The Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) has revoked all import licences for neutral spirit (ethanol) and suspended the processing of new import applications, citing the need to protect public health.
In a regulatory notice issued under Law No. 003/2018, which establishes the Rwanda FDA and outlines its mandate, the authority announced that all previously issued import licences for neutral spirit are no longer valid with immediate effect.
The regulator also said that all pending applications to import neutral spirit, commonly known as ethanol, have been suspended until further notice. The directive applies to manufacturers, importers, retailers and the general public.
The move comes as the Rwandan government intensifies its nationwide crackdown on the illegal production and distribution of unauthorized alcoholic beverages, amid growing concerns over public health and consumer safety. Authorities have in recent days stepped up inspections and enforcement measures targeting illicit brewing operations and unregulated alcohol products.
While the Rwanda FDA did not specify whether the latest directive is directly linked to the ongoing enforcement campaign, it said the measures were taken in the interest of public health, signalling tighter regulatory oversight of products containing or derived from ethanol.
Neutral spirit is widely used in the manufacture of alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and other industrial products. However, authorities have raised concerns that it can also be diverted for the illegal production of unsafe alcoholic drinks.
The Rwanda FDA has not indicated when the suspension may be lifted or whether additional regulatory measures will follow. Businesses involved in the importation or use of neutral spirit are expected to comply with the directive pending further guidance from the regulator.
