India has slashed tariffs on bourbon whisky imports from 150% to 100%, a move that will benefit American liquor brands like Jim Beam. The tariff revision, which was notified on February 13 but gained media attention later, comes amid intensifying criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding India's trade policies.

Trump, who recently met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House, has repeatedly called out India’s high import duties as unfair to American businesses. He also announced a reciprocal tariff policy targeting countries imposing heavy levies on U.S. exports.

The new structure imposes a basic customs duty of 50% with an additional 50% levy, bringing the total duty to 100% for bourbon whisky. Other imported liquor products remain unchanged at 150% tariffs.

Experts believe the decision reflects India's willingness to adjust trade policies for strategic partners. Pratik Jain, partner at PwC India, noted that the move could signal India’s openness to tariff revisions for key allies.

India’s $35 billion spirits market is home to major global players like Diageo and Pernod Ricard, who have long criticized the country’s high import tariffs. Vinod Giri, Director General of the Brewers Association of India, stated that while bourbon whisky holds symbolic trade value, the decision is likely aimed at easing tensions with the U.S. and preventing retaliatory trade measures.

As India seeks deeper integration into the global economy, the reduction in bourbon whisky tariffs may be the first step in broader trade realignments.