An international consultation of experts and advocates met in 2001 in the USA to exchange views and experience and to find a way of co-ordinating efforts. At the consultation it became quite clear that there was a commonality of interest in the alleviation of alcohol problems.  An urgent need to monitor the marketing strategies undertaken by the global alcohol industry as it seeks to increase sales and circumvent health promotion policies was recognised. Although impossible to match the financial resources of the international drinks companies and the "social aspect" groups which speak for them, it became clear that with a sharing of scientific knowledge and expertise we could become a united resource in helping governments around the globe to formulate strategies to counter the health and social problems created by alcohol consumption.

The meeting resolved that the Global Alcohol Policy Alliance be established.

GAPA has developed from this initial network.

In 2003 Eurocare formally added European Alcohol Policy Alliance to its name.

The Indian Alcohol Policy Alliance was launched in Delhi in 2005.

In 2006 the Asia Pacific Alcohol Policy Alliance was launched in Bangkok.

The most important events are listed separately.

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