Pernod Ricard faces $600M India tax exposure over alleged Scotch undervaluation scheme

Indian tax authorities accuse Pernod Ricard of using India-only codenames to mask Scotch composition and age, allegedly undervaluing bulk imports by 67% to dodge 150% tariffs. Demand stands at $314M, could exceed $600M with penalties. Case is being contested at Delhi High Court against $2.9B FY India revenue base.

— Filed Wed, 27 May, 2026, 12:46 IST · Source Business Standard · Companies · Updated

Indian tax authorities allege Pernod Ricard concealed Scotch composition and age via India-only codenames to undervalue bulk imports by 67%, dodging tariffs. Demand stands at $314M, could exceed $600M with penalties. Pernod is contesting at Delhi High Court.

Why this matters

Escalates prior India tax disputes against Pernod Ricard, with the $314M demand now potentially doubling to $600M+ as authorities allege deliberate Scotch spec concealment to evade 150% tariffs.

Retail-company signals steady at 1,259 over the past 90 days.