The Assam Excise Department is set to increase the prices of alcoholic beverages by a significant amount starting on April 1, 2024. The increase in prices is applicable to all categories of alcoholic beverages, including Indian-made foreign liquor, beer, wine, and ready-to-drink beverages.
Under the new regulations, the minimum price of beer will increase by a minimum of Rs. 33 to Rs. 43 per 650 ml bottle. The prices for India-made spirits will also rise by a variable amount depending on the brand category. The minimum price for a standard 750 ml bottle of spirits is set to be Rs. 530.
The price increase does not extend to the canteen store departments and the paramilitary wholesale warehouses. However, the tax rates on these outlets will be reduced by a small amount compared to civilian purchases. The minimum price of beer in these channels is expected to increase by Rs. 16 to Rs. 20 per 650 ml bottle, while India-made spirits could rise up to Rs. 262 for a 750 ml bottle.
The Assam Excise Department’s decision to increase alcohol prices is part of its efforts to streamline alcohol pricing policies and manage consumption patterns. The new prices are expected to come into effect on April 1, 2024.