{
  "id": 15686186,
  "title": "Exclusive-India probing Pernod, Diageo Scotch imports under India-UK trade pact, sources say",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/20/exclusive-india-probing-pernod-diageo-scotch-imports-under-india-uk",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-10-20T02:07:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Investing.com",
    "slug": "investing-com",
    "url": "https://www.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/exclusiveindia-probingpernod-diageo-scotch-imports-under-indiauk-trade-pact-sources-say-4957842"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "New Delhi, October 19 - Indian tax officials are scrutinizing whether alcohol conglomerates Pernod Ricard and Diageo improperly classified bulk Scotch imports, enabling them to benefit from reduced tariffs under the recently concluded India-UK trade pact, according to five industry sources. This investigation pertains to disputes over import tariffs, a recurring issue for foreign investors in India, with cases like those of Samsung, LG, and Volkswagen. The tax officials' visit to Pernod's India headquarters near New Delhi last week, where they questioned executives about Scotch imports, marks an unexpected and unannounced move. Diageo's Indian subsidiary, United Spirits, also faced a search at its multiple locations last Friday, though the authorities have not specified the reason for the probe. Both companies have responded affirmatively, stating they are cooperating with the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and adhering to local laws. The UK whisky market contributes significantly to India's $65 billion alcohol industry, with Pernod and Diageo being the primary players. The recently implemented trade pact, effective from July 15, lowered import taxes on certain Scotch imports to 75% from 150%. The tax authorities are concerned that bulk Scotch imports might not fall under the scope of this duty relief.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}