GIFT City liquor sales earn ₹94.19 Lakh

Gandhinagar

The Gujarat government has earned ₹94.19 lakh from liquor sales at Gandhinagar-based Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) since the state allowed controlled alcohol consumption on December 30, 2023. The information was shared in the Assembly by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who holds the Prohibition and Excise portfolio.

Gujarat has been a dry state since its formation in 1960, banning the manufacture, sale, and consumption of alcohol. However, to create a global business ecosystem, the government made an exception for GIFT City in 2023. The fintech hub saw the consumption of 3,324 bulk litres of spirit, 470 bulk litres of wine, and 19,915 bulk litres of beer as of January 31, 2025.

The government has issued liquor sale licences to two entities—West India Recreation Projects Pvt Ltd and The Grand Mercury. These establishments received their permits on January 9 and January 10, 2024, respectively. Alcohol consumption is allowed only within designated premises, and liquor bottles cannot be sold for takeaway.

To regulate access, liquor permits are provided to employees and business owners working at GIFT City. Visitors can also obtain temporary permits to consume alcohol at approved hotels and restaurants. Additionally, outsiders visiting Gujarat can purchase liquor from authorised outlets after obtaining a temporary permit.

By allowing controlled liquor sales, the state aims to attract global investors, technical experts, and international companies while maintaining regulatory oversight.