Lucknow, Feb. 14 -- Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) is much sought after when it comes to consumption across the country, including Uttar Pradesh, the state that has the highest excise revenue. Now, Uttar Pradesh is aiming to scale up its liquor export numbers for which it has unveiled a separate excise export policy for three years. Touted as the first such export policy by any state in the country, it also eyes opportunities from the recent India-European Union Free Trade Agreement and aims to give 'Brand UP' a foothold in the international market. "Uttar Pradesh accounts for 11% of total liquor exports from India and we intend to double or triple it," said state excise commissioner Dr Adarsh Singh, speaking to HT. "For the first time, an export policy is introduced for three years as we aim to transform Uttar Pradesh into an export hub in the excise eco-system," Singh added. The policy also focuses on increasing liquor exports and aims to establish the state's key role in increasing India's foreign exchange reserves. It also includes provisions for distilleries to manufacture heritage liquor for export, permit tasting taverns, and manage retail sales. The excise export policy aims to increase the production of ethanol and other related products for local agricultural grain and fruit-based exports to industries. The policy also encourages industrial investment for potable liquor exports and expands ancillary sectors such as distilleries, packaging, logistics, and export services. This creates significant direct and indirect employment. In order to promote exports, the rates of bottling duty, export pass fee, franchise fee, and special fee have been reduced to the minimum level for exports equivalent to up to 25% of the prescribed potable capacity under the excise export policy. The provisions for brand registration and label approval for liquor brands to be exported have been relaxed, and the fee rates have been reduced to the minimum level. Minister of state (independent charge) for excise and prohibition Nitin Agarwal said, "For the first time, an export policy has been introduced to establish and promote Uttar Pradesh as a brand. The recent deal between India and the European Union gives us an opportunity to showcase brands from Uttar Pradesh in European countries." The stakeholders in the excise sector have not only welcomed the policy but also termed it as a "pro-farmer" and "progressive policy". Madhvendra Deo Singh, CEO of Mbrosia Nature Living, which started the state's first fruit-based winery, said, "We are making fruit-based wines and already making our products as per international standards. The excise policy 2026-27 seems progressive and farmer-progress oriented. This policy connects the roots of Indian agriculture and boosts the confidence of those growing fruits, vegetables and spices in the state."...