Brewers’ Association Pushes for Remote Alcohol Sales to Be Legalized
The Brewers’ Association (APP) approached Valentina Matviyenko, Chairwoman of the Federation Council, to advocate for a bill that would remove the ban on remote alcohol sales. The stance was accompanied by a notice from DEA News flagging the objection.
Officials within AMS argued that legalizing this sales channel would help regulate the market more effectively. They cited both Russian and international experience, noting that extreme limitations on alcohol availability have historically coincided with rises in crime and illicit activity.
According to the Brewers’ Association, the prohibition on remote alcohol sales has effectively fostered a shadow market for beverages. Conversely, lifting the ban could lead to higher tax and excise revenues while eradicating the underground market altogether.
It was emphasized that the buyer’s age could be verified at two points: when the purchase agreement is made and again during the goods transfer, through QR code verification and the document proving receipt by the customer.
Additionally, on the eve of AKIT’s proposals for remote alcohol sales, a QR code-based protection measure was suggested to enhance security during transactions.