India Cuts Bourbon Whisky Tariffs Amid Trump’s Criticism

India Cuts Bourbon Whisky Tariffs Amid Trump’s Criticism

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 22, 2025

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.

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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.


Tubata Opens in Delhi as a Sensory Playground of Flavours and Design

Tubata Opens in Delhi as a Sensory Playground of Flavours and Design

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2025

Delhi’s culinary landscape has welcomed a new and imaginative entrant with the launch of Tubata in Pitampura, introduced by restaurateur Neeraj Aggarwal, over a decade after he unveiled his first venture, Lotus Leaf.

Tubata is not just a restaurant, it has been envisioned as a sensorial playground and a being inspired by the raw forces of nature. According to the release, it is “a mystical creature born from the elements of air, land, and ocean, where bold flavours, evocative design, and elemental spirit come together in perfect balance.”

Sharing his vision, Aggarwal said, “Tubata is not just a restaurant, it’s a feeling. It’s a space to indulge, to celebrate, to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with something primal, something beautiful. It’s refined, imaginative, and unapologetically distinctive.”

Tubata’s identity draws from the harmony of opposing worlds, with its emblem, the leopard, symbolising grace, mastery, and movement. The interiors reflect lush foliage, marine coral, and fluid natural forms, echoing the philosophy that indulgence is not excess, but alignment with nature’s rhythm.

The restaurant’s design presents a mix of unmatched aesthetics, cosy interiors, and a hint of glamour. It takes guests back to an era of good food and good mood, offering a cosmic play of a bespoke global experience. The multi-cuisine menu has been curated by a culinary team driven by curiosity and craft, reimagining familiar flavours while also introducing innovative creations.

Tubata also evolves with time. By day, it offers a soulful, inviting space for relaxed lunches, conversations, or quiet indulgence. By night, the atmosphere shifts as the lights deepen, the drinks flow, and the space transforms into a lively destination filled with rhythm and celebration.

Aggarwal summarised, “With an identity rooted in evolution, transformation, and sensory delight, Tubata is not your regular restaurant, it’s an experience, vibe and memory. With all ingredients amalgamated together, Tubata will surely give you reason to visit again and again.”


McDonald’s India North & East Celebrates 4th App Anniversary with Special Offers

McDonald’s India North & East Celebrates 4th App Anniversary with Special Offers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 21, 2025

McDonald’s India (North and East) is celebrating the 4th anniversary of its app with a host of exciting offers and daily surprises for customers. Since its launch in 2020, the McDonald’s app has grown into a trusted companion for food lovers, making ordering seamless while offering exclusive deals, easy customisation, and rewards that add more value to every meal.

Over the past four years, the app has become a go-to platform for millions of customers, reflecting their trust and love for the brand. It has not only simplified the dining experience but also enhanced it through loyalty-driven rewards and personalised deals.

Sharing his thoughts on the milestone, Mr. Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East, said, “We are delighted to celebrate the 4th anniversary of the McDonald’s app together with our customers. This milestone is truly a reflection of their trust and love. The special offers are our way of thanking the millions of McDonald’s fans who have made the app a part of their everyday lives. With exclusive daily value offerings, we hope to make this anniversary month a celebration of great taste, everyday value, and the joy of enjoying McDonald’s favourites with friends and family.”

To mark the occasion, McDonald’s is rolling out a month-long celebration filled with app-exclusive offers. Customers can enjoy surprises like Buy 2 Get 1 Free deals, offers such as Buy 2 Burgers and get a Pizza McPuff free, or Buy 2 Medium Fries and get 1 free. From burgers and fries to wraps and soft drinks, these exciting deals give customers more reasons to enjoy their favourites with loved ones.

The anniversary offers will run until 7th September 2025, with fresh surprises every day of the week, ensuring there’s always something new to look forward to.

The McDonald’s App, available on Android and iOS, provides a personalised and convenient way for customers to order dine-in, takeaway, or drive-thru, while also unlocking exclusive offers available only on the app.

So, download the McDonald’s App today and join the celebration!


Far & East at Four Seasons Bengaluru Introduces Unlimited Dimsum Lunch

Far & East at Four Seasons Bengaluru Introduces Unlimited Dimsum Lunch

By Hariharan U

Published on August 21, 2025

Far & East, the Pan-Asian specialty restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, has unveiled its latest culinary experience, the Unlimited Dimsum Lunch. Perched on the 21st floor with sweeping views of the city, the offering transforms weekday lunches into a luxurious mid-day escape.

The menu is designed by Chef Wong Chin Sheong, fondly known as Chef Wong, who brings his mastery of Cantonese cuisine to the table. Guests can enjoy an extensive selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dim sum, along with mains and desserts, making it a complete and indulgent lunch experience.

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Highlights include delicate bites such as Steamed Pork Dumpling and Classic Chicken Shumai, as well as bolder flavours like Sichuan Spicy Chicken Dumpling and Yang Rou Jiao. Comforting options like Steamed Chicken and Water Chestnut Dumpling and Chicken Jiaozi add variety, while artisanal ice creams and sorbets provide a refreshing finish.

The Unlimited Dimsum Lunch is available daily from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm. The experience is more than just dining it’s an invitation to slow down, savour authentic flavours, and enjoy the elegance of Four Seasons hospitality against a panoramic city backdrop

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