Amazon signals entry into alcohol delivery in India with nod in key state – document

Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O) has secured clearance to deliver alcohol in India’s eastern state of West Bengal, according to a document seen by Reuters, signalling the U.S. e-commerce giant’s first foray into the country’s multi-billion-dollar sector.

In a notice on Friday, West Bengal State Beverages Corp, the authorised agency to carry out online retail of liquor trade in the state, said Amazon was among the companies found to be eligible for registration with authorities.

Alibaba-backed (BABA.N) Indian grocery venture BigBasket has also won approval to deliver alcohol in the state, the notice said.

West Bengal is India’s fourth most populous state, with a population of more than 90 million people.