In many countries, State alcohol monopoly systems have been adopted as a means of public control over alcohol availability. This study focused on an analysis is presented on the present State and potential aspects of State alcohol monopoly systems in preventing alcohol abuse. Success as a form of public alcohol control is found to be culturally bound and presupposes public support. The potential contribution of State monopoly systems of industrialized countries to alcohol prevention in developing countries is evaluated from the following angles: organization and fiscal efficiency of these systems, the operations of State monopolies in developing countries, the State monopolies' impact on world market in alcoholic beverages, and the utilization of the resources of the monopolies. 4 figures. 21 references. (Author abstract modified)