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Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has proposed a series of restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages, including a potential ban on sales in regular stores and supermarkets. The proposals were outlined by Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadenov during a government session.
Sadenov explained that alcohol is a key factor contributing to crime in the country, noting that up to 10,000 offenses are committed each year under the influence of alcohol. The ministry emphasized that current measures largely address the consequences rather than the root causes of alcohol-related problems.
He pointed out that some businesses circumvent age and time restrictions, operate around the clock under the guise of bars or cafes, and widely use online delivery. Licenses, he said, can be quickly reissued under other names, making current penalties ineffective.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs suggested several measures:
- A complete ban on online alcohol sales;
- Selling alcohol only in specialized liquor stores (“alkomarkets”);
- Stricter licensing rules with a limited number of licenses.
Sadenov also mentioned restrictions for entertainment venues:
“There is a need to limit alcohol sales hours in entertainment establishments. More than 1,400 offenses, including three murders, were committed under the influence in these venues.”
Historically, alcohol regulations in Kazakhstan have been gradually tightened:
2014: Sale of strong alcohol in stores restricted from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.; weak alcohol from 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Previously, restrictions were softer.
2020: Minimum age for purchasing alcohol and tobacco raised to 21 years (previously 18).
Earlier proposals from the Ministry included allowing alcohol sales only in specialized stores with limited operating hours.
