OREANDA-NEWS. February 08, 2012. The Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS Russia) is concerned about possible adverse consequences of adopting the Regulations of the Customs Union “On Safety of Alcohol Products” in the existing wording, in particular, for developing competition on the markets of sales of malt and brewing products. This statement was made by Deputy Head of FAS Russia, Pavel Subbotin, at an extended meeting of the Committee of the Council of Federation on Agrarian and Food Policy and Environmental Management, reported the press-centre of FAS Russia.

According to FAS Russia, changing a definition of beer, prohibiting use of PET-packaging, circulation of glass packaging, that are provided for by the draft Regulations, as well as а passed law on circulation of alcohol products will have negative impact in the field of environment, energy saving, attracting investments.

Adopting the proposed version of the Regulations will result in reducing the scope of barley cultivation, domestic production of malt, decreasing the number of well-known beer brands, as well as the number of working places.

“It will adversely affect the state of competition on the markets of beer and malt in the Russian Federation”, expressed his confidence Deputy Head of FAS Russia.

FAS proposals towards stimulating and development of these sectors of the economy at the federal and regional level are included in the draft decision of the Council of Federation.