MCKT Beverages launches Nepal's Khukri Rum in India, sets expansion plan

MCKT Beverages aims to sell 20,000 cases of the premium drink by FY26

MCKT Beverages will launch Nepal’s famous Khukri Rum in India and aims to sell 20,000 cases by FY26, the company has said, aiming to reach premium consumers.

 

“The company envisions crafting quality beverages and creating happiness globally. India is expected to become a major contributor to the overall business portfolio over time. Over the next five years, we expect to grow three times our current mark,” Harsh Sinha, country director - India, MCKT Beverages, told ‘Business Standard’.

 

The company plans to first promote Khukri Rum in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Goa as a premium drink. Later in FY26, expansion plans include Haryana, Rajasthan Northeast and Southern India. It aims to establish presence in some 10 cities by the end of FY26 and has discussions underway for duty-free outlets in key airports like Hyderabad and Goa.

 

MCKT Beverages’ line-up includes Khukri XXX Rum, a “bold, dark blend with earthy undertones and a smooth caramel finish”, it said. Khukri Spiced Rum offers a mix of assorted spices, dry fruits, cardamom, and ginger, with subtle hints of toffee. Khukri White Rum has tropical and creamy notes meant for people who prefer a lighter drink.

 

Khukri Rum is crafted from Nepalese sugarcane and it is aged in Shorea Robusta casks. Some batches are distilled and matured for more than 45 years. The rum is sold in the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, Dubai, Australia, and parts of Europe.

 

About competing with industry giants like Radico Khaitan Allied Blenders, and United Spirits in India, Sinha said, "Our unique selling proposition lies in high-quality Nepali sugarcane, pristine Himalayan water, and aging in Shorea Robusta casks—something exclusive to us.

 

“We focus on immersive brand experiences, tasting events, and digital storytelling to engage consumers. The rum category in India is expanding, with rising demand for premium and flavored varieties. Notably, the standard rum segment grew from 500,000 to 600,000 cases between 2023 and 2024.

 

Sinha said he can’t disclose investment amount details but are part of a structured long-term strategy. “Future expansion plans may include setting up a manufacturing facility in India. Currently, our facility in Kathmandu produces around 350,000 cases. It (the company) is also exploring the Bottled in India segment as a potential growth avenue.”

 

“Whiskey dominates but rum is the next big category (in India). Consumers are exploring premium rums, and we see a huge opportunity. Many premium whiskey brands have emerged, but there is still a gap in the high-end rum segment, which we are looking to fill,” said Sinha.