Uttar Pradesh Recorded a 45.4% Increase in Alcohol Exports

Uttar Pradesh recorded a 45.4% increase in alcohol exports in the first quarter of FY2026-27, the highest growth among Indian states and more than double the sector’s national growth rate, according to data from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The state exported alcoholic products worth ₹122.3 crore between April and June, accounting for nearly 13% of India’s total alcohol exports of ₹965 crore. In volume terms, UP distilleries contributed 1.05 crore litres to the 8.13 crore litres of alcoholic products exported by India during the quarter. Production of bottled liquor and extra neutral alcohol (ENA) in the state also increased by 163% during the period. UP, which traditionally ranked seventh or eighth among India’s alcohol-exporting states, has moved to third place for the first time. Maharashtra remains the largest exporter, while Punjab continues to hold the second position. The growth follows UP’s dedicated alcohol export promotion policy, the first such state-level policy in India. Brewers Association of India president Vinod Giri said the policy has strengthened the sector but added that sustained growth would depend on developing products that can compete in global markets. India currently accounts for less than 1% of global alcoholic beverage trade. UP Excise Commissioner Adarsh Singh said higher demand from distilleries is also benefiting farmers and allied industries. Distilleries are purchasing more sugarcane and food grains, while demand for glass bottles, packaging, logistics and transportation is generating additional employment. He attributed the export growth partly to rationalisation of duty structures and registration fees.