26% of alcohol worldwide is illicit

 

Counterfeit alcohol is a global problem, with up to 26% of alcohol consumed worldwide being illicit, according to Euromonitor.   Counterfeit alcohol harms businesses and presents significant health risks to consumers. The Fraud Advisory Panel reported that fake wine, beer, and spirits cost the European Union €3b and U.K. businesses £200M yearly, resulting in almost 3,000 lost jobs. There is evidence of activity behind the scenes to combat fraudsters. A lack of public acknowledgment by brands and businesses causes public perception to be negative.  New technology, such as packaging solutions and marks, is used to combat illicit alcohol.  The World Spirits Alliance launched a Global Roadmap on Illicit Trade, which offers recommendations for action to combat illicit trade.