Belarus to ban light alcohol beverages

Belarus' revenue authority has drafted a legislation on light alcoholic beverages. Taxes and revenues deputy minister Vasil Kamenka told the Interfax news agency that the production, the import and the sales of light alcoholic beverages would be haulted. The document was drafted at the order of the government of Belarus, citing quality concerns. "They mix the spirit with water and chemicals and sell it as if it a light alcoholic beverage", Vasil Kamenka said.

Alcoholism, especially among yongsters who consume a lot of alcohol punches, remains a serious problem that triggered this measure.

The draft resolution has already been approved by the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Trade and the Belgospischeprom concern.