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Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 23 (IANS) Kerala Excise Minister MB Rajesh on Thursday called for a significant increase in local liquor production, highlighting its potential to not only meet domestic demand but also explore export opportunities.
However, the minister acknowledged that local opposition may arise but stressed that such concerns should not hinder progress.
He said that despite the presence of nine distilleries in the state, no liquor is being produced by them.
“The state has the capacity to produce its own liquor, yet some vested interest elements are actively opposing local production,” he said.
Concerns over water availability have also been cited, but Rajesh questioned their validity and pointed out that Kerala’s water situation is no different from that of neighboring Karnataka.
He stressed that the government will not bow to vested interests and indicated that some controversial measures may be necessary to move forward.
On the policy front, Rajesh advocated a five-year liquor policy, noting that the existing system of annual policy making has created uncertainty for the industry.
He argued, “The absence of a long-term liquor policy discourages investors and industrialists from setting up operations in Kerala.”
The minister said uncertainty over whether the policy will change next year has been a major concern for manufacturers.
He further highlighted that a long-term policy would provide stability and predictability while encouraging both domestic production and potential exports.
Discussions are reportedly underway to formulate such a policy, which signals the government’s intention to create a more investor-friendly environment for the liquor industry.
According to government data presented in 2023, Kerala’s consumption is actually lower than some other states, at 12.4 per cent compared to the national average.
Minister Rajesh’s statements underline a change in Kerala’s approach towards wine production, balancing industrial development with regulatory oversight in the face of strong opposition.
With both policy and production reforms, the state aims to transform its wine sector into a sustainable and economically profitable industry.
–IANS
SG/VD