Requiem for the liquor industry

Beer lovers enjoying music at a festival
Beer lovers enjoying music at a festival

The introduction of the alcohol levy, reduced liquor trading hours, traditional beer regulations and reduced entertainment hours, has brought about serious implications to the liquor industry. Some liquor traders have closed shop, while others have continued to shed employees as they continue to operate under huge losses. Staff Writer GOITSEMODIMO KAELO revisits the issue in an interview with Botswana Alcohol Industry Association (BAIA)

At the time of introduction, the restrictions faced stiff resistance and criticism from the industry, retailers and the general public. But the government nonetheless pushed ahead. While these regulations and restrictions were introduced by government with the intention to curb alcohol abuse among citizens, BAIA argues that the intended purpose is far from being achieved.

In a written response to Mmegi, Jacob Sesinyi, the communications and public relations consultant of BAIA, said while they support all sustainable efforts to curb alcohol abuse, they strongly believe that there are other effective ways to reduce alcohol abuse without putting stress on businesses and the economy.

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