Key Points
Karnataka is set to maintain its position as the most expensive state in India for premium liquor brands, as the State government has proposed a 20% increase in additional excise duty (AED) on alcohol...
According to officials from the Excise Department, even though liquor brands with lower price tags are still relatively cheaper in Karnataka compared to other states due to the long-standing ban on the sale of Arrack, a crude country liquor variant, a comparison of liquor prices reveals that even some low-end brands have become more expensive in the state...
However, with the recent AED hike, beer in Karnataka (priced at Rs 187 for a 650ml bottle) will become the third most expensive, following Tamil Nadu (Rs 210) and Delhi (Rs 190)...
Nevertheless, a review might be considered later as the chief minister believes that premium liquor is overly expensive in Karnataka, while brands in the lower price ranges are relatively cheaper...
Even officials from the excise department acknowledge the disparity and are concerned about the potential diversion of trade to other states due to the higher prices in Karnataka, particularly for premium brands..
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