Uruguay gains further arrivals allowances boost

John Gallagher

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Operators of the country's arrivals outlets have welcomed the government's decision to raise liquor and tobacco allowances for the second time this year

Following the government's decision in March to adjust liquor and tobacco allowances up to two litres of spirits and 400 cigarettes, the latest amendment allows passengers to purchase up to eight litres of spirits and 800 cigarettes at Uruguay's arrivals stores.
 
The move has been announced after several months of lobbying from South American trade association ASUTIL. Secretary-general José Luis Donagaray said: "This is great news for the business as the government has recognized the need to harmonize allowances within the Mercosur area and this will be a boost for our members operating in Uruguay.
 
Duty Free Uruguay holds the duty-free concession at Montevideo Carrasco airport, where it opened new walk-through arrivals stores in March. President Martin Eurnekian said: "This will be a great boost for sales in two of our core categories. We have already seen the benefit over the last few days but it will prove even more significant in the forthcoming high season."
 
Zeinal Hermanos operates duty-free shops on fast ferries linking Uruguay and Argentina, and president Walter Zeinal also welcomed the news. "This will benefit our customers arriving in Uruguay," he said, "and it should also be a traffic builder as whisky and cigarette purchasers often go on to buy other categories.