Gurugram witnesses a surge in liquor prices as Haryana’s fresh excise policy, initiating a rise in duties on alcohol, takes effect this week. Following the successful auction of 162 zones hosting 324 liquor vends in Gurugram’s east and west regions, prices see a notable 20 per cent increase. The auctions rake in ₹1,756 crore for the Haryana government, marking a 9.4 per cent uptick from the set reserve prices by the excise department.
Rahul Singh, trustee of the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) and founder of Beer Café highlights provisions enabling bars to source from nearby L-2 retail vend licensees of their choice, with price limitations capped at 10 per cent above the minimum retail sale price as per policy.
Data from the excise department reveals that five of the top 10 bids for liquor vends situate near the Delhi border. Amit Bhatia, deputy excise and taxation commissioner (east), anticipates a substantial revenue boost with further auctions planned, including 20 zones in Gurugram east and two in the west on June 14.
Jitender Dudi, deputy commissioner of excise and taxation (Gurugram west), foresees increased foot traffic in stores with the onset of the wedding season. He asserts that while most shops retain their previous owners, the policy’s new provisions promise to invigorate market dynamics.
New Liquor Policy Boosts Flexibility for Bar Operators
Under the latest excise policy, licensed bar operators now have the option to purchase liquor from any of their two nearest vends, provided these shops are under different licence holders. This alteration, officials clarify, aims to enhance flexibility and convenience for bar operators when acquiring their supplies.
Rahul Singh, trustee of the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) and founder of Beer Café says one of the primary goals of the new policy: establishing a transparent system for the allocation of retail outlets and ensuring the availability of quality liquor at reasonable prices.
