AP CM Chandrababu Naidu has put a complete stop to the entry of new liquor brands in the state. The Excise Department had proposed approvals for additional brands along with the existing ones, but the Chief Minister rejected the idea, stating that there is no need for new brands at this stage.
According to reports, several of the proposed new brands were only similar-sounding variants of existing labels, created by companies with minor name changes. The CM felt that allowing such brands would repeat past mistakes, where the quality was compromised while sales were pushed under different names.
Alongside this decision, the government also reviewed liquor pricing. Proposals for rate adjustments have been placed before the Cabinet through the tender committee. While there is scope for revisions, officials noted that any drastic reduction in prices could hit state revenue. A final decision will be taken based on the tender committee’s recommendations.
At present, the government’s focus is on implementing the new bar policy, rather than opening the market for more brands. This move is seen as a strict signal to liquor companies that brand manipulations for higher sales will not be entertained.