Thailand has lifted restrictions on alcohol sales that have been in place for over 50 years.
In Thailand, daytime alcohol sales have been permitted. Following the publication of the corresponding decree in the local "Royal Gazette," the ban, which had been in effect since the early 1970s, has been lifted.
Now, the sale of alcohol is permitted in the country from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This is being done in a trial mode for six months: afterward, the authorities will assess the economic and social consequences and decide whether to continue the relaxation. However, the ban on the sale of alcohol from midnight to 11:00 AM remains in effect.
An exception has been made for bars and restaurants — their patrons will be able to consume alcohol for one more hour after the end of sales, until 1:00 AM. The restrictions also do not apply in international airports for departing and arriving passengers, as well as in licensed entertainment establishments and some hotels.
Restrictions on the sale of alcohol in Thailand have been in place since 1972, when they were introduced to prevent the consumption of alcohol at work during working hours. The issue of abolishing these rules was raised by representatives of the restaurant business, who in 2024 appealed to the then Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, complaining about the increase in costs and food prices.
Authorities expect that easing these rules will support the economy and make the country even more attractive to tourists.
Comments