Russian spirits producers are witnessing a sharp rise in shipments to India, underscoring the country’s growing importance as a key export destination. According to data from the Federal Centre for Agricultural Export Development (Agroexport) under Russia’s Ministry of Agriculture, exports of vodka, gin, whisky and liqueurs to India reached around 520 tonnes in the first ten months of 2025, with a total value of approximately USD 900,000.
Russian business daily Vedomosti reported that this marks a threefold increase in volume and a nearly fourfold rise in value compared to the same period in 2024. Vodka emerged as the dominant category, accounting for exports worth about USD 760,000, highlighting its pivotal role in driving the overall growth.
Traditionally, Russia’s spirits exports have been concentrated in neighbouring and regional markets such as Kazakhstan, Georgia, China, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Belarus. However, the rapid expansion of shipments to India signals a notable shift in export dynamics and market focus.
The surge reflects evolving consumer preferences and rising demand for premium and imported spirits in India. For Russian producers, India is increasingly seen as a promising growth market, offering new opportunities amid changing global trade patterns and diversification of export destinations.