Health Minister: From now on only beer and wine may be sold to those aged 16 to 18

From now on, only wine and beer will be allowed to teenagers from 16 to 18 years old. Fermented spirits such as vermouth or beer containing tequila will be banned, the Health Minister, Maggie De Block said.

It is forbidden to sell any alcoholic beverages to anyone under 18 years of age. “One exception, however, is that beer and wine, including sparkling wine, are allowed from the age of 16,” said Minister De Block.

In summary: From now on minors are not allowed to buy any mixes of beer and aroma of spirits, beers labeled, presented or marketed with a reference to a spirits and wine-based pre-mixes that have been added other drinks.

Beer pre-mixes with added fruit flavor, other product or non-alcoholic beverage are allowed from 16 years old.

According to the minister, banning wine and beer to those under 18 would make them even more attractive and increase the likelihood of illegal drinking.