liquor-prices-set-to-rise-in-bengal-from-december-1

Liquor prices in West Bengal are set to increase from December 1 as the excise department on Monday announced implementation of a new additional excise duty. The revised rules will apply to all types of liquor, both domestic and imported, with the exception of beer, leading to higher costs for consumers across the state just ahead of the English New Year.

 

Administration sources indicated that it would take at least a month to determine the exact impact on prices, with the real picture of revenue generation becoming clear only after December sales figures are compiled. In the meantime, the excise department has instructed all manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers to sell their existing stock at the current rates by November 30. Any stock remaining after this deadline will be subject to the new duty rates, and all bottles sold at the revised price must carry a sticker indicating the updated cost.

 

A senior excise official said, “Before the new duty rate comes into effect, we have issued all necessary instructions to the concerned agencies. Everyone from manufacturers to distributors has been asked to complete registration and label changes within the timeframe fixed by the state government, to avoid any confusion for consumers.”

 

Experts have warned that there may be market fluctuations during the first week following the implementation of the new duty, a pattern seen in previous years. However, the administration expressed confidence that careful preparation by traders would prevent major disruptions, and hopes that old stock will be sold within the stipulated period. Liquor is expected to be available at the revised price statewide from December 1.

 

Political analysts suggest that the move may also be influenced by the upcoming state assembly elections, with the government seeking to boost revenue ahead of next year’s polls. Experts believe that the additional income generated from the increased excise duty will help fund new welfare schemes. A top excise official said, “This decision has been taken with the aim of increasing revenue. However, the government wants the benefits of this additional income to ultimately reach the citizens.”

 

Consumers are advised to prepare for higher prices, while traders are racing to clear existing stock before the new excise duty comes into effect.

 

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