Testing of liquor advertising remains free for industry
The spirits industry should continue to be able to submit its advertising designs to the Federal Administration for review free of charge. After the National Council, the Council of States also adopted a motion to this effect on Tuesday by 35 votes to 7.
For years, the spirits industry has voluntarily submitted its advertising drafts to the Federal Alcohol Board for a preliminary review. The Directorate General of Customs wants to make this preliminary review subject to a fee.
With the adoption of the motion by Parliament, however, the Federal Council is now being asked to refrain from introducing a fee.
A majority in the Council of States took the view that this approach would prevent advertisers from having to decide for themselves whether their advertising violates the Alcohol Act in ambiguous cases. It also believes that easier access to this service is necessary to prevent excessive alcohol consumption.
Finance Minister Ueli Maurer argued in vain that the introduction of a levy could slow down the number of applications. Every year, more and more advertising proposals are submitted to the administration. The advertising industry could also carry out this examination itself. The criteria for permissible advertising are clearly set out. "Anyone who incurs costs should also pay them."
The National Council had already clearly approved the motion in 2019. The motion goes to the Federal Council. (SDA)
