#retailreforms

The Uttar Pradesh Excise Policy 2025-26 has officially come into effect from April 1, 2025, bringing significant reforms to the state's liquor retail and licensing system. The Minister of State for Excise, Nitin Agarwal, announced a major shift in liquor sales, allowing English liquor and beer to be sold under one roof. This move simplifies the customer experience and streamlines operations for retailers.

🔹 Key Highlights of the UP Excise Policy 2025-26

✅ 1. Composite Shops for English Liquor & Beer

Separate stores for foreign liquor (English liquor) and beer are now merged into "composite shops."

This integration increases accessibility without increasing the number of licenses issued.

✅ 2. Model Shops with On-Site Consumption

Retail outlets with a minimum area of 400 sq. ft. can now be upgraded to ‘model shops.’

These shops offer on-premise liquor consumption, similar to bars and lounges.

✅ 3. Country Liquor Shops Can Now Sell Beer

Select country liquor shops are now permitted to sell beer, expanding availability in rural and semi-urban areas.

✅ 4. Introduction of Low-Alcohol Bars

Beer and wine-only bars are being introduced in cities like Noida, Ghaziabad, Agra, and Lucknow.

The aim is to promote lighter alcohol consumption in a controlled environment.

✅ 5. Premium Retail in IT Hubs

Premium liquor stores and bars will now be allowed within IT and ITES zones.

These zones must be larger than 20,000 square meters, catering to professionals in business and technology parks.

✅ 6. Event Bar License Restructured

The licensing system for bars at private and public events has been streamlined.

The introduction of multiple license categories prevents misuse and ensures better regulation.

🔹 Boost to Tourism & Liquor Industry

The policy encourages "Liquor Tourism" by offering incentives to distilleries, breweries, and wineries for hosting guided tours and tastings.

The state government will facilitate licenses and permissions for tourism-based alcohol ventures.

🔹 E-Lottery System for Liquor & Cannabis Shops

The government has launched an e-lottery system for the fair allocation of liquor and cannabis shops.

This enhances transparency, eliminates manual intervention, and prevents corruption.

📢 Impact & Industry Outlook

With these reforms, Uttar Pradesh aims to streamline liquor sales, boost tourism, and enhance retail transparency. This policy is expected to increase revenue and modernize the alcohol industry in the state.