The established minimum age to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages, with the exception of certain low-alcohol drinks, is 18 years. This regulation applies uniformly across the country and encompasses various types of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits. For example, an individual must be at least 18 years old to buy a bottle of wine at a supermarket or order a beer at a bar.
Enforcement of age restrictions on alcohol access aims to protect young people from the potential harms associated with underage drinking. This legislation seeks to promote responsible alcohol consumption and reduce alcohol-related accidents and health issues among adolescents. Historically, different age thresholds existed; however, the current unified standard reflects a public health approach to alcohol control.
