Alcohol Standards Guidelines launched

Apia, SAMOA – 17 May 2024 – The Alcohol Control Board has launched the Samoa Alcohol Standards Guidelines that aims to guide the Board’s administrative and enforcement responsibilities stipulated under section 39 of the Alcohol Control Act 2020.

A first of its kind, the Guideline aims to promote responsible alcohol manufacturing and increase compliance of all alcohol licensees by, providing a clear framework on manufacturing on licensed premises through standardizing measurements for product safety as well as the introduction of threshold on all types of alcohol products. The Guideline is applicable to manufacturers, consumers, and enforcement agencies alike.

Designed to reflect the Vision of the Government’s strategic plan to “Foster social harmony, safety and freedom for all” the Guidelines responds to the concerns raised on alcohol related issues affecting our communities.

Guests at the launch of the Alcohol Standards Guidelines at the Taumeasina Island Resort.

Launching the Guidelines, the Chairman of the Alcohol Control Board and Deputy Prime Minister, Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio, reiterated that the Board is prioritising these concerns and encourages all parties to play their part in the realisation of this vision through responsible manufacturing, distribution and consumption of alcohol.

“The guidelines we unveil today are not meant to stifle innovation or growth but to foster a culture of responsibility.”

He urged all manufactures and consumers to place the well-being of our communities above all else and to join in the collaborative effort to “create a culture where responsible alcohol consumption is the norm, not the exception.”

The Guidelines is expected to be a key guiding document in the formulation of the Alcohol Standards Regulation.

The Board together with the Ministry of Customs and Revenue aim to work together with government agencies, Ministries, the Private Sector and the people of Samoa to promote social harmony and safety for all through this work.