Poland’s parliament passed legislation banning night-time retail alcohol sales nationwide, prohibiting advertising of all alcoholic drinks, including beer, and doubling alcohol sales licence fees on October 8.

The legislation marks a significant tightening of Poland’s alcohol regulations, potentially affecting retailers, breweries and advertising companies. It extends existing restrictions on alcohol sales and promotion as policymakers seek to reduce alcohol consumption and its associated health costs.

The Sejm approved the bill by 400 votes to 29, with four abstentions, according to voting records

Under the legislation, shops and petrol stations would be prohibited from selling alcohol between 10pm and 6am. Restaurants and bars would be exempt, while municipalities could impose additional restrictions.

The advertising ban would cover beer, currently the only alcoholic beverage permitted to be advertised under certain conditions. Violations could attract fines of up to PLN1mn or restrictions on personal liberty.

The legislation would also double annual alcohol sales licence fees and require retailers to verify customers’ ages when in doubt. Alcohol packaging would have to carry health warnings, PAP reported

The bill, sponsored by the Left and amended during parliamentary proceedings, now goes to the Senate before requiring President Karol Nawrocki’s signature. It is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.