Google Ads has significantly revised its alcohol advertising policy, broadening the range of alcohol-related products and ad formats it permits in specific countries, according to its official policy page as tracked by AuditSocials. The change was detected on October 2, 2026.

The revision introduces new certification requirements in India, Indonesia and Egypt. According to the updated page, low ABV and alcohol alternative beverages may be advertised in those countries provided that advertisers targeting them have completed Google's certification requirements and do not exceed local restrictions on ABV.

The revised text lists categories including ads featuring alcoholic beverages available for purchase, branding and informational ads, alcohol mixers, alcohol accessories, and low ABV (<0.5%) drinks and 0% alcohol alternative beverages. Under the page, alcohol accessories include specialized equipment for making alcohol, with examples such as home brewing kits and distillation equipment.

The page states that alcohol-related ads must comply with all local laws, industry standards and Google's policies, and that certain ads must target audiences above the legal purchase age for the country where they are displayed. A section on location restrictions identifies where alcohol advertising is not permitted.

No effective date was listed. AuditSocials rated the change as high severity. The update affects paid ads and touches the Food & Beverage and Marketing & Advertising industries in the APAC and MENA regions.