Selling tobacco or alcohol online or across borders is considered high-risk. This is due to strict legal regulations, age verification laws, excise tax rules, and varying import/export restrictions in different countries.
At Offshore High Risk Merchants, we help businesses in this industry get stable, secure merchant accounts so they can accept card payments and grow confidently.
Recent Legal Case on EU Tobacco and Alcohol Sales
A European court ruling confirmed that consumers may continue traveling across borders to buy alcohol or tobacco for personal use, also known as “booze cruises.” The case involved a Dutch citizen who ordered wine from France using a transport company and was later charged heavy customs duties in the Netherlands.
The court decided:
You can bring alcohol or tobacco for personal use if you personally transport it
If using a delivery company, local excise duties apply
However, duties paid in the country of origin should be subtracted
This decision supports personal travelers but makes it difficult for online retailers or importers to ship tobacco or alcohol across the EU without triggering complex tax and legal issues.
Why Tobacco and Alcohol Sales Are Considered High-Risk
Selling tobacco or alcohol online often leads to issues with banks and payment processors due to:
Age verification requirements
Import/export regulations
Varying excise tax laws
Legal risks and compliance checks
These concerns make it hard for businesses to get approved for merchant accounts with traditional providers.
How Offshore High Risk Merchants Can Help
We work with domestic and offshore acquiring banks that understand the legal landscape of the tobacco and alcohol industry. Our team helps you:
Set up secure credit and debit card processing
Offer multiple currency payment options
Comply with cross-border rules and regulations
Avoid account shutdowns from standard payment providers
We specialize in working with high-risk merchants, so we understand how to get your account approved quickly and legally.
Ready to Sell Tobacco or Alcohol Online?
If you are running a licensed tobacco or alcohol business and need a reliable payment processor, Offshore High Risk Merchants is here to help.
We offer tailored merchant account solutions designed for regulated industries. Contact us today to discuss your needs and set up your account.
