Alcohol consumption in Finland continues to show a downward trend, according to the latest data from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL). In 2023, the total amount of pure alcohol consumed per person aged 15 and over was 8.3 litres, a 4.4 percent decrease compared to the previous year. This includes both recorded and unrecorded consumption.
Alcohol sales fall across both retail and hospitality sectors
Recorded alcohol consumption, which covers retail sales and on-premise sales in bars and restaurants, dropped by 3.5 percent, amounting to around 7.2 litres per capita. Notably, on-premise consumption fell by 5.6 percent, reflecting a shift in drinking habits and possibly broader lifestyle changes.
Liberalisation of alcohol laws not reversing downward trend
Interestingly, this decline has continued despite the liberalisation of alcohol sales laws. Since June 2023, Finnish grocery stores have been allowed to sell fermented alcoholic beverages with up to eight percent alcohol content, including stronger beers, ciders, long drinks, and low-alcohol wines.
This policy change sparked a debate over whether easier access to alcohol might lead to increased consumption. However, THL’s statistics suggest otherwise, indicating that broader social and cultural factors are having a greater influence than legislative reforms.
MPs divided over proposal to allow wine sales in grocery stores
The Finnish Parliament remains divided on a proposal to extend grocery store sales to include wines up to 15% alcohol content. In a recent Yle survey of 100 MPs, 67 legislators opposed the change, while only 28 supported it. Five MPs declined to state a position.
Critics argue that expanding wine sales would undermine the state monopoly Alko, potentially increasing alcohol-related harms and healthcare costs. A recent government report also warned that such a move could weaken Alko’s business and its role in regulating consumption.
Supporters, particularly among National Coalition Party (Kansallinen Kokoomus) members, claim that allowing wine in grocery stores would boost consumer convenience and align Finland with practices in other European territories.
Cultural shift driving the decline in alcohol use
Finland has seen a steady reduction in alcohol consumption since 2007, and recent trends indicate that this is more than just a policy issue. Changing attitudes toward health, an increasing interest in non-alcoholic alternatives, and broader wellbeing culture appear to be playing pivotal roles.
Despite looser restrictions on alcohol sales, Finns are drinking less, and public sentiment still leans toward caution regarding further deregulation. As Finland continues to navigate these changes, the balance between individual freedom, public health, and economic interest remains a central concern.
