Thailand: the sale of alcohol in the afternoon will be allowed before the holidays

The Thai government has confirmed that the sale of alcohol between 2 pm and 5 pm will be allowed again before the end-of-year celebrations.

See: Lifting alcohol restrictions in Thailand: relief for tourism

Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum reassured Thai entrepreneurs by announcing that the ban on selling alcohol between 2 pm and 5 pm would be lifted in time for the end-of-year celebrations.

A 15-day public consultation to gather opinions on lifting the ban has ended, he said on Tuesday, December 2.

He believes that the new regulation can be announced before the end-of-year celebrations.

However, not all businesses will be able to apply the new regulation, he clarified, acknowledging that there had been many misunderstandings.

Only registered establishments, including grocery stores, will be allowed to sell alcoholic beverages between 2 pm and 5 pm, he said.

The consumption of alcohol on the premises will be allowed until 1 am, but sales must stop at midnight, added Mr. Sophon.

Why is Thailand ending the ban on the sale of alcohol in the afternoon?

Tourists discuss around a drink in a pub on Khaosan Road, Bangkok. Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill/Bangkok Post

The repeal of the ban on sales in the afternoon was approved by the National Committee on Alcohol Policy on November 13.

It follows widespread public criticism of a new rule that imposed a fine of 10,000 baht (268 euros) on people who consumed alcohol outside of permitted hours.

This new law, which had negative media coverage abroad, was likely to drive tourists to neighboring countries according to tour operators.

See: Drinking alcohol in Thailand between 2pm and 5pm can cost you dearly

The decision to end the ban in force since 1972 was aimed at boosting tourism and economic activity during periods of high tourist traffic, such as New Year and Songkran.

See also:

Thailand: The tourism sector wants an end to alcohol restrictions

Alcohol + durian: a deadly mix normally well known in Thailand

Thailand: Alcohol allowed again in the afternoon in certain places

Source: Bangkok Post