Abstract
This study aimed to analyze gaps of alcoholic beverage laws and regulations in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam (CLMV). Using qualitative approaches with the Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol as a framework, we conducted a document research on laws and regulations implemented before 28 February 2017. The most popular laws and policies of CLMV focus on 1) taxation, 2) blood alcohol concentration limits, 3) restriction on alcohol advertising, and 4) national surveillance. The main policy gaps found in this study included: lack of national leadership and commitment on alcohol policy, lack of control between on-premise and off-premise sales of alcoholic beverages; regulations on alcoholic beverage marketing, sales promotion and product placement; and responsible beverage services training measures. Other key policy gaps included a lack of efficient and effective enforcement, especially control of illegal alcoholic beverages. Promulgation of the overarching national alcohol policy legislation and establishment of national alcohol control committees with participation from several sectors and further cooperation with other stakeholders to tackle illegal alcoholic beverages are recommended.
