Côte d’Ivoire: Ban on alcoholic energy drinks needs to be reviewed

The extended ban on alcoholic energy drinks in Côte d’Ivoire continues to stir controversy. Following the circular suspending imports of these beverages until December 31, 2023, merchants are feeling the financial pinch.

Authorities justify the measure by citing public health concerns, particularly the alarming rise in the consumption of Tramadol combined with alcoholic energy drinks.

However, critics argue that this measure fails to address the root problem: Tramadol.

This medication, often misused beyond its medical purpose, has been destroying lives for years.

The ban on alcoholic energy drinks does not tackle the core issue. Tramadol can be mixed with whiskey, wine, other alcoholic beverages, or even water, producing effects similar to those of alcoholic energy drinks.

It is crucial for Ivorian authorities to be transparent with the public. Banning alcoholic energy drinks merely obscures the real issue: uncontrolled Tramadol consumption.

Furthermore, there are suspicions that the ban might be influenced by pressures from breweries and importers who view these drinks as a competitive threat.

Consumers, undeterred by the ban, are resorting to mixing alcohol with energy drinks themselves to create homemade versions of alcoholic energy drinks.

This DIY approach poses significant safety risks and undermines the ban’s intended purpose.

The Ivorian authorities must reconsider their strategy and focus on the genuine problem: Tramadol.

By addressing the misuse of this drug, they can effectively safeguard public health while avoiding the pitfalls of unfair market competition.