Scotch prices may fall up to 15% in Delhi as govt weighs British liquor duty cut

Delhi’s Excise Department is considering a reduction in customs duty on British liquor, which could cut the retail price of some premium Scotch whiskies in India’s capital by up to 15%. Officials said prices could drop by about Rs 200 to Rs 300 in the retail market following the policy-linked decision, though they added the timeline may be slow because the department currently lacks a full-time Excise Commissioner. The post became vacant after IAS Ravi Jha was transferred to Arunachal Pradesh. Officials also said revised pricing may appear this month, but an equivalent retail reduction is unlikely because state excise duties, taxes, trade margins and other costs will still apply. In Uttar Pradesh, similar declines are expected from October 10, with premium brands estimated to fall 5–15%.