Local arrack, beer prices up with new tax measures

With changes to the rate of VAT and increase in price of raw material, tipplers are forced to fork out more from yesterday as the country’s largest brewer and manufacturer of arrack announced a revision of prices.

A 750ml bottle of arrack will now cost Rs. 2,500 – up Rs. 520 – whilst the popular 180ml flask will cost Rs. 680, an increase of Rs. 130. The price of large cans of beer and bottles are up Rs. 30, and a pint up Rs. 20.

Recently, the Department of Excise introduced fresh regulations on quality control to local manufacturers, as it emerged a local producer of arrack had issued substandard products to the market. The factories are alleged to belong to a prominent ruling party politician.