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Which country drinks the least?

Published in Global Alcohol Consumption 2 mins read

Which Country Drinks the Least?

Libya and Afghanistan are the countries that drink the least alcohol globally, tied with an exceptionally low per capita consumption.

According to data from August 23, 2018, Libya and Afghanistan reported the lowest per capita alcohol consumption worldwide. Each of these nations recorded an average of just 0.01 liters of alcohol consumed per person. Following closely, Yemen and Iran are tied for the second-lowest consumption, with each country's population consuming an average of 0.02 liters per capita. In third place is Pakistan, where the per capita alcohol consumption stands at 0.04 liters.

These figures represent exceptionally low levels of alcohol intake, particularly when compared to global averages. The minimal consumption in these countries is often attributed to a combination of strong religious adherence, particularly Islamic traditions which prohibit or discourage alcohol, and strict legal frameworks governing its sale and consumption.

Countries with the Lowest Alcohol Consumption (as of Aug 2018)

Rank Country Per Capita Alcohol Consumption (Liters)
1 Libya 0.01
1 Afghanistan 0.01
2 Yemen 0.02
2 Iran 0.02
3 Pakistan 0.04

Factors Influencing Low Consumption

The predominantly low alcohol consumption in these nations is deeply rooted in various cultural, religious, and legal factors. In many of these countries, the majority of the population practices Islam, a religion that prohibits the consumption of alcohol. This religious injunction significantly influences societal norms and individual behavior.

  • Religious Beliefs: Islamic teachings explicitly forbid alcohol, leading to widespread abstinence among followers.
  • Legal Restrictions: Many of these countries have strict laws, ranging from complete prohibition to severe restrictions on the production, sale, and public consumption of alcohol. These laws often reflect religious and cultural values.
  • Cultural Norms: Beyond formal laws, strong cultural norms reinforce the avoidance of alcohol, making it socially unacceptable in many contexts.

Understanding global alcohol consumption patterns provides insight into diverse societal values and regulatory environments. For further insights into global health trends and alcohol consumption data, organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) provide comprehensive statistics and reports.

This information reflects data from 2018 and offers a snapshot of per capita alcohol consumption at that time. Global consumption patterns can evolve due to changing socio-economic conditions, policies, and demographics.