Lucknow: UP, the first state in the country to introduce a dedicated policy for promoting exports of alcoholic beverages, has recorded the highest growth in alcohol exports during the first quarter of FY 2026-27. Compared with the corresponding period of the previous financial year, the state’s alcohol exports grew by 45.4%, significantly outpacing the national average.The production of bottled liquor as well as extra neutral alcohol (ENA) also registered an increase of 163% during the period. According to data compiled by union ministry of commerce and industry, exports of alcoholic products from UP grew at over double the national rate for the sector.The total value of alcoholic products exported from the country during Apr-Jun stood at Rs 965 crore, of which UP contributed Rs 122.3 crore, accounting for nearly 13% of the total. Of the 8.13 crore litres of alcohol exported from India during the quarter, 1.05 crore litres were produced by UP distilleries.Industry stakeholders attributed the state’s strong performance to its recently introduced alcohol export promotion policy.“UP is the first and only state in the country to come out with a dedicated alcohol export promotion policy. The turnaround that we are witnessing has been made possible by proactive policymakers who studied the existing framework before drafting a policy that benefits both entrepreneurs and farmers,” said Vinod Giri, president of Brewers Association of India.Giri said the policy push must be complemented by quality products to sustain the momentum. “We already have an improved policy framework. It now needs to be complemented with good products for long-term impact,” he said, pointing to opportunities in the global market, where India currently accounts for less than 1% of total alcoholic beverage trade.Traditionally ranked seventh or eighth among exporting states, UP has climbed to the third position nationally for the first time and is now competing directly with Punjab, which has long occupied the second spot in alcohol exports. Maharashtra continues to lead the segment, aided by access to multiple ports.“Distilleries in UP are procuring more sugarcane and food grains from farmers, strengthening rural incomes. Increased demand for glass bottles, packaging material, logistics and transportation services is also creating employment opportunities. By rationalising the duty structure and registration fees, we have helped accelerate output and exports,” said excise commissioner Adarsh Singh.
