Mexico tequila tariff negotiations with India, Digi Mart USA News (Guadalajara, Mexico): Mexico is seeking to open a new stage for the international sale of tequila through negotiations with India aimed at reducing the 150% tariff currently imposed on the Mexican spirit. Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said the agreement could be finalized in 2027 following several months of talks between the two governments.
Ebrard explained that the efforts began on the instructions of President Claudia Sheinbaum and that progress has already been made on the terms of reference for the negotiation. He said Indian Commerce Minister, his counterpart, has committed to reducing the tariff to levels below those applied to bourbon imported from the United States.
The announcement was made during a ceremony in Guadalajara, where the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry (CNIT) presented Ebrard with the El Sueño award, a distinction recognizing contributions to the international promotion of tequila. The event brought together representatives of 66 tequila companies whose combined production equals 80% of all tequila.
During the ceremony, industry representatives noted that tequila maintains tariff-free access to the markets of the United States and Europe. They also called for stronger efforts to reach other international destinations.
Roberto Ciprés Cruces, president of the CNIT, acknowledged the importance of including tequila in the federal government’s economic agenda. He also said cooperation between authorities and producers should continue on issues such as trade opening and protection of the denomination of origin.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus and Guadalajara Mayor Verónica Delgadillo also attended the event.
