The world's leading luxury brands have long sought to tap into India's vast and growing consumer market, but have faced significant challenges such as high customs duties, complex bureaucracy, and strong competition from established domestic designers. French retailer Galeries Lafayette is the latest to enter the fray, opening a massive five-floor store in Mumbai with support from a major Indian conglomerate. While India's luxury sector is expanding rapidly and is expected to triple in value by 2030, foreign brands still struggle to gain a foothold due to cultural preferences and limited premium retail infrastructure. Industry experts note that success in India requires brands to adapt to local tastes and traditions, as Indian consumers often favor homegrown designers for special occasions and are sensitive to price differences compared to international markets.