Are you curious about the drinking culture and laws in different countries? Do you want to know where you can legally drink alcohol at any age? If so, you might be interested in this article, where we will reveal the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world. You might be surprised by some of the countries on this list, as well as the reasons why they have no legal drinking age or a very low one.
Top 10 Countries with No Drinking Age in the World
You will also learn about the pros and cons of having no drinking age, and how it affects the health and behavior of young people and society. Whether you are a traveler, a student, or a drinker, this article will give you some useful and fascinating information about alcohol consumption around the world.
What is a legal drinking age?
A legal drinking age is the minimum age at which a person can legally consume alcoholic beverages. The minimum age alcohol can be legally consumed can be different from the age when it can be purchased in some countries. These laws vary between countries and many laws have exemptions or special circumstances. Most laws apply only to drinking alcohol in public places, with alcohol consumption in the home being mostly unregulated. Some countries also have different age limits for different types of alcoholic drinks.
Why do some countries have no drinking age?
There are various reasons why some countries have no drinking age or a very low one. Some of these reasons include:
- Cultural or religious traditions view alcohol as a normal part of life or a sacred substance.
- Lack of enforcement or resources to regulate alcohol sales and consumption.
- Economic or political factors that favor the interests of the alcohol industry or tourism.
- Social or health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, such as reducing stress, enhancing social bonds, or preventing cardiovascular diseases.
What are the pros and cons of having no drinking age?
Having no drinking age or a low one can have both positive and negative effects on individuals and society. Some of the pros and cons are:
Pros:
- It respects the autonomy and maturity of young people to make their own decisions about alcohol consumption.
- It reduces the appeal and risks of underage drinking, such as binge drinking, drunk driving, or alcohol poisoning.
- It fosters a culture of responsible drinking and moderation, rather than prohibition and excess.
- It allows young people to learn from their parents or peers how to drink safely and sensibly.
Cons:
- It exposes young people to the harmful effects of alcohol on their physical and mental health, such as brain damage, liver disease, addiction, depression, or violence.
- It increases the chances of young people engaging in risky behaviors or crimes under the influence of alcohol, such as sexual assault, vandalism, or theft.
- It undermines the authority and guidance of parents or educators who want to protect young people from alcohol abuse.
- It contradicts the scientific evidence that shows that the brain is not fully developed until the mid-20s and that alcohol can impair its development.
What are the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world?
Here are the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world as of 2023:
- Armenia: This former Soviet republic has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Armenia, especially wine and brandy, which are part of its cultural heritage.
- Cambodia: This Southeast Asian country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is easily accessible and affordable in Cambodia, especially beer and rice wine, which are popular among locals and tourists alike.
- Morocco: This North African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is legal but restricted in Morocco, as it is predominantly a Muslim country that follows Islamic law. Alcohol is mainly consumed by non-Muslims or foreigners in designated areas, such as hotels or restaurants.
- Antigua and Barbuda: This Caribbean island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Antigua and Barbuda, especially rum and beer, which are part of its tourism industry.
- Bolivia: This South American country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is common and cheap in Bolivia, especially beer and chicha, which are traditional fermented drinks made from corn or other grains.
- Dominica: This Caribbean island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is readily available and consumed in Dominica, especially rum and beer, which are part of its culture and economy.
- Ghana: This West African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is prevalent and inexpensive in Ghana, especially beer and palm wine, which are local beverages made from fermented palm sap.
- Solomon Islands: This Pacific island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 21 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is legal but limited in the Solomon Islands, as it is subject to high taxes and regulations. Alcohol is mainly consumed by adults or foreigners in urban areas, such as hotels or clubs.
- Togo: This West African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is abundant and affordable in Togo, especially beer and tchoukoutou, which are local drinks made from fermented millet or sorghum.
- Vietnam: This Southeast Asian country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Vietnam, especially beer and rice wine, which are part of its cuisine and social life.
Conclusion
Drinking alcohol is a personal choice that can have both positive and negative consequences depending on how much, how often, and how responsibly one drinks. Different countries have different laws and norms about when and how people can drink alcohol, ranging from prohibition to no restriction at all. In this article, we have listed the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world as of 2023, based on the latest information available. However, these countries may still have other rules or customs that regulate alcohol consumption, such as minimum age for purchase or service, taxation, licensing, or religious beliefs. Therefore, it is important to be aware and respectful of the local culture and laws when traveling to these countries and drinking alcohol.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Q: What is the lowest legal drinking age in the world?
A: The lowest legal drinking age in the world is 13 years old, which applies only to wine and beer in Burkina Faso.
Q: What is the highest legal drinking age in the world?
A: The highest legal drinking age in the world is 25 years old, which applies only to spirits in Sri Lanka.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 21?
A: The most notable country that has a legal drinking age of 21 is the United States of America. Other countries that have a legal drinking age of 21 include Egypt, Indonesia (except Banda Aceh and Papua), Iraq, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan (except non-Muslims), Qatar (except non-Muslims), Samoa, Sri Lanka (except wine and beer), Tajikistan (except wine), Turkmenistan (except wine), Uzbekistan (except wine), and Yemen.
Q: Which countries have banned alcohol completely?
A: The countries that have banned alcohol completely are Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh (except non-Muslims), Brunei Darussalam (except non-Muslim adults who can import limited amounts for home consumption), Comoros (except non-Muslims), India (in some provinces), Iran, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives (except tourists 18-up), Saudi Arabia (except non-Muslims who can import limited amounts for home consumption), Somalia (except Somaliland), Sudan (except non-Muslims), and United Arab Emirates (in some emirates).
Q: Which countries have different legal drinking ages for different types of alcohol?
A: The countries that have different legal drinking ages for different types of alcohol include Austria (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Belgium (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Denmark (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Finland (20 for spirits, 18 for wine and beer), Germany (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Greece (18 for spirits, 17 for wine and beer), Italy (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Luxembourg (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Malta (17 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Morocco (16 for all types of alcohol except spirits which are prohibited), Portugal (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Spain (18 for spirits, 16 or 17 depending on the region for wine and beer), Switzerland (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Turkey (18 for spirits except raki which is prohibited).
Q: Which countries have no minimum age for purchasing alcohol?
A: The countries that have no minimum age for purchasing alcohol are Armenia, Cambodia, Dominica, Ghana, Solomon Islands, Togo, and Vietnam. However, some of these countries may have a minimum age for being served in bars or other public places.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 18?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 18 are Albania, Andorra, Australia, Austria (for spirits), Belgium (for spirits), Bolivia, Cabo Verde/Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland (for wine and beer), France, Georgia, Ghana (for being served in bars), Greece (for spirits), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy (for spirits), Jamaica, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia (North), Malta (for spirits), Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands (for spirits), New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria (except Muslims), Norway (for wine and beer), Panama (except Muslims), Paraguay, Peru (except Muslims), Poland, Portugal (for spirits), Romania, Russia (except Muslims), Serbia, Singapore (except Muslims), Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa (except Muslims), Spain (for spirits), Sweden (for wine and beer), Thailand (except Muslims), Togo (for being served in bars), Ukraine (except Muslims), United Kingdom (except Scotland where it is 16 for wine and beer with a meal), Uruguay (except Muslims), Venezuela (except Muslims), Vietnam (for being served in bars), Zambia (except Muslims).
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 19?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 19 are Canada (except Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec where it is 18), Dominica (for being served in bars), and South Korea.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 20?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 20 are Finland (for spirits), Iceland (for spirits), Japan.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 25?
A: The only country that has a legal drinking age of 25 is Sri Lanka (for spirits). However, the legal drinking age for wine and beer is 21.
Are you curious about the drinking culture and laws in different countries? Do you want to know where you can legally drink alcohol at any age? If so, you might be interested in this article, where we will reveal the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world. You might be surprised by some of the countries on this list, as well as the reasons why they have no legal drinking age or a very low one.
Top 10 Countries with No Drinking Age in the World
You will also learn about the pros and cons of having no drinking age, and how it affects the health and behavior of young people and society. Whether you are a traveler, a student, or a drinker, this article will give you some useful and fascinating information about alcohol consumption around the world.
What is a legal drinking age?
A legal drinking age is the minimum age at which a person can legally consume alcoholic beverages. The minimum age alcohol can be legally consumed can be different from the age when it can be purchased in some countries. These laws vary between countries and many laws have exemptions or special circumstances. Most laws apply only to drinking alcohol in public places, with alcohol consumption in the home being mostly unregulated. Some countries also have different age limits for different types of alcoholic drinks.
Why do some countries have no drinking age?
There are various reasons why some countries have no drinking age or a very low one. Some of these reasons include:
- Cultural or religious traditions that view alcohol as a normal part of life or a sacred substance.
- Lack of enforcement or resources to regulate alcohol sales and consumption.
- Economic or political factors that favor the interests of the alcohol industry or tourism.
- Social or health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, such as reducing stress, enhancing social bonds, or preventing cardiovascular diseases.
What are the pros and cons of having no drinking age?
Having no drinking age or a low one can have both positive and negative effects on individuals and society. Some of the pros and cons are:
Pros:
- It respects the autonomy and maturity of young people to make their own decisions about alcohol consumption.
- It reduces the appeal and risks of underage drinking, such as binge drinking, drunk driving, or alcohol poisoning.
- It fosters a culture of responsible drinking and moderation, rather than prohibition and excess.
- It allows young people to learn from their parents or peers how to drink safely and sensibly.
Cons:
- It exposes young people to the harmful effects of alcohol on their physical and mental health, such as brain damage, liver disease, addiction, depression, or violence.
- It increases the chances of young people engaging in risky behaviors or crimes under the influence of alcohol, such as sexual assault, vandalism, or theft.
- It undermines the authority and guidance of parents or educators who want to protect young people from alcohol abuse.
- It contradicts the scientific evidence that shows that the brain is not fully developed until the mid-20s and that alcohol can impair its development.
What are the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world?
Here are the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world as of 2023:
- Armenia: This former Soviet republic has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Armenia, especially wine and brandy, which are part of its cultural heritage.
- Cambodia: This Southeast Asian country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is easily accessible and affordable in Cambodia, especially beer and rice wine, which are popular among locals and tourists alike.
- Morocco: This North African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is legal but restricted in Morocco, as it is predominantly a Muslim country that follows Islamic law. Alcohol is mainly consumed by non-Muslims or foreigners in designated areas, such as hotels or restaurants.
- Antigua and Barbuda: This Caribbean island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Antigua and Barbuda, especially rum and beer, which are part of its tourism industry.
- Bolivia: This South American country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is common and cheap in Bolivia, especially beer and chicha, which are traditional fermented drinks made from corn or other grains.
- Dominica: This Caribbean island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 16 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is readily available and consumed in Dominica, especially rum and beer, which are part of its culture and economy.
- Ghana: This West African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is prevalent and inexpensive in Ghana, especially beer and palm wine, which are local beverages made from fermented palm sap.
- Solomon Islands: This Pacific island nation has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 21 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is legal but limited in the Solomon Islands, as it is subject to high taxes and regulations. Alcohol is mainly consumed by adults or foreigners in urban areas, such as hotels or clubs.
- Togo: This West African country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is abundant and affordable in Togo, especially beer and tchoukoutou, which are local drinks made from fermented millet or sorghum.
- Vietnam: This Southeast Asian country has no legal drinking age for any type of alcohol. However, there is a minimum age of 18 for purchasing alcohol or being served in bars. Alcohol is widely available and consumed in Vietnam, especially beer and rice wine, which are part of its cuisine and social life.
Conclusion
Drinking alcohol is a personal choice that can have both positive and negative consequences depending on how much, how often, and how responsibly one drinks. Different countries have different laws and norms about when and how people can drink alcohol, ranging from prohibition to no restriction at all. In this article, we have listed the top 10 countries with no drinking age in the world as of 2023, based on the latest information available. However, these countries may still have other rules or customs that regulate alcohol consumption, such as minimum age for purchase or service, taxation, licensing, or religious beliefs. Therefore, it is important to be aware and respectful of the local culture and laws when traveling to these countries and drinking alcohol.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Q: What is the lowest legal drinking age in the world?
A: The lowest legal drinking age in the world is 13 years old, which applies only to wine and beer in Burkina Faso.
Q: What is the highest legal drinking age in the world?
A: The highest legal drinking age in the world is 25 years old, which applies only to spirits in Sri Lanka.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 21?
A: The most notable country that has a legal drinking age of 21 is the United States of America. Other countries that have a legal drinking age of 21 include Egypt, Indonesia (except Banda Aceh and Papua), Iraq, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan (except non-Muslims), Qatar (except non-Muslims), Samoa, Sri Lanka (except wine and beer), Tajikistan (except wine), Turkmenistan (except wine), Uzbekistan (except wine), and Yemen.
Q: Which countries have banned alcohol completely?
A: The countries that have banned alcohol completely are Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh (except non-Muslims), Brunei Darussalam (except non-Muslim adults who can import limited amounts for home consumption), Comoros (except non-Muslims), India (in some provinces), Iran, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives (except tourists 18-up), Saudi Arabia (except non-Muslims who can import limited amounts for home consumption), Somalia (except Somaliland), Sudan (except non-Muslims), and United Arab Emirates (in some emirates).
Q: Which countries have different legal drinking ages for different types of alcohol?
A: The countries that have different legal drinking ages for different types of alcohol include Austria (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Belgium (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Denmark (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Finland (20 for spirits, 18 for wine and beer), Germany (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Greece (18 for spirits, 17 for wine and beer), Italy (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Luxembourg (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Malta (17 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Morocco (16 for all types of alcohol except spirits which are prohibited), Portugal (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Spain (18 for spirits, 16 or 17 depending on the region for wine and beer), Switzerland (18 for spirits, 16 for wine and beer), Turkey (18 for spirits except raki which is prohibited).
Q: Which countries have no minimum age for purchasing alcohol?
A: The countries that have no minimum age for purchasing alcohol are Armenia, Cambodia, Dominica, Ghana, Solomon Islands, Togo, and Vietnam. However, some of these countries may have a minimum age for being served in bars or other public places.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 18?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 18 are Albania, Andorra, Australia, Austria (for spirits), Belgium (for spirits), Bolivia, Cabo Verde/Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland (for wine and beer), France, Georgia, Ghana (for being served in bars), Greece (for spirits), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy (for spirits), Jamaica, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia (North), Malta (for spirits), Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands (for spirits), New Zealand, Nicaragua, Nigeria (except Muslims), Norway (for wine and beer), Panama (except Muslims), Paraguay, Peru (except Muslims), Poland, Portugal (for spirits), Romania, Russia (except Muslims), Serbia, Singapore (except Muslims), Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa (except Muslims), Spain (for spirits), Sweden (for wine and beer), Thailand (except Muslims), Togo (for being served in bars), Ukraine (except Muslims), United Kingdom (except Scotland where it is 16 for wine and beer with a meal), Uruguay (except Muslims), Venezuela (except Muslims), Vietnam (for being served in bars), Zambia (except Muslims).
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 19?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 19 are Canada (except Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec where it is 18), Dominica (for being served in bars), and South Korea.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 20?
A: The countries that have a legal drinking age of 20 are Finland (for spirits), Iceland (for spirits), Japan.
Q: Which countries have a legal drinking age of 25?
A: The only country that has a legal drinking age of 25 is Sri Lanka (for spirits). However, the legal drinking age for wine and beer is 21.