EIMIN initiative to level the playing field for businesses selling alcohol at events
The Seimas has approved an initiative by the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation to reduce the administrative burden and level the playing field for businesses selling alcohol at various events.
"In order to reduce bureaucracy and allow businesses to operate a little more freely, we have initiated minor amendments to the Alcohol Control Act. They have leveled the playing field for businesses selling a wide range of alcoholic beverages at fairs, exhibitions and mass events. These changes will ensure fairer competition," said Aušrinė Armonaitė, the Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
The changes will come into force on 1 June this year. The amendments will allow businesses to sell alcoholic beverages of up to 15 degrees, such as wine, sparkling wine, low alcohol cocktails and mead, at fairs, exhibitions and mass events. Previously, only beer and cider up to 7.5 degrees could be sold.
The amendments to the Alcohol Control Act also clarify what does not constitute alcohol advertising, i.e. online platforms such as Bolt Food will be allowed to publish alcohol-related information. In addition, information on food and alcoholic beverage matching kits, awards received by companies, technology or traditions in the production of alcoholic beverages will also not be considered alcohol advertising.
"The changes to the law will reduce the administrative and regulatory burden on businesses. It will allow companies selling a wide range of alcoholic beverages to increase their visibility and consumers to learn more about the production process, history and the wider range of beverages they can choose from," said Ieva Valeškaitė, Deputy Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
Alcoholic beverages will still not be available as promotional gifts to consumers.
Once the law comes into force, tastings will be allowed at the production sites of alcoholic beverages. Tasting is currently only permitted at trade fairs and exhibitions.