The leading eCommerce giant, Amazon may soon offer online alcohol delivery services in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is reported to have secured clearance from the West Bengal state government to deliver alcohol. Reuters have reportedly noticed a document which hints that the US firm may soon venture into India’s alcohol market.
Moreover, a notice by the West Bengal State Beverages Corp on Friday also stated that the US firm is among companies found to be eligible for registration of online alcohol delivery. The West Bengal State Beverages Corp is the authorised body to carry out online retail of liquor in the state. As per the notice, BigBasket has also secured approval to deliver alcohol in the state. The notice further read that Amazon has been invited to sign an MoU (Memorandum of understanding) with the state.
It has been rendered as a bold move by Amazon to venture into the country’s liquor market. As per the IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, India’s alcohol market has been estimated to be worth around Rs. 46 crores. The leading eCommerce platform has steadily expanded its business and operations in the country over the last years.
Amazon currently features almost everything from fashion goods to handicrafts, from food items and groceries to gadgets and electronics on its platform. Moreover, the company considers India as one of its key growth markets and has already committed roughly around $6.5 billion in investments in the country.
Food Delivery Apps Venturing Into Online Alcohol Delivery
Notably, several online food delivery apps such as Zomato and Swiggy have already started doorstep delivery of alcohol in several states such as Jharkhand and Odisha. However, local retailers had shared their resentment saying they are capable of offering doorstep delivery services.
Initially, the Indian government had restricted liquor sales during its nationwide lockdown which was imposed to curb COVID-19. However, various state governments had later pushed for easing restrictions on liquor sales as it is one of the major sources of revenue for the state government.
