The price of drinks

It has been suggested that taxes on alcoholic drinks should be drastically increased to reduce binge drinking.

In Sweden, alcoholic drinks can only be purchased from Systembolaget, with one exception, lättöl (weak, full flavoured lager) with an alcohol content of 3.5%, which is available from supermarkets and is modestly priced. Anyone would have to drink an awful lot to get drunk.

Whilst there is much to be said against having a state monopoly retailer, making a distinction between 3.5% drinks and stronger ones could indicate a way forward.

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