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24 Oct 2000, Belgium

Hi

I am investigating the possibility of sending wine & beer - as gifts - to individuals in Europe. Shipping would take place centrally out of Belgium.

Is this allowed? What are the requirements?

Thanks,

Benny

Dear Benny:

I put your question to legal eagle Corinna Schulze, who replies:

"First of all you speak of Europe as a whole and not only of the EU. This means it includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Lichtensetein (and so EFTA )and other non-EU members as well. In these countries you don't have an internal market and must of course respect restrictions. You can bring alcohol as an individual but only to a certain limit (e.g. one bottle of strong alcohol). For sending alcohol you also have to respect certain rules which differ from country to country.

There are in general no restrictions within the internal market. (with the exception of Denmark, Finland and Sweden). That said, the Member States have the right to ensure that these products, circulating on their territory, are for private purposes and not for sale. The following quantities are indicators for private purposes:

• Aperitifs: 20 litres
• Wine: 90 litres (45 in Ireland) - including 60 litresof sparkling wine (30 in Ireland)
• Beer: 110 litres (55 in Ireland)
• Alcohol: 0 litres (above 22 Vol.-%)

Even in the internal market (so in the EU) you have to be aware of
restrictions. Most Scandinavian countries still have a monopoly on the production/sale of alcohol and you need a licence to import it if you exceed a set limit. This is because there is a transition period before there is true open competition.

The conclusion is that it is probably best to check the situation for each country within and outside the internal market to find out what special restrictions and procedures there are and what kind of agreements exist, especially concerning the quantity of alcohol you want to send."

In addition to Corinna's remarks, I suggest you contact your favourite courier company in order to check the situation - they are normally aware of customs and shipping regulations around the world and in most cases are willing to share this information with their customers.

Good Luck,

Dr. Ecommerce