Foreign liquor to get cheaper in Chhattisgarh

Foreign liquor in Chhattisgarh is set to get cheaper after the state government decided to scrap “additional excise duty” of 9.5 percent imposed on them, an official from the government’s Public Relations Department told media. As a result, the retail prices of foreign liquor, particularly in the medium and high-range categories, will drop by approximately ₹40 to ₹3,000 per bottle. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday evening.

“As per the new policy, the 674 liquor shops will continue to be functional in the next financial year and the premium shops will be operated as per requirement,” the official said, adding that, “For supply of country liquor, the existing rate offer will continue to remain effective. The wholesale procurement and distribution of foreign liquor will continue to be managed by Chhattisgarh State Beverages Corporation Limited. Infrastructure development fee on liquor will remain unchanged, while additional excise duty of 9.5 percent on retail foreign liquor will be scrapped in the next financial year.”

The decision is expected to bring two major benefits, including making foreign liquor affordable in Chhattisgarh and curbing smuggling of liquor from other states. “The government believes when liquor prices remain uniform, there will be no incentive for illegal imports. This move will not only benefit the state’s revenue but also help maintain market stability,” informed the official.