Karnataka faces liquor shortage amidst delay in price revision

A delay in the final notification on revised liquor prices by the Karnataka government has led to a shortage of premium liquor brands in its market, according to a media report. The state government's plan to align liquor prices with that of neighbouring states has yet to be finalised, despite a draft notification being issued over a month ago.

On 21^st June, the state's excise department released a draft notification proposing a reduction in price slabs and the revision of prices for various types of liquor, excluding beer and wine. The department invited objections until 30^th June and was expected to issue the final notification soon after.

However, liquor manufacturers operating in Karnataka have expressed reluctance to supply premium liquor brands, citing uncertainty over the pending price changes. Concerns about potential relabeling costs if prices are adjusted have caused many manufacturers to halt supplies of premium liquor brands in Karnataka.

The ongoing delay and its impact on the availability of premium liquor brands in the state highlight the challenges faced by the alcobev industry as it awaits the final decision from the state government.