Alcohol, Estonia, Legislation, Markets and Companies, Transport

From 1 July 2015, the sale of spirits (ethanol content exceeding 22% by volume) is permitted in stores, with have a total area of at least 150 square metres and the sale is banned in petrol station shops or shops, the entrance to which is located less than 15 meters from the nearest fuel dispenser.

"The aim of the alcoholic beverage sales restrictions is protection of public health and public order. By limiting the availability of alcohol, we change consumption habits and protect public health and also change the attitudes and behaviour of the society," said Deputy Mayor of Tallinn Merike Martinson.

Martinson said that the ease of obtaining alcohol in Estonia is illustrated by the fact that per 100,000 residents, there are 195 strong liquor sales venues in Estonia, while the figure is 6.5 in Finland, 5.1 in Norway and 4.5 in Sweden. In Tallinn there are 4.7 sales venues per 1,000 residents.

Martinson said in Estonia and Tallinn there are too many strong alcoholic beverage outlets in residential areas or near residential areas and the restriction reduces the number of such shops, which usually have sales space less than 150 square metres.