The Government of Karnataka on April 29, 2026, issued the Draft Karnataka Excise (Sale of Indian and Foreign Liquors) (Amendment) Rules, 2026, further to amend the Karnataka Excise (Sale of Indian and Foreign Liquors) Rules, 1968.
The following has been stated:
• The draft introduces a shift towards digital regulation through an “Excise Registry”, defined as an electronic database for managing excise-related records. The amendments replace the earlier manual approval system for brand labels with a system of online intimation and updation, where importers submit details digitally along with a self-declaration confirming compliance with laws such as the Karnataka Excise Act, 1965, Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and Trade Marks Act, 1999.
• Upon submission and fee payment, the system auto-generates an acknowledgment, eliminating prior approval requirements. The responsibility for accuracy, legal compliance, and dispute resolution lies entirely with the importer, while the Excise Department is not liable in such disputes.
• The amendments also expand coverage to include fruit wine and fortified wine, allow the sale/distribution of imported foreign liquor through authorized distributor agencies, and mandate reporting of any label changes.
• Strict penalties are introduced, including cancellation/suspension of labels or a fine of ₹50,000 per label for false information or violations.
The last date for submission of objections/suggestions is May 06, 2026.
[Notification no. - FD 12 PES 2026]
