Tipplers in Tamil Nadu will now need to shell out more money to indulge in imported foreign liquor and varieties from other states, as the state-run liquor corporation, Tasmac, has decided to raise the maximum retail prices. According to reports, the updated MRP list shows a slight increase in the prices of beer varieties, with a INR 10 hike for 330 ml tins and a INR 20 increase for 500 ml tins.
Nevertheless, there have been significant price hikes for various vodka, whisky, gin, and rum options. The 700 and 750 ml bottles have seen an increase of INR 240, while the one-liter bottles have experienced a staggering INR 320 increase. These price jumps are directly linked to the special fee imposed on agents dealing with imported liquors.
With an extensive range of more than 500 imported liquor varieties and brands, the MRP list appears impressive. However, consumers have expressed their dissatisfaction due to the limited availability of these options. Out of the vast selection, only approximately 10 percent of the varieties are accessible at retail shops. Exclusive sales of imported liquors are restricted to specific establishments, previously referred to as Elite shops, which can be found in malls and a select few shopping complexes.
In addition to that, Tasmac has implemented price increases for liquor varieties sourced from other states. Among the 18 affected types, the prices have gone up by up to INR 320. However, it has been revealed that only three of these varieties are commonly found in all retail shops. For example, the 100 Pipers Blended Scotch Whisky, which was previously priced at INR 460 per 180 ml, now costs INR 520, while Globus wine’s price has surged from INR 140 to INR 170 per 180 ml.
Meanwhile, Tasmac has issued a warning to its staff, stating that they will face suspensions if they overcharge customers for liquor, exceeding the Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
Tasmac’s Managing Director, S Visagan, has sent a circular to all senior regional managers, instructing them to take action against supervisors and salesmen if MRP violations are reported. Failure to do so will result in penalties for the managers themselves. In a stern warning, the staff that they will be suspended for overcharging.