Alcohol Policy in Germany: Missed Opportunities to Lower Alcohol's Health Burden

Upon the release of the third edition of the book "Alcohol: no ordinary commodity", the authors evaluated the implementation of cost-effective alcohol policies in Germany. Method: Current legal regulations and practices addressing four policy areas were reviewed: (1) pricing and taxation policies; (2) regulating physical availability; (3) restrictions of alcohol marketing; and (4) drink-driving countermeasures. Results: Compared to other European countries, excise duties on alcoholic beverages and particularly on beer and wine are low and barely lower alcohol affordability. With few exceptions, alcoholic beverages can be purchased at any time and various retail venues (e. g., grocery stores, petrol stations). Restrictions on alcohol marketing are limited to youth protection and the portrayal of 'abusive' alcohol use. The recommended countermeasures to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol have been largely implemented. Conclusion: Cost-effective alcohol policies are insufficiently implemented in Germany, despite their potential to substantially lower the alcohol-related health burden.