The Andhra Pradesh government has issued its new Excise Shops Policy for 2026-27, retaining 3,736 retail liquor outlets with licences valid from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. Of these, 3,396 are in the general category and 340 are reserved for the traditional toddy-tapping community. Existing operators can renew their licences for a year by paying a renewal Retail Excise Tax of 38 percent of the standard annual tax, in addition to the base annual levy and applicable permit-room charges. Annual tax rates remain at 2025-26 levels based on area population, with general-category renewal fees ranging from roughly 23 lakh rupees to 35.5 lakh rupees, while toddy-tapping community shops pay lower rates. Unrenewed outlets will be allotted via a lottery system requiring a non-refundable application fee.
The framework places a heavier emphasis on digital oversight. A digital track-and-trace system will monitor stock from production to retail sale, and shop owners must keep digital records of inventory and sales. Additionally, each outlet must install four CCTV cameras covering key areas, with footage sent to an AI-enabled monitoring center.