APEDA to Promote Alcoholic Beverage Exports Under ‘Make in India’ Initiative

The global demand for Indian spirits is witnessing significant growth, presenting a promising opportunity for India’s export sector. The Agricultural and Processed Food Export Development Authority (APEDA) is spearheading efforts to promote Indian alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages worldwide, aiming to reach $1 billion in export revenue over the next few years.  

This initiative aligns with the ‘Make in India’ campaign, targeting increased exports of Indian spirits to key international markets. Currently, India ranks 40th globally in alcoholic beverage exports, but with APEDA’s vision, this ranking is set to improve.

In a groundbreaking development, Godawan Single Malt Whisky, a premium artisanal whisky produced in Rajasthan, India, is preparing for its debut in the United Kingdom. This marks a significant milestone for Indian spirits on the global stage. The inaugural batch of Godawan was ceremonially dispatched to the UK by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, alongside notable figures such as Debra Crew, Chief Executive of Diageo Plc, Abhisek Dev, Chairman of APEDA, and Hina Nagarajan, MD & CEO of Diageo India, among other senior officials.

Earlier this year, Godawan Single Malt participated in the prestigious International Food and Drinks Event (IFE) in London, held in March 2024 under the APEDA banner. This event served as a prelude to Godawan’s official UK launch and laid the foundation for its export journey to the UK.

The launch of Godawan in the UK also has positive implications for the local farming community in Alwar, Rajasthan. The whisky’s production utilizes six-row barley, which is locally sourced, creating backward linkages that benefit farmers by enhancing their agricultural income. This initiative reflects the broader vision of boosting rural economies while expanding India’s footprint in the global spirits market.

With APEDA’s sustained efforts and strategic initiatives like Godawan’s UK launch, the future of Indian spirits on the global stage looks bright.