Japanese whisky to be redefined in April to protect brand

As fake labels set off alarm bells, domestic industry sets parameters

20240325 Whiskey

Compared to Scotch and Canadian whisky as well as American and Irish whiskey, Japanese whisky has lacked clear definitions on country of origin, years of production and aging, and alcohol content. (Photo by Tomoki Mera)

CHIHIRO ISHIKAWA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's alcohol industry in April will implement a new set of definitions for Japanese whisky as it endeavors to keep foreign-made spirits from being branded as Japanese, a trend that has set off alarms at the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association.

Clear criteria will be set on indigenous ingredients, production methods and other factors.

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