Thailand Lifts 53-Year Alcohol Sales Ban

Thailand has officially ended a 53-year-old ban that restricted the retail sale of alcoholic drinks during specific afternoon hours. This significant policy shift, enacted to bolster year-end holiday tourism and support businesses such as bars and convenience stores, took effect following its publication in the Royal Gazette. The previous ban, which prevented sales between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., has been lifted on a 180-day trial basis.

The amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act now allows consumers to purchase beer, spirits, and wine from 11 a.m. until midnight. While sales conclude at midnight, patrons in nightlife venues will be permitted to continue drinking until 1 a.m. The original reasons for the 1972 ban remain unclear, though Thailand is predominantly Buddhist and its religious tenets discourage excessive drinking.

Concerns were previously raised about potential increases in drunk driving incidents due to extended alcohol availability. Historically, afternoon sales existed in a gray area with exemptions for airports and hotels, and enforcement varied. This reform aims to provide a clearer and more consistent framework for alcohol sales across the country.