Yes, purchasing Everclear (95%+ ethanol) in Israel is legal but tightly controlled under the 1973 Dangerous Substances Ordinance and 2023 amendments by the Ministry of Health’s Public Health Services. Only licensed pharmacies and industrial suppliers may sell it, with strict quantity limits and mandatory permits for bulk purchases.
Key Regulations for Purchasing Everclear in Israel
- Licensing Requirement: Only entities with a Dangerous Substances License (issued by the Ministry of Health) can sell Everclear. Retail sales to individuals are prohibited.
- Quantity Restrictions: Consumers may purchase up to 500ml per transaction from licensed pharmacies, with daily purchase limits enforced via digital tracking systems introduced in 2026.
- Purpose Verification: Buyers must declare intended use (e.g., industrial, medical, or scientific). Misuse for consumption carries penalties under the Dangerous Substances (Penalties) Regulations (2024).
Additional Compliance Notes
- Taxation: Everclear is subject to excise duties under the Customs Ordinance (1938), with rates adjusted annually by the Tax Authority.
- Import Controls: Importers require pre-approval from the Israel Tax Authority and must comply with UN ethanol purity standards to avoid confiscation.
- Penalties: Unlicensed possession or sale of >5 liters without authorization risks fines up to NIS 50,000 or imprisonment under the Criminal Law (Consolidation) Act (1977).