Authorities in Laos have reportedly banned the sale and consumption of a vodka and whisky brand after six tourists died from suspected methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng earlier this month. An Australia travel advisory published on Friday said the Southeast Asian country has banned Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky.

Southeast Asia has the "highest rates of methanol poisoning globally", said Al Jazeera, and this is often blamed on "economic pressures and weak regulations". Laos, despite its increasing popularity with backpackers, is one of the poorest nations in the region.

British backpacker Tash Moore, 21, arrived in Laos just days after six people fell victim to a suspected mass methanol poisoning incident, but she says bar staff in Vang Vieng were still pouring free shots for tourists.

SINGAPORE: Laos has banned the sale and consumption of a brand of whisky and vodka following the death of six tourists from suspected methanol poisoning earlier this month. This is according to Smartraveller,

Australia has warned travelers against drinking spirits made by a Laos distiller, following the deaths of six foreign tourists from suspected methanol poisoning in the Southeast Asian country.

Julia Hernández (CNN) — Australia advirtió a los viajeros que no beban bebidas espirituosas elaboradas por un destilador de Laos, tras la muerte de seis turistas extranjeros por presunta intoxicación