Government bans the import of ethanol alcohol with immediate effect.

According to a directive by Deputy Prime minister and also the Chairman of Liquor Boards, effective 7 March 2022, the ban will be effective on ethanol imported for the purpose of manufacturing alcohol. This decision has been taken considering the fact that ethanol is produced locally.

In a letter dated 3 March 2022, the Chairman of the Liquor Board, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio informed all liquor manufacturers of the Cabinet decision.

The temporary ban comes with condition and exceptions. 

The letter reads;

1.   I refer you to the above matter.

2.   At the last meeting of the Liquor Board 17 February 2022, the members discussed various reports on the concerns over the growing incidents of violence and possible deaths as a result of heavy consumption of ethanol based liquor within our community. These concerns were again raised by the community including the Media and the Courts on the continuing impact posed by the use of ethanol based liquor. This has prompted the Liquor Board to investigate and has made a decision based on its findings.

3.Through this letter, you are herein advised that a temporary restriction/prohibition will be place on the importation of ‘ethyl alcohol’ commonly referred to as ‘ethanol’ for a period of six (6) months commencing 7 March 2022 – 7 September 2022. The prohibition will be subject to the following conditions and exceptions

a. All importation of ethanol (undenatured or denatured) intended for human consumption or that of the manufacture of alcohol will be prohibited within the specified period. 

b. All consignments containing ethanol of the type stated in part (a) above, which have already been loaded onto vessels for import into Samoa as of the date of this letter will be allowed to be imported but subject to further examination of the authorities.

4. The prohibition is temporary to allow the Liquor Board to assess the current situation and decide on a way forward to ensure the safety of our community.  We have received preliminary scientific advice regarding the presence of an excessive amount of methanol contained in most of our locally manufactured ethanol based liquor. The assessment work will extend to cover the import processes, suppliers and local production and especially the legal frameworks governing this particular activity

5.    Please feel free to share your views on this proposed change. We welcome your comments to be received within seven days from the date of this letter.