Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum says lifting the afternoon alcohol sales ban could boost tourism and ease pressure on local businesses.
Following the announcement of a ban on the sale of alcohol during the afternoon in Thailand, its government confirmed that it will review the prohibition.
According to Thai news portal Bangkok Post, Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum said on Wednesday (November 12) that the government is discussing lifting the ban after heavy public backlash.
The amendment to Thailand’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Act has been in effect since last Saturday (November 8), stipulating that individuals caught drinking alcoholic beverages during specified hours or in prohibited areas could be fined THB 10,000 (RM 1,277).
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The prohibited hours are between 2 pm and 5 pm — a rule that has been enforced since 1972 but was repealed under the amended act.
Sophon said authorities were aware of the potential impact of the mandate on the country’s businesses and tourism sector, saying that the regulations in the amended act, including the continuation of restricted hours, were deemed “impractical” and should no longer be enforced.
“The outdated rules contradict everyday realities and create legal enforcement problems. We agree on the need for change, and the ban should be lifted,” he said.
Sophon added, “We will have good news from the meeting. Easing the rules will reassure businesses and encourage tourism, helping to boost the local economy.”
He also noted that the afternoon alcohol sales restriction near schools and temples should remain, but sales should resume in other business areas.
Despite the repeal of the prohibited hours of alcohol sales under the new act, a regulation issued under the Prime Minister’s Office in line with the 2008 Alcoholic Beverage Control Act still outlines the same restricted hours and remains unchanged.
The new rule reportedly does not specify the times directly but refers to a government announcement on June 23, which reiterates the permitted hours for alcohol sales—between 11 am and 2 pm, and from 5 pm to midnight—while exceptions are made for certain venues such as international airports, licensed entertainment outlets, and hotels.
