Farm Sales Permitted: “Sweden Aligns More Closely with Europe”

Stockholm – Following approval from Brussels, the Swedish government plans to permit farm sales of alcohol starting June 1st.

The deadline passed late Thursday night, with the European Commission raising no objections to the proposal that allows small-scale sales of beer, wine, and spirits at microbreweries, distilleries, and vineyards during visits.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has described the law as a reform for personal freedom, stating that “Sweden is becoming a bit more like the rest of Europe.”

The topic of sales outside of Systembolaget is particularly sensitive, as Sweden has a unique approach within the EU. Only Sweden and Finland allow a single company to monopolize alcohol sales.

Nonetheless, the government believes that the new regulations will not undermine Systembolaget’s role.

The EU approval process has taken longer than anticipated due to a formal protest filed by Portugal last fall. Additionally, Spanish wine producers, the European wine producers’ industry organization, and various public health advocacy groups have voiced their concerns.

Even as the government receives permission to move forward with the legislation, the European Commission has indicated it will continue to monitor the situation once the law is implemented.

(January 9)