Alcohol laws in Hong Kong

Alcohol laws in Hong Kong are consistent with most common law jurisdictions, but sale of alochol is more liberal than other countries like Canada. It is strict when compared to China (prior to 2006) and Macau where there is no legal drinking age. [ [http://www.drinkingagelaws.com/ Drinking Laws] ] / [ [http://www.worldtravelguide.net/country/153/entertainment/Far-East-Asia/Macau.html Food and Drink] ]

Alcohol sales

Alcohol is available at licensed restaurants (any size), bars, clubs and many food retailers (mostly supermarkets). The Liquor Licensing Board of Hong Kong is responsible for licensing of alcohol serving establishments.

For consumption on-premises

Alcohol sales at licensed premises are prohibited from selling alcohol from 11pm to 7am. There are further restrictions if the premises are employing persons under the drinking age. There is no restriction of drinking at private residence unless it is a part involving a set number of persons and are of legal drinking age.

Drinking age

The legal drinking age in Hong Kong is 18 years old.

Drunk driving

Know as "drink driving", impaired driving in Hong Kong is strictly enforced. Hong Kong's maximum blood alcohol level (BAL) is 50mg alcohol per 100ml blood for men. [ [http://www.hkmenshealth.com/eng/lifestyle/drink.asp#6 Drink smart] ]

Fines for drivers found impaired:

* First conviction: 10 demerit-offence points or possible disqualification from driving with duration determined by the courts
* Subsequent Conviction: driving licence suspended (2 years or more) and maximum fine of HK$25,000 and up to 3 years' imprisonment.

Failure to give a sample will result in driving license suspension and prosecution.

Source: Transport Department [ [http://www.td.gov.hk/road_safety/drink_driving/the_penalties_/index.htm The Costs of Drink Driving] ]

References

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External links

* [http://www.fehd.gov.hk/LLB_web/llb_home.html Liquor Licensing Board of Hong Kong]