market”
India is already the largest whiskey market by volume, and Irish producers have been steadily gaining recognition there despite the long‑standing 150% import duty. Industry executives say the reduction of that barrier could accelerate growth in a way not seen since the US revival of Irish whiskey in the early 2000s.
“This is genuinely positive news for Irish whiskey and comes at a critical moment for the sector,” said Pat Cooney, founder and chief executive of Boann Distillery.
He is one of several producers who see the agreement as a chance to restore momentum after a turbulent period marked by shifting consumer trends and uncertainty in some established markets.
Whiskey galore
Boann Distillery is one of a new wave of Irish producers that has invested in international expansion from an early stage. The family‑owned distillery in Co Meath produces the Whistler whiskey range alongside Silks Irish Dry Gin and has built a global footprint that now reaches close to 70 markets.
Cooney said Boann’s strategy of diversification positions the company to take advantage of improved access to India.
“We made a conscious decision three years ago to diversify our export markets, and today we ship to close to 70 countries worldwide. That strategy was about resilience, and this deal underlines why it matters.”
While Boann is a standout example, many distilleries across Ireland – from long‑established players to emerging craft producers – are likely to benefit as tariffs fall and premium categories gain more visibility among India’s expanding middle class.
Boost for a growing industry
The Irish whiskey sector has undergone a revival over the past decade, with new distilleries, increased investment and rising international recognition. Yet the industry has also faced headwinds, including supply chain pressures and softening demand in some core markets.
Producers like Cooney believe the EU–India agreement offers renewed certainty and a long‑term growth avenue that could support investment across the sector.
“This agreement gives the industry momentum at a time when it’s badly needed, and it reinforces confidence in the long‑term growth story for Irish whiskey beyond any single market,” Cooney said.
Cooney said that Boann’s focus on craftsmanship and quality will resonate strongly as market access improves. “We believe the quality, provenance and craft behind Boann whiskeys will strongly resonate with new customers in India.”
Top image: Pat Cooney, founder and CEO, Boann Distillery
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