BANGKOK — Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration announced on Wednesday that customers caught drinking in pubs after legal operating hours will face fines of up to 10,000 baht starting November 8. The measure, introduced through an amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, aims to strengthen enforcement of the country’s alcohol sales restrictions.

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Section 32 of the act explicitly prohibits consuming alcoholic beverages on licensed premises outside permitted hours. Current laws ban alcohol sales from midnight to 11 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The new penalty targets patrons who remain drinking after closing time, rather than solely penalizing venue operators.

The department emphasized that the rule applies to all establishments where alcohol is sold or served, including pubs, bars, and restaurants. Violators will be subject to strict fines, with no exceptions for tourists or locals. The move seeks to curb late-night drinking and reinforce public order amid ongoing efforts to regulate nightlife venues.

B10,000 fine for drinking in pubs after hours https://t.co/wo3YsRwxnE pic.twitter.com/kfWVdQnQij

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Authorities warned that both businesses and customers must comply with the updated regulations, which align with Thailand’s broader public health and social order objectives. The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with some operators expressing concern over potential impacts on tourism and nightlife revenue.

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Enforcement will be carried out by provincial administrative officials, who will conduct random checks and respond to public complaints. The department urged patrons to respect operating hours and avoid risking hefty fines.

-Thailand News (TN)