Thailand allows afternoon alcohol sales in time for year-end holiday celebrations

BANGKOK On Wednesday, Thailand ended a 53-year-old prohibition on selling alcoholic beverages in the afternoon, a change aimed at supporting tourism and stimulating business in bars, restaurants, and convenience stores during the year-end holiday period. The restriction, previously in effect from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., will be suspended for a 180-day trial period, after which authorities will assess its impact.

The original ban, established in 1972 during Thailands period of military rule, covered beer, wine, and spirits, though the reasons for its introduction have largely faded from public memory. Thailands majority Buddhist population traditionally discourages alcohol consumption, but drinking has remained widely practiced.

Under the revised Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, now officially published in the Royal Gazette, alcoholic drinks may be sold from 11 a.m. until midnight. Patrons of nightlife establishments may continue drinking until 1 a.m. Concerns were raised during discussions about the amendment regarding a potential increase in drunk driving incidents.

Before this formal change, afternoon alcohol sales existed in a gray area, with exemptions for airports, certain entertainment venues, and hotels. Enforcement was uneven, and some small shops and eateries often offered alcohol discreetly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many areas experienced temporary bans on alcohol sales to curb the viruss spread.

Author: Logan Reeves