Mozambique halts alcohol licensing to curb youth consumption of cheap spirits
The government is introducing new regulations to restrict harmful alcohol sales and protect young people near schools.
MOZAMBIQUE – Mozambique’s Ministry of Economy has announced a temporary halt to the issuance of new licenses for economic activities involving the production and sale of alcoholic beverages nationwide.
The decision is part of efforts to prevent the spread of unregulated alcohol outlets, particularly in public spaces and near schools, where underage drinking has become increasingly common.
The suspension targets a category of low-cost alcoholic spirits known locally as Xivontxongo, which are widely available on street corners in Maputo and have been linked to health and social concerns among young people.
The government’s move follows a recent investigative report aired by independent broadcaster STV, which highlighted the widespread consumption of these drinks by minors, including within close proximity to educational institutions.
Although the issue has been acknowledged for years, the televised coverage prompted swift action from national authorities.
According to a statement by the Ministry of Economy, new legislation will soon be approved to regulate the manufacture, marketing, and consumption of alcoholic beverages across the country. The aim is to reduce harmful alcohol use and improve consumer protection.
Government spokesperson and Minister for State Administration, Inocêncio Impissa, explained during a press briefing that the intention is not to shut down beverage factories entirely, but rather to eliminate the production of specific alcoholic products deemed harmful to the public, particularly the youth.
Impissa emphasized the urgency of removing alcohol vendors from the vicinity of schools. He also noted that some of the offending manufacturers are officially registered and pay taxes, despite producing drinks sold as “gin” that bear little resemblance to standard spirits.
A committee, led by the Ministry of Economy, has been formed to conduct inspections at production sites and ensure the enforcement of the new rules. Once the updated regulations are finalized, businesses found violating them will face legal penalties.
“The goal is to establish effective regulations to prohibit these harmful practices,” Impissa stated, reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting public health and safety through stronger oversight of the alcohol industry.
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