The council’s Social and Cultural Affairs Committee has proposed enacting a dedicated Alcohol Control Act to address growing concerns over alcohol-related harm. According to the committee, it will help regulate the production, distribution, sale, advertising, licensing, and consumption of alcohol. It will also give opportunities for treatment and rehabilitation for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Alcohol liver disease continues to be the leading cause of death.
Some council members suggested strengthening the existing alcohol policy instead of coming up with a new Act.
“Rather than creating a new alcohol framework, it would be more effective to review and strengthen existing alcohol-related policies,” said Dago Tsheringla, Deputy Chairperson, National Council.
“Regardless of the taxes imposed, people will continue to consume alcohol. Instead, controlling its import and production would be more effective,” said Nima Wangdi, Tsirang MP.
In response, the committee said current regulations are unclear. There are also significant annual economic losses, health impacts, alcohol-related deaths, and an increasing number of manufacturing companies.
“Currently, individuals can attend a 10-day alcohol detox programme at the hospital. However, those who are financially disadvantaged often cannot afford further rehabilitation. A dedicated Alcohol Control Act could help provide treatment and rehabilitation opportunities for them,” said Kesang Chuki Dorjee, Member, Social and Cultural Affairs Committee, NC.
The house directed the committee to revisit the recommendation.
According to the Department of Public Health, alcohol is linked to over 200 health conditions and remains a major global concern, with 2.6 million deaths worldwide attributed to alcohol consumption.
According to the National Policy and Strategic Framework to Reduce harmful Use of Alcohol 2015-2020, the per capita adult (aged 15 and above) pure alcohol consumption in Bhutan stands at 8.47 litres, significantly higher than the global average of 6.2 litres.
Alcohol liver disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the country. In Bhutan, 144 people succumb to alcohol-related liver disease. In 2023, 129 died of alcohol liver disease. It is a contributing factor to mental and behavioural disorder and other alcohol liver diseases noted by the health ministry.
Furthermore, alcohol abuse increases susceptibility to infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV. For expectant mothers, alcohol consumption poses risks of fetal alcohol syndrome and preterm births.
Tashi Dekar
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
