The primary aim of this new alcohol policy; succeeding the one covering from 2018 to 2023; is to minimise the harm attributed to alcohol consumption.

This includes, addressing the direct effects on individual health and behaviour, as well as the resulting social impact, and ultimately, enhancing overall well-being.

In addition to the harms caused by alcohol to the individual user, alcohol harms also effect significant others, such as the family, extended family, friends, the community, and society as a whole.

What may be termed as “alcogenic environments” make matters more profound, in that they exacerbate the harms induced by alcohol consumption.

Hence, the policy herein, is an attempt to reduce alcohol consumption in the population as a whole, by introducing measures that limit access and availability and also too, acceptability; as well as by the targeting of at-risk drinkers and the treatment of drinkers with alcohol use disorder.

Naturally, it goes without saying, that underage drinking will also be addressed since the later in life one is introduced to alcohol, the lesser the risks related to excessive alcohol use and the accompanying harm to self and others.

The general public is invited to submit feedback on the National Alcohol Policy document until the 31st of July 2025. 

The public consultation document can be accessed via the link below:

https://family.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/NationalAlcoholPolicy.pdf