Finland bans whisky from expo name

Beer and Whisky Expo Finland 2014 has been told to drop the whisky from its name because it violates liquor advertising laws.

It's a whisky trade fair. But it can't say it is.

Authorities in Finland have ordered the Beer and Whisky Expo Finland 2014 to change its name, arguing it violates Finland's law against advertising liquor.

Organisers say next week's event will now be called simply a beer expo, since advertising mild alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine, is allowed.

Chief organiser Mikki Nyman said Monday the decision "smacks of typical patronising attitudes" of bureaucrats.

Finland, known for its heavy drinkers, has a state-controlled alcohol monopoly.

Jarmo Oresmaa, inspector at the regional state administrative agency that gave permission for the event, said on Monday the original name of the expo advertised the drinking of whisky, which is illegal.


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