Belarus eases alcohol import rules

MINSK, 28 December (BelTA) – The list of alcohol beverages, which will not be imported exclusively by the state in 2013, has been expanded in Belarus. The decision is laid down by Trade Ministry resolution No. 35 of 21 December 2012. The resolution was published by the national legal information website pravo.by on 28 December, BelTA has learned. The resolution comes into force on 1 January 2013.

Representatives of the Trade Ministry explained that the decision will allow expanding the choice of premium quality alcohol products in restaurants, cafes, and major shopping centers. The list of the beverages has been expanded taking into account the law administration practice. The source added that the imports will not represent competition for Belarusian manufacturers because these beverages are not manufactured in Belarus.

The list of cognacs has been expanded from 43 to 48. It now includes Hennessy X.O., Hennessy Paradis, Hennessy Library (France) and new titles of the French cognac Camus. The list of whisky titles has been expanded from 63 to 78. Those are mainly UK-made products as well as Irish products. In particular, the list now includes Johnnie Walker Black Label, Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve, Dalmore King Alexander III, Bell’s, Bell’s Original (UK), new titles of Jameson (Ireland) and other products. The list of rum imports has been expanded to include Captain Morgan brand, in particular, Captain Morgan Jamaica Rum and Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum (UK).

The list of gin and champagne imports remains the same. Terms of grape wines import have not been changed.

The imports, which are not listed, can be imported by the state only. BelTA reported earlier that Belarus government resolution No. 713 of 6 June 2011 authorized the Trade Ministry to determine the list of alcohol beverages every year, which import is not the exclusive domain of the state.