Alcohol Availability Restriction Policy and Changes in Consumer Behavior in Lithuania in 2016–2019

To reduce alcohol consumption, in 2018 the Lithuanian Government introduced new restrictions on sales time, consumer age, and advertising. These apply to entire population, regardless of consumption behavior. Such actions government were provoked by scale problem; according data provided World Health Organization European Union Commission, Lithuania sits among leading countries consumption.The policies taken are described many economists as paternalistic, they an individual’s freedom decision. The aim this paper is evaluate changes behavior after regulatory measures entered into force public attitude towards these based research results.This article presents results a study first conducted December 2016 researchers Faculty Economics Vilnius University representatives Business Confederation*. was distinguish different groups consumers their attitudes restriction policies.** achieve aim, analysis scientific papers, population survey, statistical methods used.The authors conclude that policies, met with relatively favorable attitude, may have adjusted levels its patterns, but increase number young people not line expected policy outcomes. adopted did encourage respondents give up longer term (12 months).