France, May 7 -- France's Pernod Richard has urged India to reducetaxes on foreign liquor, saying the levy is keeping brands beyond the reach of consumers. The appeal came after several states offered rebates to rake in revenue from spirits.

Pernod also hopedtalks between Britain and India could lead to a free trade pact that would lower Delhi's whiskey tax.

"It is a fantastic opportunity not just for Scotch whiskey producers in the United Kingdom but for the Indian consumers," said Chivas Brothers chairman Jean-Etienne Gourgues as he pressed for a cut in import duty.Colossal tax

"This 150 percent tariff as is the case now is limiting the ability for the consumers to be able to purchase quality Indian whiskey," he told News18 TV statio...