Archive · 18 Aug 2025
Indian Spirit Makers Allege State Excise Policy Discrimination
Indian alcohol companies are upset with how some states are taxing alcohol.
They claim that rules make it easier and cheaper to sell alcohol that comes from other countries than alcohol made in India.
This is because imported alcohol often has lower fees and taxes.
This makes it harder for Indian brands to compete, especially the expensive ones.
The companies want the government to change the rules so everyone has a fair chance.
Indian spirit makers allege that state excise policies favor imported alcoholic beverages over domestic brands.
CIABC says excise policies, including high registration fees and duties, disadvantage Indian premium brands.
Reduced customs duty on BIO products and high excise duties on Indian brands create unfair competition.
Discrimination is reported in states like Maharashtra, Delhi, and Kerala.
CIABC has appealed to state governments to address these policy discrepancies.
- Who
- The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) and Indian spirit manufacturers are involved.
- What
- Indian spirit makers allege that state excise policies discriminate against domestic alcoholic beverages.
- When
- The issue is ongoing and has been recently raised.
- Where
- Discrimination is reported in Maharashtra, Delhi, Kerala, and other states.
- Why
- Indian brands face higher taxes and fees compared to imported ones, hindering their competitiveness.
Indian Spirit Makers
State Governments
Fairness in Excise Policies
Indian Spirit Makers
State excise policies favor imported alcoholic beverages.
State Governments
State excise policies are fair and do not discriminate.
- Organization
- Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC)
- Issue
- Alleged excise policy discrimination against Indian brands
- States with discrimination
- Maharashtra, Delhi, Kerala, and others
- Maharashtra IMFL duty
- Double the duty of BIO products
- Maharashtra BIO sales increase
- From 5,000 to 42,000 cases monthly after duty reduction
- Delhi Registration fees
- Higher for Indian brands compared to BIO
- Date of publication
- August 17, 2025