Thailand on Wednesday lifted a 53-year-old restriction on the afternoon retail sale of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at boosting year-end tourism and supporting businesses such as bars and convenience stores.
The prohibition on selling beer, wine, and spirits between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., first introduced in 1972 during military rule, will be lifted on a 180-day trial, after which authorities will assess its impact. The amendment, published in the Royal Gazette on Tuesday, allows alcohol sales from 11 a.m. to midnight, with patrons at nightlife venues permitted to drink until 1 a.m.
While Thailand is largely Buddhist, discouraging alcohol consumption, drinking remains widespread. Authorities had expressed concerns that extending sales could worsen drunk-driving incidents.
Previously, afternoon alcohol sales were inconsistently enforced, with exemptions for airports, hotels, and certain entertainment venues. Temporary bans were also imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic to curb virus spread. The trial aims to balance public safety with economic benefits during the holiday season.
Source: AP