Commerce Minister issues decision regulating sale, distribution of energy drinks

2026-03-18 - 17:34

Minister of Commerce and Industry Osama Boodai, issued a ministerial decision regulating the sale and distribution of energy drinks in the country, including a ban on sales to persons under 18 years of age. The decision included restricting sales to designated outlets, prohibiting sales in certain public locations, banning advertising and promotion, and imposing penalties on violators. In a statement for KUNA, the ministry said Ministerial Decision No. 29 of 2026 aims to regulate the sale and distribution of energy drinks and establish clear controls to protect consumers. The ministry noted that the decision bans sales via external ordering platforms and delivery services, as well as advertising, promotion, marketing, or commercial sponsorship of energy drinks through any media, electronic means, or social media platforms. It also prohibits companies and their agents from sponsoring or supporting events that promote the product, and establishes penalties including warnings, temporary administrative closure, or license cancellation in case of repeated violations. The decision further bans the sale or distribution of energy drinks to people under the age of 18 and prohibits drinks that exceed the permitted caffeine limit or fail to meet approved health standards. A maximum daily consumption of two cans per person is set, and producers or suppliers are required to display clear health warnings on the packaging. Sales are limited to cooperative societies and regulated markets under strict supervision by relevant authorities. The decision also bans the sale, offering, or distribution of energy drinks within government entities, public institutions, sports clubs, and educational institutions at all levels, including public and private colleges and universities, as well as restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, juice shops, food carts, and self-service machines. Energy drinks are defined as non-alcoholic, non-carbonated beverages containing high caffeine levels of no less than 80 mg per 250 ml, from natural or manufactured sources, and may include other stimulants such as taurine, inositol, or glucuronolactone, in addition to sugars, vitamins, minerals, or amino acids. The decision repeals Ministerial Decision No. 558 of 2012 and No. 470 of 2013, along with any provisions contradicting its terms, and comes into effect from the date of issuance, to be published in the Official Gazette. – Kuna