Can You Buy Alcohol in Singapore? Everything You Need to Know!

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, you might be wondering if you can buy alcohol in the country. The good news is that you can purchase alcohol in Singapore, but there are some regulations and restrictions that you need to be aware of.

A store clerk sells alcohol to a customer in Singapore

The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18 years old, which means that only individuals aged 18 and above will be allowed to purchase and/or consume alcoholic beverages in Singaporean establishments licensed to sell alcohol, such as restaurants and supermarkets. It’s important to note that the law is strictly enforced, and you may be asked to show identification to prove your age before purchasing alcohol.

If you’re visiting Singapore and plan on purchasing alcohol, it’s important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions in place. For example, drinking is banned in all public places from 10.30 pm to 7 am, and retail shops are not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol during this time. Additionally, there are restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol during certain events and holidays, such as the Lunar New Year.

Key Takeaways

  • The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18 years old, and the law is strictly enforced.
  • Drinking is banned in all public places from 10.30 pm to 7 am, and retail shops are not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol during this time.
  • It’s important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions in place when purchasing and consuming alcohol in Singapore.

Purchasing Alcohol in Singapore

A customer at a liquor store in Singapore selects bottles from shelves with various types of alcohol on display

If you are looking to buy alcohol in Singapore, there are several options available to you. In this section, we will explore the different ways you can purchase alcohol in Singapore, including retail outlets, online delivery services, and licensed premises.

Retail Outlets and Duty-Free Shops

Retail outlets and duty-free shops are a popular choice for purchasing alcohol in Singapore. These outlets offer a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, from wine and beer to spirits and liqueurs. Prices can vary depending on the type of alcohol and the location of the outlet, but you can expect to pay around $20-$30 for a bottle of wine and $40-$50 for a bottle of spirits.

Duty-free shops are also a great option for purchasing alcohol in Singapore. These shops are located in airports and offer tax-free prices on alcohol and other goods. However, you must be flying out of Singapore to be eligible for duty-free prices.

Online Alcohol Delivery Services

Online alcohol delivery services are becoming increasingly popular in Singapore. These services offer a convenient way to purchase alcohol from the comfort of your own home. You can browse a wide range of alcoholic beverages on their websites and have them delivered straight to your doorstep.

Most online alcohol delivery services in Singapore offer same-day or next-day delivery, making it a great option for those who need alcohol quickly. Prices can vary depending on the type of alcohol and the delivery location, but you can expect to pay around $10-$20 for delivery.

Licensed Premises and Public Places

Licensed premises and public places are another option for purchasing alcohol in Singapore. These include restaurants, clubs, pubs, coffee shops, and hotels. However, it’s important to note that there are strict laws and regulations in place regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol in these places.

If you’re planning on drinking alcohol in a licensed premise or public place, you must be at least 18 years old. You may also be required to provide identification to prove your age. Additionally, there are liquor control zones in place in certain areas of Singapore, which prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol during certain times.

In conclusion, there are several ways you can purchase alcohol in Singapore, including retail outlets, online delivery services, and licensed premises. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Regulations and Restrictions

A sign outside a store in Singapore displays "Alcohol Sales Restricted" with a list of regulations underneath

When it comes to buying and consuming alcohol in Singapore, there are several regulations and restrictions that you should be aware of. Below are some of the most important regulations that you should keep in mind.

Legal Drinking Age and Underage Drinking

The legal drinking age in Singapore is 18 years old. This means that if you are under the age of 18, you are not allowed to buy or consume alcoholic beverages in any premises licensed to sell alcohol. It is also important to note that underage drinking is not criminalized in Singapore, but it is still frowned upon.

Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act

The Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act was introduced in 2015 to regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol in Singapore. The act requires all premises that sell alcohol to obtain a liquor license, and it also restricts the sale of alcohol during certain hours. Retail shops are not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol from 10.30pm to 7am, and drinking in public places is banned from 10.30pm to 7am.

Drinking in Public Places and Time Restrictions

Drinking in public places is banned in Singapore from 10.30pm to 7am. This ban applies to all public places, including parks, beaches, and streets. If you are caught drinking in public during these hours, you may be fined up to $1,000. The government has also designated certain areas in Singapore as liquor control zones, such as Little India and Geylang, where additional restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol apply.

It is important to note that drink-driving is taken very seriously in Singapore and can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and even caning. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid drinking and driving altogether.

Overall, it is important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions surrounding the sale and consumption of alcohol in Singapore. By following these regulations, you can enjoy alcohol responsibly while avoiding any fines or penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

A bustling Singapore street with a prominent sign reading "Alcohol for Sale" in bold letters. People of various nationalities are seen browsing the shelves of a nearby convenience store

What are the timings for purchasing alcohol at supermarkets in Singapore?

Supermarkets in Singapore are allowed to sell alcohol from 7 am to 10:30 pm every day. However, this timing may vary depending on the specific store. It’s best to check with the store directly to confirm their timings.

Is there a specific age requirement for drinking legally in Singapore?

Yes, the legal drinking age in Singapore is 18 years old. Only individuals aged 18 and above are permitted to purchase and/or consume alcoholic beverages in Singapore. Underage drinking is a serious offence in Singapore, and those caught drinking underage may face fines, penalties, and even jail time.

Can tourists partake in buying alcoholic beverages while visiting Singapore?

Yes, tourists are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol in Singapore as long as they are above 18 years old. However, it’s important to note that alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited from 10:30 pm to 7 am.

Are there any online options to get alcohol delivered in Singapore?

Yes, there are several online platforms available that offer alcohol delivery in Singapore. Prime Liquor is a popular option that provides a wide selection of booze at affordable prices and delivers within 45 minutes.

What’s the latest scoop on Singapore’s liquor laws?

In Singapore, drinking in public places is banned from 10:30 pm to 7 am. Retail shops are not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol during the same hours. Additionally, driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and may result in fines, imprisonment, and even revocation of your driving license.

Does 7-Eleven in Singapore follow particular hours for alcohol sales?

Yes, 7-Eleven stores in Singapore follow the same rules as other retail shops. They are not allowed to sell takeaway alcohol from 10:30 pm to 7 am. However, they are permitted to sell alcohol during their regular operating hours, which may vary depending on the store location. It’s best to check with the specific store for their timings.

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