Alcohol sales decline in Russia.

According to Vadim Drobiz, head of the nation’s alcohol market research center, the sales of strong distilled spirits and other alcoholic beverages dropped by approximately 15% in the first nine months of 2009 compared to the same period last year.

Calling attention to the gravity of the situation, earlier reports have stated that nearly half a million Russians succumb annually to alcohol abuse. President Dmitry Medvedev has thus been working to raise awareness and support for effective programs, with some groups that have been advocating a raise in the legal drinking age as well.

A big bravo, Your Excellency and the people of Russia, for this encouraging trend of reduced alcohol consumption. We look forward to seeing all countries free of harmful intoxicants as these, with global inhabitants flourishing in clear-minded happiness and vitality.

Reference:

http://en.rian.ru/business/20091203/157077968.html

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,4920893,00.html