The Council of Ministers, by its August 24 directive, allowed sales of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes at retail markets. The sales are now allowed at all food establishments and stores at markets irrespective of the ownership of the former, said the trade ministry`s press office.
The move is aimed at increasing the sales, the press office noted.
The cabinet banned the sales by its December 2003 directive that tightened up rules governing trade at retail markets. The document prohibited market vendors using mobile counters from selling furs, leather goods, computers, consumer electronics, household equipment, cameras, film, watches, clocks, antiques, weapons, ammunition and military equipment. It outlawed the sale of precious metals, fireworks and sugar outdoors.
