Of course, we have taken into account that the EU process can take a little time, says Minister for Social Affairs Jakob Forssmed (KD).
So far, I see no reason to revise the timetable, but it assumes an EU process that does not drag on for too long.
In the last minute, Portugal protested against the government's bill to allow small-scale Swedish farm sales of wine, beer, gin, and other alcohol. Spanish wine producers, the European industry organization for wine producers, and several organizations that promote public health have also done so.
But when another member state submits a so-called detailed opinion, it carries more weight. Then the process is automatically extended by three months, and the Swedish government must respond to Portugal by January 8 at the latest.
The question is whether the proposal contravenes EU law and discriminates against foreign manufacturers.
Not entirely unexpected
It was not entirely unexpected that another EU country would have comments, according to Forssmed.
This is complex EU legal material we are dealing with, he says.
The government now has three options - to withdraw the bill, amend the proposal, or proceed as planned, but motivate why it does not intend to take into account the Portuguese objections.
Whether there will be any changes to the proposal is too early to say.
We need to analyze Portugal's statement first, says Forssmed.
The EU Commission chose not to submit an opinion when the deadline expired on October 8. This does not mean that the Commission gives the green light, only that it did not see anything alarming that it reacts to.
Unlike when it comes to state aid, the Commission does not have to approve the proposal.
Systembolaget's monopoly
The government believes that the limited sales that will be involved should be allowed and still defend Systembolaget's monopoly. One of the conditions is that the alcohol can only be purchased in connection with a visit to the vineyard, distillery, or microbrewery. Furthermore, there are restrictions on how much alcohol can be purchased.
The issue of farm sales is sensitive, as Sweden's model with Systembolaget is unique in the EU. Only in Finland and Sweden is it allowed for a company to have a monopoly on selling alcohol.
Critics have pointed out that farm sales could risk Systembolaget's monopoly if it is introduced.
