Haryana approves levy on ethanol “imports” from other states

In India, despite the Supreme Court saying it is illegal and the Parliament preparing to approve legislation banning the practice, Haryana has joined Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh in imposing a levy on ethanol “imports” coming from other states. This type of policy is one of the barriers seen to achieving the country’s ethanol blending mandate, currently at 5% and planned for 10% as soon as possible. The law allows states to put levies on potable alcohol but the Supreme Court ruled that once denaturant has been added, it is no longer fit for human consumption and goes beyond the law allowing state regulation.