Mozambique bans ethanol in alcohol production, enforces stricter beverage regulations to safeguard public health 

MOZAMBIQUE – The Mozambican government has banned the use of ethanol in the production of alcoholic beverages, setting agricultural ethyl alcohol as the new standard for manufacturing and standardisation.  

The decision was announced last week by government spokesperson Inocêncio Impissa, who explained that the measure aims to curb harmful practices in alcohol production and safeguard public health. 

The new decree forms part of recently approved regulations on the production, marketing, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in Mozambique. The rules are designed to mitigate the negative social and health impacts associated with alcohol, while also protecting consumer rights. 

Under the regulation, only ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin may now be used in beverage production, with the government explicitly banning synthetic or fuel-grade ethanol. Impissa highlighted that the move is intended to reduce risks linked to the consumption of improperly produced alcohol. 

Additional restrictions include prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages in supermarkets, distributors, and bottle stores on Sundays from 8 p.m. until 9 a.m. on Mondays. Exceptions will be made for restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, and bars.  

The sale of alcoholic drinks in plastic bags has also been outlawed, with strict requirements mandating the use of pure agricultural ethyl alcohol for human consumption. 

The decree further empowers the government to impose sanctions, including the prohibition of foreign commercial representation in cases of violations affecting hygiene, public health, safety, or fair competition. It also establishes prior authorisation requirements for the sale and import of certain beverages and raw materials. 

Officials believe these measures will help reduce issues such as school absenteeism, crime, road accidents, and workplace incidents linked to alcohol misuse. The announcement follows earlier steps by the government, including a temporary suspension of licences for alcohol production and sales.  

That suspension, according to the Ministry of Economy, sought to limit the proliferation of alcohol outlets, particularly near schools, and to address rising concerns about underage drinking. 

On 22 August, Mozambican authorities seized 5,655 units of high-alcohol beverages, valued at 353,000 meticais (US$5519.94)), which were deemed harmful to society. A total of 136 traders were found selling these products in inappropriate locations. The confiscated drinks are scheduled for destruction. 

Commenting on the seizures, Impissa noted that the aim is not to shut down the entire beverage sector but to halt the production of specific harmful products.  

He stressed that such action is vital to protect young people and reduce the negative impacts of alcohol on communities. 

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