India Sake Market Overview, 2028

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that has gained some popularity among a small segment of the Indian population. There has been a growing interest in Japanese cuisine and culture in India, leading to an increase in the availability and consumption of sake. Restaurants and bars that specialise in Japanese cuisine often include sake on their menus to cater to the demands of discerning customers. However, it's important to note that the market for sake in India is still limited. Sake is generally more expensive compared to other alcoholic beverages, and its distinct flavour profile may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the lack of awareness and familiarity with sake among the general population has hindered its widespread adoption. India has seen an increase in tourism from Japan, with Japanese visitors exploring Indian culture and heritage. This exchange of cultures can also influence the adoption and promotion of sake in India. Japanese tourists may seek out authentic sake experiences, while Indian locals interact with Japanese visitors and gain exposure to sake drinking customs and traditions.

According to the research report "India Sake Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the India Sake market is expected to grow at a CAGR of above 6.37% from 2023 to 2028. It's important to remember that the sake market in India is still quite modest when compared to other alcoholic beverages and that sake's cultural acceptance is still growing. The sake market in India, however, has the potential to grow and have a distinctive cultural presence in the future due to rising globalisation, exposure to global trends, and increased interest in Japanese culture. The popularity of sake among middle-aged consumers is comparatively higher than in other age groups (40–60 years), which form a major consumer base for sake. Takara Holdings, Ozeki Sake, and Asahishuzo Company are a few key players in the sake market. In India, several large stores, such as Tonique in Bengaluru, Liquor Bank in Hyderabad, and Mansionz by Living Liquidz in Mumbai, offer sake.

Junmai sake is often preferred over other types such as Honjozo, Ginjo, or Daiginjo, which are considered premium varieties. Junmai sake is made purely from rice, water, yeast, and koji mould, without any additional alcohol or additives. It is known for its smooth and clean flavour profile, making it more approachable for consumers who are new to sake. These premium sakes are characterised by their refined flavours, aromatic profiles, and higher levels of polishing for the rice grains. While they have their own dedicated fan base, they are relatively less popular due to their higher price points and the limited exposure and understanding of sake among Indian consumers. People belonging to the age group of 40–60 years form a major consumer base for sake. The price of sake is usually higher than regular wine and beer, as a result of which per capita income and affordability have a direct relationship with the consumption of sake. While interest in sake is growing, it remains a niche market in India. The availability of sake may be limited to certain cities, specific Japanese restaurants, or specialised liquor stores. This exclusivity and scarcity contribute to the perception of sake as a premium and unique beverage.

Importing sake into India involves complying with customs and excise regulations. Importers are required to obtain the necessary licences and permits, submit the required documentation, and adhere to customs clearance procedures. Distribution of sake to retailers or wholesalers is subject to state-specific regulations and licencing. Distributors must comply with the relevant state excise laws, obtain appropriate licences, and maintain records of sales and distribution activities. Distribution of sake to retailers or wholesalers is subject to state-specific regulations and licencing. Distributors must comply with the relevant state excise laws, obtain appropriate licences, and maintain records of sales and distribution activities. The Sake Matsuri is an annual sake festival organised by the Japan Foundation in India. The festival aims to promote Japanese culture and features a range of sake brands for attendees to sample and purchase. The event also includes cultural performances, workshops, and food stalls offering Japanese cuisine. Sake Matsuri has been held in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. The Sake Summit is an event dedicated to showcasing a wide range of sake brands and promoting the culture of sake in India.

Considered in this report
• Geography: India
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028



Aspects covered in this report
• India Sake market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Types
• Junmai
• Ordinary sake
• Honjozo
• Junmai Ginjo
• Ginjo
• Junmai Daiginjo

By Age Group
• 40-60 Years Old
• 20-40 Years Old
• Above 60 Years Old

By Price Range
• Low
• Premium
• Medium

By Application
• Commercial Use
• Home Use

By Distribution Channel
• On-trade
• Off-trade

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Sake industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.