Liquor prices in West Bengal are set to undergo a revision from October 1, just ahead of the Durga Puja season, following a decision by the state authorities to introduce a new pricing structure for alcoholic beverages.
The West Bengal State Beverages Corporation Limited (WBSBCL) has indicated that revised prices for foreign liquor, beer and Indian-made liquor will come into effect from October 1, 2026. However, the exact extent of the price increase has not yet been disclosed.
According to the latest notification, manufacturers and suppliers will have to register their products afresh under the new pricing structure. The directive applies even to products whose existing prices remain unchanged.
New pricing process underway
The decision follows a meeting held at the WBSBCL headquarters on September 3 with manufacturers and companies involved in the supply of foreign liquor, beer and Indian-made liquor. The discussions were based on three pre-bid notices issued on August 25.
The companies were asked to submit fresh price-related documents and complete the necessary product registration process. The revised prices will be applicable from October 1, according to the notification.
The authorities have also directed companies to ensure that the prices they declare comply with the prevailing excise regulations and the applicable all-India minimum price prescribed as of June 30, 2026.
While the move establishes October 1 as the date for the new pricing regime, the notification does not specify how much consumers will have to pay extra.
The report does not mention a fixed percentage or amount of increase, and the impact is expected to vary across brands and products. The actual change in bottle prices will become clear only after the final price list is issued.
An official familiar with the government’s approach said revenue generation has been given greater priority since the new administration assumed office. Excise revenue from liquor is considered an important source of state income.
Existing stock can still be sold
The notification also provides for the sale of liquor already carrying older maximum retail prices. Such stock can continue to be sold as long as the existing bottle-label registration remains valid.
At the same time, manufacturers have been asked to maintain regular supplies so that the revised pricing system does not lead to shortages during the festive season.
With Mahalaya scheduled for October 10, the revised liquor prices are expected to come into effect just before the beginning of the main Puja period.
