Advertisements encouraging consumption of alcoholic beverages or promoting the quality of alcoholic beverages are prohibited in Thailand. However, alcohol producers, importers or distributors can advertise the image of the product or promote social responsibility. (Source: IWSR)

Russia’s North Caucasus republic of Daghestan, famous for its brandies, plans to open a whisky distillery. The estimated cost of the project, which sould be recouped in three years, is €5, 9 million. The first batch f whisky from the distillery will go on sale in Russia in three years. (Source: RIA Novosti)

Anne-Marie Idrac, French Secretary for Foreign Trade said that Hong Kong has all the attributes to be the wine hub of Asia, and hopes Hong Kong succeeds in this field as she succeeds in other many fields. (Source: Vinexpo)

Scotch whisky exports earned £90 (€115) every second for the UK in 2007, with the value of shipments increasing by 14 % to reach a new record of £2.8 bn (€3,58 milliards d’euros). The export volume was also at a historic high, growing 8% with the equivalent of 1,135 million bottles of Scotch whisky shipped overseas. (Source: Scotch Whisky Association)

Hong Kong would gain French expertise and experience in wine related trade, tourism and education under an arrangement with France, the Chief Secretary, Henry Tang Ying-Yen said. The arrangement will take effect in the summer and is expected to held raise the city’s international profile in its bid to become the region’s wine hub. Speaking at the Vinexpo Asia-Pacific trade show opening, Henry Tang Ying-Yen said: “Under the arrangement, France would share with us its experience in promoting wine-related trade and tourism, as well as providing training on wine tasting”. (Source: South China Morning Post)

Mr Henry Tang, Ying-Sen, Chief Secretary for Administration, said at the Opening Ceremony of Vinexpo Asia-Pacific on Tuesday 25 May, that Hong Kong is the only duty free wine port, and told to the exhibitors and visitors “good business and every success” . (Source: Vinexpo)

An agreement is being signed by wine industry group and the South Australian Government aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions in wine production. It will be a significant way to address an overseas demand for products from environmentally-conscious winemakers. (Source: ABC News)