Overview: Paul John Whisky strengthened its position in China with a high-profile presence and exclusive launch at the Whisky L! 2026 exhibition in Shanghai. The event marked the first-ever introduction of a single cask, cask-strength, limited-edition collectors’ single malt within the country. Consulate General of India Shri Pratik Mathur inaugurated the brand’s booth within the largest-ever India Pavilion at the 18th edition of the exhibition.
The Full Story
Paul John Whisky of India strengthened its position in China with a high-profile presence and exclusive launch at the Whisky L! 2026 in Shanghai on 14-16 August. The event was especially notable for Paul John’s first-ever launch of a single cask, cask-strength, limited-edition, collectors’ single malt in China. Consulate General of India Shri Pratik Mathur inaugurated the Paul John booth within the largest-ever India Pavilion at the 18th edition of the high-profile exhibition.
He expressed happiness and pride at the participation of the renowned Indian single malt brand in one of China’s premier drinks exhibitions and lauded the balanced trade and investment opportunities China and India offer. Mathur noted that Paul John single malts have won more than 380 global awards and enjoy a presence in over 45 countries, including China. At a Buyers2Sellers meeting attended by nearly 200 Chinese distributors, Mathur cited the Hindu saying ‘Pardes Mein Sarvpratham Swadeshi (परदेस में सर्वप्रथम्स्वदेशी) – loosely translated as ‘Indigenous products first and foremost even in foreign lands’.
The Consulate General highlighted the timing of this year’s Whisky L!, which coincided with the 80th anniversary of Indian independence (celebrated on 15 August during the exhibition), saying it showcased the country’s commitment to bringing exceptional Indian products to the world. “The overwhelming response at the India Pavilion stands as a testament to India’s craftsmanship and the global acclaim for our products,” said Panda. As reported, Paul John Whisky extended its Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru Airport-exclusive range this March with a single cask expression in partnership with Bengaluru Duty Free (Bangalore International Airport Limited and Avolta), the third such retailer-specific offering.
Brand & Industry History
Rajesh Panda has played a critical role in raising awareness of Indian single malt whisky through bringing Paul John to travel retail, first at home and then abroad. Through SAI RP Enterprises, the brand is served in China by Shenzhen Longman Import & Export Company. The airport-exclusive range extended at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru in March 2026 with a single cask expression.
What This Means
The launch signifies a strengthened position for Paul John Whisky in the Chinese market through a high-profile presence at the exhibition. The event showcased the country’s commitment to bringing exceptional Indian products to the world, highlighting the balanced trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
Consumer Takeaway
This release offers access to a single cask, cask-strength, limited-edition collectors’ single malt in China. The brand maintains a presence in over 45 countries, including China, with previous airport-exclusive range extended at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru.
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