The new regulation on the control of the production, marketing and consumption of alcoholic beverages, approved by the government on September 2, came into force yesterday, Saturday (11).

Approved by Decree no. 31/2025, of September 11, the instrument will replace Decree no. 54/2013, of October 7, which was revised after controversy over the control of the production, marketing and consumption of low-cost spirits, especially among young people.

The new regulation has 63 articles (48 more than the previous one), spread over nine chapters (compared to six in the previous one). The most important are the requirements applied in the manufacture, standardization, bottling and marketing of alcoholic beverages; rules on presentation and labelling; limitations on the sale, availability and consumption of alcoholic beverages in public places; and the requirements applicable to alcoholic beverage establishments.

With several innovations, the new regulation includes, among other new measures, a ban on the use of alcohol of synthetic origin for the production of alcoholic beverages; a ban on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in social centers and festive environments of public institutions; a ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in supermarkets and bottle stores; and the cancellation of residence visas for foreigners who violate the new regulation, in addition to the application of the appropriate sanctions, including fines.

According to a Letter from MozambiqueIn addition, the regulation also introduces proof of age for minors. "The presentation of an identification document allowing proof of age should be required, and such a request should be made whenever there is a possibility that a minor is involved, and to refuse the supply of alcoholic beverages or entry or stay in the places referred to, whenever there are doubts about it. In the event of a refusal to show the identification document, the purchaser or the person to whom the alcoholic beverage is made available is presumed to be a minor," argues the government.

Decree no. 31/2025, of September 11, also continues to prohibit the advertising of alcoholic beverages in educational institutions, public institutions, public transport stations, especially collective and semi-collective land and road transport.

(Photo DR)