TEKEL alcohol monopoly

28.5.2003

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1949/03
by Christa Randzio-Plath (PSE)
to the Commission

Imports of beer and spirits into Turkey currently face considerable difficulties since, despite the EC‑Turkey Association Council of 22 December 1995 on implementation of the final phase of the customs union, Turkey has still not abolished the TEKEL alcohol monopoly. It is true that the alcohol laws were modified one year ago but, firstly, the implementing regulation for the import sector has to my knowledge not yet been adopted and, secondly, it would not anyway be sufficient since, according to existing plans, imports independent of TEKEL are to be allowed only upwards of a specific minimum volume.

 

1. What is the current state of the EU’s negotiations with Turkey on proper implementation of the customs agreement in respect of the import of alcoholic drinks and, in particular, what is the position of the Turkish Government regarding the Commission’s call in the autumn of 2001 for it to ensure prompt implementation of the obligations arising out of the customs union agreement for the trade in alcoholic drinks?

 

2. Does the existing draft of the implementing regulation for the import sector constitute, in the view of the Commission, adequate implementation of the legislation on liberalisation of the market in alcohol and alcoholic drinks when measured against the objective of opening up the Turkish market to alcoholic drinks?