The US and Australia has joined the European Union in the WTO negotiations pushing the Indian government to reduce its import duties on wine. Currently they are so expensive that consumers across the country cannot afford the wines that they'd like to try. While import duties are supposed to be restricted to 150%, they range from 177.33% to 264% for imported wines. The US is the leading exporter of wines and spirits to India and despite the high duties, its exports have increased by 350% in the last few years.

Sommelier India believes that duties must be reduced to more managable levels so that wines are more accessible. It is not meant to be a drink just for the affluent. With Indian wines improving dramatically each year, we believe that they can stand on their in an globalized market.