Indian Malt Whisky Association launched

In a landmark development for India's alcoholic beverage industry, the Indian Malt Whisky Association (IMWA) has been officially launched to preserve, promote and protect the country’s rich malt whisky heritage. Incorporated in July 2024, IMWA positions India alongside global whisky associations such as the Scotch Whisky Association, Irish Whiskey Association, and Japanese Spirits & Liquor Whisky Association.

As the sole representative body for the Indian malt whisky industry, IMWA includes prominent producers like John Distilleries, Amrut Distilleries, Radico Khaitan and Piccadily Agro. The association aims to define and establish Indian malt whisky as a premium category worldwide by ensuring high-quality production standards, regulatory frameworks, and intellectual property protection.

At the launch, Major Gen (Dr) Rajesh Chopra, AVSM (Retd), the Founder and Director General of IMWA, emphasised the need for strict guidelines, certification marks, and geographical indications (GI) to maintain the authenticity of Indian malt whisky. The association has set strict criteria for Indian single malts, including the use of 100 percent malted barley, copper pot stills, and a minimum three-year ageing period in oak barrels.

IMWA’s leadership includes industry veterans such as Paul P. John, Chairman & Managing Director, John Distilleries; Rakshit N Jagdale, Chairman & MD, Amrut Distilleries; Abhishek Khaitan, the MD of Radico Khaitan; and Akhil Dada, Chairman of Piccadily Agro Industries. Their collective vision is to establish India as a global leader in luxury malt whiskies while ensuring fair trade policies and international recognition.

The association also aims to combat the misrepresentation of inferior products as Indian single malts and will collaborate with government authorities to enforce standards. IMWA members are committed to producing world-class malts that can compete globally while promoting ‘Made in India’ brands.

With a mission to safeguard the integrity of Indian malt whisky, drive premiumisation, and foster industry growth, IMWA is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian whisky on the global stage.