Thiruvananthapuram: In a major move, the Kerala government has permitted the Kerala State Beverages (Manufacturing & Marketing) Corporation Ltd (BEVCO) to export Indian-made foreign liquor, beer and foreign-made liquor to Lakshadweep, a region where alcohol is generally prohibited. 

Although liquor sales are banned on the islands, the alcohol will be transported to Bangaram Island specifically for tourists. There will be no retail sales of alcohol.

The move comes after requests from the Lakshadweep Tourism Agency, which has argued that sourcing liquor from other states is impractical. BEVCO is currently permitted to supply alcohol only to bars, clubs, military canteens, consumer-fed outlets and its own small retail stores. Sales to other entities are prohibited by law.

Liquor will be supplied from the Ernakulam godown, and while the corporation could purchase liquor directly from distilleries, it has opted for the Ernakulam route for logistical reasons. If Ernakulam is not feasible, liquor could be shipped to Lakshadweep via Beypore port. 

However, there are complications regarding the issuance of permits for transporting the liquor. The Excise Commissioner will issue an order to amend existing rules. Excise permits are generally issued for transporting liquor from storage facilities to licensed establishments, and special permissions are required for exporting liquor from distilleries. 

Additionally, there is a need to resolve tax implications over exporting liquor. Export fees apply to exports from distilleries, while excise sales taxes are levied on sales from godowns. The Excise Commissioner will consult with the Tax Department before issuing a special permit for transporting the liquor.