Calls for Equal Treatment with Foreign Competitors
Bhubaneswar (Odisha Tazanews) :- With the BJP government now in power in Odisha, the Indian liquor industry is hopeful that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will promote ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ by ending discrimination against Indian alcoholic beverages. They are calling for the withdrawal of special tax concessions given to foreign brands by the previous government. Domestic liquor manufacturers are concerned that imported drinks—such as whisky, gin, and vodka—are taxed less than premium Indian brands, creating an unfair advantage. Last year, the previous government reduced excise duties on imported liquor but maintained higher rates for Indian products.
With the new excise policy for 2025-26 approaching, manufacturers hope to see changes that will provide a level playing field. “We recommend that the Odisha government reduce excise duties on Indian products to be in line with those for foreign liquor,” stated Anant S. Iyer, Director General of the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Industry (CIABC).
He emphasized that production costs for Indian liquor are significantly higher than those for imports, partly due to raw material and capital costs. As the Indian government negotiates Free Trade Agreements, duty reductions on foreign liquor will only widen the price gap. Iyer urged the state government to support the local industry, noting it supports over 5 million farmers and employs over 2 million workers while generating substantial revenue for the state. Strengthening this sector is crucial for the economy.
