Starting December 1, liquor prices across West Bengal (except beer) will increase due to a new additional excise duty announced by the state government. The hike comes just ahead of the New Year season.
According to the Excise Department’s notification:
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A 750 ml bottle of foreign liquor will become ₹30–₹40 more expensive.
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A 180 ml bottle will cost ₹10 more.
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Country liquor prices will also rise by ₹10 per pack.
Manufacturers and distributors have been asked to sell as much stock as possible at the current prices before November 30. From December 1, no alcohol can be sold at the old rates.
The state government expects this tax increase to bring in nearly ₹4,000 crore in extra revenue for the 2025–26 financial year. Officials believe that while prices will go up, liquor consumption is unlikely to fall significantly. This additional revenue, they say, will help reduce West Bengal’s growing revenue deficit.
The government’s expenses are already high due to various welfare schemes such as Lakshmir Bhandar, Banglar Bari, Kanyashree, Lakshmisree, and Puja committee grants. Arrears in dearness allowance are also expected to add another ₹11,000 crore burden on state finances.
As per the 2025–26 budget estimates, West Bengal’s revenue deficit stands at ₹35,314.95 crore, fiscal deficit at ₹73,177.96 crore, and the state’s total debt at ₹7,71,670.41 crore.
All unsold liquor bottles after November 30 must carry the new price stickers. The government has already sent the updated notification to all manufacturers and distributors, asking them to complete the required label and registration changes before the new rates kick in.
Experts predict there may be some temporary disruption in the liquor market in early December, but authorities hope that early preparation by traders will prevent major issues. Meanwhile, liquor businesses have begun reworking their pricing and stock strategies ahead of the hike.
