Legislative Council passed the Bill which prohibiting the sale and supply of intoxicating liquor to minors in the course of business

13 February 2018

Alcohol is a toxin against youth brain development. Research showed that youths with long-term alcohol consumption have poorer memory and impair their academic performances. Besides, youths who start drinking before age 18 are more likely to develop alcohol abuse or dependence in adulthood.

The Dutiable Commodities (Amendment) Bill 2017 (“the Bill”) was introduced by the Food and Health Bureau to Legislative Council in June 2017. It aims to prohibit the sale or supply of intoxicating liquor to minors in the course of business. The Bill seeks to restrict minors' access and exposure to alcohol thereby reducing their risk of developing alcoholism, and protect health of the youths and their family.

The Bill was passed in February 2018 by the Legislative Council and will be enacted in about 6 months (effective date will be announced later).