Finland bans the word ‘whisky’ from expo

The Beer and Whisky Expo Finland 2014 has been ordered to change its name after Finnish officials argued it violates the country’s law prohibiting liquor advertising.

The Beer and Whisky Expo Finland 2014 must remove the word ‘whisky’ from its title

The event, which is scheduled to take place next week, will have to drop the word ‘whisky’ from its name.

It will now be called a beer expo as the advertisement of low abv alcoholic beverages such as wine and beer is permitted.

The State Regional Administration Agency (Avi) ruled that by having the word ‘whisky’ in the title, the event was promoting strong alcohol.

However, Mikki Nyman, chief organiser of the fair, said the decision “smacks of patronizing attitudes” of bureaucrats, ABC News reported.

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