Update on MHA's Review Of Exemption of Food Products Containing Alcohol

The Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act (LCA) was enacted in 2015 to restrict the sale hours of liquor at retail outlets and consumption of liquor in public places. The LCA applies to all products containing more than 0.5% alcohol.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has completed a review, following feedback from the public and industry that certain products containing alcohol need not be regulated under the LCA, as consumers were unlikely to abuse them.

In consultation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, except for beverages which will continue to be regulated given the significantly higher risk of abuse, MHA will be exempting all other food products from the licensing requirements of the LCA. These exemptions will take effect from 18 January 2019.

With this change, except for beverages, all other food products containing alcohol can be sold and consumed after 10.30pm in public places. MHA and the Police will monitor the ground situation, and periodically review and update the legislation as required.