Adani's Duty-Free Shops in Mumbai Sold Illegal Nicotine Pouches

• •Adani's duty-free shops sold illegal nicotine pouches, breaching Indian law.
• •The Indian government views nicotine pouches as a significant public health risk.
• •Adani is contesting the legality of the sales, claiming duty-free exemptions.

An investigation revealed that duty-free shops at Mumbai International Airport, operated by Adani's group, illegally sold nicotine pouches, classified as a public health risk by the Indian government. Adani contests the findings, arguing that the law does not apply to duty-free sales. The government has stated that nicotine pouches are unapproved and illegal, with a significant public health concern as they are widely consumed among young adults. The case could set a precedent for how India regulates sales in duty-free outlets. If the government wins, it may lead to a ban on these products in airports. Adani's legal challenge is ongoing, claiming inconsistencies in the treatment of duty-free sales versus personal imports. The investigation was prompted by complaints from anti-nicotine groups, leading to inspections that confirmed the illegal sales. Selling these products without a license could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.