Major global spirits and beer companies, including Diageo, Pernod Ricard, Heineken, and Carlsberg, are criticizing payment delays totaling nearly $400 million by the Indian state of Telangana. This situation highlights the persistent challenges faced by international alcohol companies in one of the world’s most promising markets.
A dispute that is escalating
In a joint statement, several organizations representing India’s alcoholic beverage industry accused the southern state of Telangana of failing to comply with current accounting rules regarding the settlement of overdue invoices. According to their estimates, the amounts owed total 37.25 billion rupees, or approximately $392 million.
The associations involved, including the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies, the Brewers Association of India, and the International Spirits and Wines Association of India, together account for nearly 80% of India’s spirits, beer, and wine market.
A distribution model under pressure
As in several Indian states, Telangana requires alcohol producers to sell their products exclusively to state-run warehouses. These warehouses then handle distribution to retailers. This system places manufacturers in a position of dependence on local authorities for the settlement of their invoices.
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Featured photo : © Nathan Dumlao
