Cobra beer, produced by Karan Bilimoria - a leading non-resident Indian based in the United Kingdom - has won Brussels' prestigious Monde Selection award for the third successive year for its superior quality.

The beer, produced by Hyderabad-born Bilimoria, bagged the award and also a special trophy for achieving the 'hat trick' on Monday night.

Only two brands were chosen this year for the award - Cobra beer and Johny Walker whisky - Bilimoria, who was adjudged the Asian of the year 2002, said in London.

"Cobra beer is being exported to 30 countries including India, the United States and other countries in Europe. During the last one year, the company has opened its offices in Mumbai, Cape Town and New York. It also proposes to start production in India," he said.

Negotiations are currently on with one brewery in India and the production is expected to begin by January next year, Bilimoria said, adding, "We also plan to have a brewery in Hyderabad."

"With a new packaging and an extensive media campaign we want to popularise our brand globally," he said.