Finland's Alcohol Law Reform Advances, Sunday Openings and Home Delivery Possible

Finland's parliament is rapidly advancing a revised alcohol law that could permit Alko, the state-owned alcohol retailer, to open on Sundays and allow for the home delivery of alcoholic beverages. The proposed legislation has now moved to the Grand Committee, which is tasked with expediting its review to enable a vote before the upcoming summer recess.

This legislative push follows a significant vote in the social and health committee, where the majority rejected a proposal that included numerous stricter amendments to the government's original bill. The opposition, along with a representative from the Christian Democrats, voted against the stricter measures, while the majority of the ruling coalition supported a counter-proposal largely aligned with the government's initial draft. This counter-proposal, however, includes calls for more stringent age verification and expanded Alko opening hours.

The most significant change proposed in the reform is the legalization of alcohol home delivery. Additionally, the bill aims to clarify regulations for remote sales from abroad. The economic committee had previously suggested that Alko's opening hours should be broadened alongside this reform.

Debate continues on the specifics of home delivery, particularly concerning the maximum alcohol percentage allowed for delivery and the timeframe for such services. While the government initially proposed allowing deliveries of beverages up to 80% alcohol, the committee favored aligning these limits with domestic retail sales, capping them at 5.5–8%. Concerns also exist regarding the notification period for deliveries, with some suggesting a 24-hour advance notice requirement. The Grand Committee is expected to provide further details on the bill's progression later today.