<h1>Maharashtra hospitality industry demands withdrawal of liquor tax hikes citing business closure and job loss threats</h1> Maharashtra's hospitality industry has demanded the state government withdraw recent tax increases affecting liquor establishments. The government raised VAT on liquor from 5% to 10% and increased license fees by 15% for 2025-26. The industry association president described these measures as devastating for the sector, which operates over 19,000 legal establishments and provides employment to 18 lakh people including 4 lakh direct employees. The industry warned these tax hikes could lead to business closures, job losses, and increased illegal liquor trade from neighboring states, urging immediate government intervention.