September 6, 2025

The Tamil Nadu Hotel Owners Association has cooked up a bold plan to boycott US beverages across the State. Why? To protest against the Trump administration’s harsh 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods. Venkata Subbu, the President of the Association, told businessline that this move comes from a place of national pride and patriotism. “US companies use our water, our raw materials, our people to produce these beverages and then take the profits to their country. On top of this, they are now enforcing tariffs on Indian products. We will not stand by this,” he declared passionately. Subbu explained that the boycott isn’t just a protest but also a golden chance to boost Indian drink brands. “This will help grow and promote multiple Indian alternatives to American beverages, which he claims are healthier and of better quality.” Indeed, local brands like Campa Cola and Bovonto are already winning hearts in the soft drink market. Starting with their one lakh members in Tamil Nadu, the Association plans to push this boycott early and then take it national. Subbu shared that the working committee will meet within the next 15 days to finalize details on how this boycott will roll out. While it’s still unclear if the boycott will be permanent, the Association wants Indian restaurants to serve Indian drinks for the long run. A spokesperson from a major restaurant chain in Tamil Nadu, who is part of the Association, told businessline they have not yet received official notice but promised, “will abide by any boycott calls.” Could this be the start of a spicy, patriotic revolution in Indian beverages? Tamil Nadu’s hotel owners certainly hope so. (With inputs from TE Raja Simhan) Published on September 5, 2025.

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Tags: Tamil nadu hotel owners association, Us beverages boycott, Indian beverages, Tariffs, Trump administration,