Mumbai, Jan. 29 -- The Coca-Cola Company's president and chief financial officer John Murphy has reaffirmed India's critical position in the beverage maker's global strategy, underscoring its growth potential, evolving retail dynamics, and the competitive landscape.

Speaking to media in Mumbai on Wednesday, Murphy highlighted the strength of rural markets, the rising importance of vending, and the company's approach to competition amid the resurgence of local brands.

Murphy, who visits India almost annually, acknowledged the strength of the country's rural economy as a key driver of the company's expansion in its fifth-largest market globally. "We are seeing strong momentum in rural markets, which presents a massive opportunity for FMCG...