08 Jun 2021

The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry has observed with great concern some liquor outlets which operate beyond the stipulated hours, including weekends.

A press release from the ministry explains that some liquor traders continue to violate Government Notices No.75 of 2021, published on February 26 and No.87 of 2021, published on March 5, of the Emergency Powers (COVID-19) Regulations, 2020. 

“As you are aware, only wholesale and distributor outlets are allowed to liquor sale during the weekend,” it says.  

The release further advises liquor traders that no liquor is served in restaurants except between 10am and 6pm from Monday to Friday, including a public holiday, which falls on Monday to Friday for consumption off-premises.

It says Bar liquor, Liquor Deport, Bottle Store and Club Liquor licensees are authorised to sell liquor for consumption off-premises from 10am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, including a public holiday, which falls on Monday to Friday.

Furthermore, the press release says Wholesale Liquor and Distributor Liquor licensees are authorised to sell liquor only between 8am and 5pm on Monday to Saturday, including a public holiday, which falls on Monday to Saturday.

The press release says traditional beer brewed at home is to be sold on Monday to Friday between 10am and 5pm, including a public holiday, which falls on Monday to Friday. 

“Discotheque/nightclubs and temporary liquor are still closed,” says the release.

It also notes that there is no sale of liquor on Saturday and Sunday except for wholesale liquor and distributor liquor outlets. 

“All liquor business operators and managers are, therefore, advised to comply with the regulations as failure to do so will attract stiff penalties by the law enforcement officers,” it says. Ends