HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
According to Bangalore Mirror, a delay by the government in issuing a final notification on the revision of liquor and beer prices has led to a shortage of premium liquor brands in the market. Although the government had announced plans to align liquor prices with neighboring states, the final notification has yet to be released, despite a draft being issued over a month ago.
On June 21, the excise department issued a draft notification proposing a reduction in price slabs from 18 to 16 and revising the prices of various types of liquor, excluding beer and wine. The department had invited objections until June 30 and was expected to issue the final notification soon after. The department aims to generate an additional Rs 3,000 crore in revenue through the revision.
However, liquor manufacturers are reportedly hesitant to supply premium brands due to uncertainty over the pending price changes. They are concerned that any price adjustments could necessitate relabeling, incurring additional costs. As a result, many manufacturers have stopped supplying premium brands.
This shortage has severely impacted retailers, bars and restaurants, which are struggling to meet customer demand. Even when premium brands are available, businesses are reluctant to stock them, fearing potential losses if prices are revised.
Liquor merchants’ associations have written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Excise Minister RB Thimmapur, urging immediate issuance of the final notification. They have requested that if the delay continues, manufacturers should be instructed to supply liquor at the current prices to prevent further market disruption and revenue loss for the government.
An official mentioned that the proposal to revise liquor prices, as announced in the budget, is in its final stages, awaiting approval from the Chief Minister. The delay is attributed to the CM being occupied with the Muda scandal, but approval is expected soon.
Source: Bangalore Mirror
