# Scotch Whisky Association Requests Fssai Reconsider Sampling Rules

> Scotch Whisky Association asks India to drop sampling tests for imported spirits under new trade deal.
- Title: Scotch Whisky Association Requests Fssai Reconsider Sampling…
- Summary: Scotch Whisky Association asks India to drop sampling tests for imported spirits under new trade deal. The Scotch Whisky Association wants India's FSSAI to…
- Keywords: scotch whisky association, fssai, uk india fta, import duties, scotch whisky, india, whisky, Scotch, Association, Requests, Reconsider, Sampling
- Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/liquor/ease-non-tariff-curbs-to-ensure-alcohol-enters-the-market-freely/articleshow/135100157.cms
- Author: Ratna Bhushan
- Published: 2026-10-21T19:41:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: scotch whisky association, fssai, uk india fta, import duties, scotch whisky, india, whisky
## Scotch Whisky Association Requests Fssai Reconsider Sampling Rules
The Scotch Whisky Association has requested New Delhi to reconsider sampling and testing requirements for imported Scotch whiskies in India.

> The spirit of the free trade agreement is twofold-tariffs and regulations that ensure businesses operate a bit more freely
## UK-India FTA Halved Tariffs on Scotch
The UK-India free trade agreement, effective July 15, reduced import duties on Scotch whisky and gin in India from 150% to 75%.
## Fssai Requires Sampling for Imports
Food Safety & Standards Authority of India mandates sampling and testing under its Food Import Clearance System integrated with customs.
## Scotch Whisky Association Demands Reciprocity
The association argues Scotch's high standards and secure supply chain mean it doesn't need regular sampling and testing in India.

> Scotch is produced to very, very high standards in Scotland and comes from a very secure supply chain
## India's Growing Scotch Market
India is the largest market by volume for Scotch whisky, with 286 million in value in 2025.
## Tax Challenges for Importers
Multiple state-level taxes on alcohol create complex compliance challenges for Scotch whisky importers in India.
## Key takeaway

The Scotch Whisky Association wants India's FSSAI to stop mandatory sampling and testing of imported Scotch whiskies to align with the UK-India free trade agreement.