From August 1, Latvia will impose strict new restrictions on alcohol sales, aiming to tackle the country’s high per capita consumption, the highest in both the EU and the OECD. Alcohol will only be available for purchase between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays, replacing the current 10 p.m. limit on most days. The rules also apply to online and app-based sales, with deliveries permitted only six hours after purchase to curb impulse buying.
The legislation bans the advertising of alcohol prices and discounts across all media, including online, print, cinema, and at physical sales points. Multi-buy promotions, loyalty program discounts, and any sale or gift of alcohol as a promotion will also be prohibited. Additionally, licensed retailers must display clear warnings about alcohol-related health risks, and gambling venues will no longer be allowed to sell alcohol for on-site consumption.
According to Movendi International, direct healthcare costs from alcohol-related issues reached EUR 56.6 million (USD 61.8 million) in 2021, while FreePolicyBriefs.org estimates total economic losses at 1.3–1.8% of GDP annually. The measures, passed after more than two years of parliamentary debate, are seen as a major step in combating Latvia’s heavy drinking culture.
