Context:
According to the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR) 2025 report , India has emerged as the fastest-growing alcohol market in the world for the first half of 2025 , registering a 7% increase in total alcohol volume . This marks the third consecutive year that India has topped global alcohol market growth among 20 major economies, reflecting the country’s rising consumption and economic momentum.
Key Highlights
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Total Growth: Alcohol consumption in India rose 7% (January–June 2025).
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Top Segment: Indian whisky drove the market, growing by 7% and crossing 130 million 9-litre cases sold.
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Other Categories:
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Vodka: +10%
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Rum: +2%
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Gin & Genever: +3%
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Beer: +7%
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Wine: Largely stable
Trends Shaping the Market
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Premiumisation: Demand for high-end and luxury spirits grew 8% in both volume and value.
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Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Beverages: Surged 11% , led by urban consumers seeking convenience and variety.
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Drivers: Expanding middle class, higher disposable income, and growing acceptance of social drinking culture.
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Regional Patterns: Southern states are seeing rising popularity of flavoured vodka and brandy , indicating youth-driven experimentation.
Global Position and Future Outlook
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Global Ranking: India is projected to overtake Japan by 2027 and Germany by 2033 in total alcohol volume, entering the world’s top five alcohol-consuming nations .
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Global Leaders: China, USA, Brazil, and Mexico currently lead.
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Industry Insight: IWSR’s Asia-Pacific Head Sarah Campbell called India a “ global hotspot for the alcohol industry ” due to its rapid market expansion and evolving consumer preferences.
Exam-Oriented Facts
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Report: IWSR Global Beverage Trends 2025
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Growth: +7% total volume (fastest globally)
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Indian Whisky Sales: 130 million 9-litre cases
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RTDs: +11%; Premium segment: +8%
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Future Projection: To surpass Japan by 2027, Germany by 2033
Month: Current Affairs - November 07, 2025
Category: Indian Economy / Industry & Market Trends