Chhattisgarh: Alcohol to Get More Expensive as State Hikes Excise Duty

• The Chhattisgarh government has significantly increased excise duty rates on both country and foreign liquor, making alcohol more expensive.
• New duty rates, published in the Chhattisgarh Gazette, will be effective from April 1, 2026, with higher taxes on premium foreign liquor.
• Beer and ready-to-drink beverages will also see increased rates, while a minimum duty rate is set for army and paramilitary forces.
• Tax payment before liquor supply is now mandatory, and prices could further rise based on offers from liquor companies.
• In a separate policy change, liquor will be sold in plastic bottles instead of glass from FY 2026-27 to reduce breakage and injuries.

Why It Matters: Chhattisgarh government increases excise duty on alcohol, making it costlier from April 2026, and mandates plastic bottles.