Finland's parliamentary committees are currently debating a proposal to extend Alko's opening hours to include Sundays and public holidays. The government coalition parties support the measure despite personal reservations from some members.
Mia Laiho, a National Coalition Party MP and medical doctor serving as vice-chair of the Social and Health Committee, personally opposes increasing alcohol availability but acknowledges the government must follow its program. She confirmed the committee will consider the proposal while focusing on health impacts and vulnerable populations.
The push for extended hours comes from both domestic policy considerations and European Union requirements. Finland's state-owned alcohol retail monopoly Alko currently faces competition from foreign online retailers that can deliver stronger alcoholic beverages directly to consumers seven days a week. The Economic Committee has already backed the extended hours to create what Laiho calls a level playing field.
Finland's alcohol retail system has long been distinctive among Nordic countries. While Norway maintains similar monopoly structures, Sweden and Denmark have more liberal approaches to alcohol sales. The proposed changes represent another step in Finland's gradual alcohol policy liberalization that began with joining the European Union in 1995.
Laiho emphasizes several practical considerations must be addressed. Delivery protocols need clear safety standards including identity verification, ensuring alcohol isn't provided to intoxicated persons, and preventing minors from accessing deliveries. She notes these practical safeguards matter as much as the theoretical health impacts.
The Christian Democrats have secured an exemption allowing them to vote according to conscience on alcohol matters. Party member Päivi Räsänen has already expressed opposition to extending Alko's hours within the Social and Health Committee deliberations.
Despite her medical background and personal reservations, Laiho maintains the reforms won't collapse public health. She points to declining overall alcohol consumption in Finland and notes that heavy drinkers already find ways to obtain alcohol regardless of retail hours. The concentration of consumption among smaller groups means extended hours likely won't dramatically change drinking patterns.
The debate highlights Finland's ongoing balancing act between Nordic alcohol control traditions and European market integration. As one of Europe's last alcohol retail monopolies, Alko faces constant pressure to adapt while maintaining its public health mission. The current proposal represents incremental change rather than wholesale system reform.
What comes next for Finland alcohol law changes? The Social and Health Committee will continue deliberations with special attention to minimizing health harms. Their recommendations will then proceed to full parliamentary consideration. The outcome will signal whether Finland continues its gradual alcohol policy liberalization or maintains stricter controls than its Nordic neighbors.