Magazine: The legal status of opened bottles of alcoholic beverages

After the MVI conference held at Hoventa last year, a conciliation procedure started in 2013 between the different stakeholders – MVI, the Consumption and VAT Department (FFAF) and the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) – as regards the legal status of opened bottles of alcoholic beverages and the related problems. The result was the following: 1. The number and measure of opened bottles allowed in the serving area – the 1-litre limit was increased to 2 litres per alcoholic beverage type. In relation with this question a precise definition of the ‘bar’ would also be necessary. 2. The issue of storing opened products in the production area (kitchen) – MVI’s suggestion is that storage has to be extended to these areas (the current regulation only mentions the storage and serving areas) or perhaps to all areas of the Horeca unit. Concerning this issue NAV will consult the ministry and will publish a communication. 3. The storing of opened products at events held indoor or outdoor – the current regulation is that such products above the level specified for ‘normal’ Horeca units have to be consumed or disposed of. MVI’s suggestion was to allow the storing of such opened bottles in a separate, locked space (room or cupboard), with limited access. The deputy state secretary responsible for tourism asked FFAF to consider this solution and FFAF agreed to do so and to draft a new text, which is to be discussed at further con-ciliation meetings.