The United States is intensifying efforts to increase exports of Kentucky bourbon to India as part of a broader strategy to secure improved market access for American agricultural and manufactured goods. The proposal surfaced during a joint congressional hearing focused on commercial diplomacy and international trade cooperation between the State Department and the Commerce Department.
During the hearing, Republican Congressman Andy Barr of Kentucky encouraged the Commerce Department to support greater sales of American bourbon in India, one of the world’s largest consumers of whiskey. Barr noted that he had recently discussed the issue with US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, emphasizing the potential for stronger trade in American spirits.
Highlighting the popularity of whiskey in India, Barr contrasted Kentucky bourbon with Scotch whisky, jokingly describing Scotch as a symbol of Britain’s colonial past while portraying Kentucky bourbon as a representation of American freedom. His remarks reflected an effort to position bourbon as a stronger competitor in India’s premium liquor market.
David Fogel, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the US and Foreign Commercial Service, said expanding overseas opportunities for American businesses remains one of the agency’s primary responsibilities. He explained that Commerce Department teams regularly assist US companies in entering international markets and work directly with foreign governments to address regulatory and non-tariff barriers that may limit imports.
India also featured prominently in discussions surrounding broader trade negotiations involving American agricultural exports. Lawmakers raised concerns that US producers of commodities such as rice, walnuts, and almonds continue to face challenges from foreign subsidies and market restrictions. Officials noted that Washington is pursuing new trade agreements with India, Japan, and other strategic partners to improve export opportunities.
Caleb Orr, Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs, said the US administration is prioritizing efforts to remove obstacles affecting American farmers and agricultural exporters in key overseas markets. He stressed that economic diplomacy remains focused on creating fairer trading conditions for US businesses.
Officials also reviewed how the State and Commerce departments coordinate their commercial initiatives abroad, while lawmakers discussed staffing shortages and the need for stronger support through the Foreign Commercial Service.
India remains an attractive destination for international liquor companies due to its massive consumer base. However, imported alcoholic beverages are subject to central import duties as well as varying state-level taxes and regulations. These policies have made alcohol market access a recurring topic in trade negotiations. Kentucky bourbon, produced in the United States using at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, remains one of America’s most recognized premium exports.
