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China · freely available

Alcohol Laws in China

China: alcohol is freely available.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I drink alcohol in China?

Alcohol in China is freely available. Widely available — the legal drinking age is 18, though it's not strictly enforced.

Where can I buy alcohol in China?

Widely available — the legal drinking age is 18, though it's not strictly enforced.

Is there a legal drinking age in China?

Yes — check the specific age noted above, and carry ID, since many venues check regardless of how relaxed local drinking culture seems.

Are there times when alcohol sales are banned in China?

Possibly — some countries ban retail alcohol sales on election days or during specific religious periods like Ramadan, even where alcohol is otherwise freely available. Check close to your travel dates if this could affect you.