The Evin Law

The Evin Law, adopted in 1991 , is a key piece of legislation in France that aims to regulate the advertising and consumption of alcohol and tobacco, with a view to ensuring public health . Here are its main provisions and impacts:

1. Strict regulation of alcohol advertising

The Évin Law prohibits any advertising that excessively promotes alcohol or associates it with positive values such as social success, sports, or seduction. It imposes strict rules regarding the content of advertisements:

• Only objective information on the product is authorized (origin, composition, manufacturing method, alcohol content, etc.).
• The media authorized for advertising are limited : written press (excluding publications aimed at young people), radio (with time restrictions), advertising displays under conditions, internet (within a regulated framework).
• Advertising is prohibited on television, in cinemas, and in stadiums during sporting events.

2. Mandatory information

All advertisements must include a health message , such as: “Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.”

3. Smoking Restrictions

In addition to alcohol, the Évin law also strengthened the fight against smoking , by banning all forms of advertising or sponsorship in favor of tobacco, and by expanding restrictions on smoking in public places .

4. Consequences and sanctions

• Any advertising that does not comply with the law is punishable by heavy fines .
• Sporting campaigns and events funded by alcohol brands may be banned due to sponsorship restrictions.
• Some brands have had to adapt their marketing strategy to stay on track.

5. Developments and criticisms

• In 2015, the Évin Law was relaxed to differentiate between advertising and wine information . From now on, a press article discussing a wine or spirit is no longer considered advertising, which has allowed some flexibility for the wine sector.
• However, it remains controversial, particularly between public health advocates and economic players in the wine and brewing sector.