BANGKOK — Thailand has officially abolished its decades-old ban on alcohol sales in restaurants between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., a move expected to increase industry revenue by 25% and enhance the country’s appeal as a top global tourist destination. The decision, backed by both ruling and opposition parties, marks a significant shift from the 1972 law long criticized for stifling business and inconvenienced visitors.

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Sorathep Rojpojchanarat, chair of the Restaurant Business Association and honorary advisor to the Thailand Hostel Association, expressed gratitude to the government for modernizing the regulation. He emphasized that the ban had created afternoon lulls in restaurant activity, driving tourists to delay meals until evening and costing businesses critical revenue.

The reform applies exclusively to licensed restaurants, with existing safeguards—such as the legal drinking age of 20 and strict drunk-driving laws—remaining in force. Sorathep underscored that responsible consumption culture, akin to successful public safety campaigns, will continue to be prioritized.

Thailand Reaffirms Three-Hour Daily Alcohol Sales Ban Amid Confusion

Thailand’s Disease Control Department clarified on Friday that the longstanding ban on alcohol sales between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. remains strictly enforced, despite recent legal adjustments that raised confusion among vendors. The regulation, designed to promote public health and social order, applies to all retail outlets except designated venues such as international airports, hotels, and licensed entertainment establishments like bars.

The announcement comes after some retailers misinterpreted recent amendments to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, mistakenly believing the daily sales restriction had been lifted. Authorities emphasized that violations could result in fines or license suspensions for businesses, while consumers face penalties for drinking in unauthorized venues during prohibited hours.

Thailand's Disease Control Department on Friday clarified that the three-hour daily ban on alcohol sales remains in force, dispelling confusion among vendors over a recent legal change.

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The three-hour ban, implemented in 1972, aims to discourage daytime drinking and reduce alcohol-related harm. Exceptions remain limited to specific contexts, such as tourism-oriented zones and licensed hospitality venues. The department urged vendors to adhere to the rules and consult official channels before interpreting regulatory changes.

The clarification reinforces Thailand’s commitment to balancing economic interests with public health priorities, particularly in regions struggling with alcohol abuse. Enforcement will be intensified to ensure compliance across retail networks nationwide.

The lifting of the ban is anticipated to revitalize the restaurant sector, a cornerstone of Thailand’s economy, by allowing visitors to enjoy drinks with meals throughout the day. This alignment with international norms is expected to strengthen Thailand’s competitive edge in tourism and spur growth in related industries.

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Industry stakeholders will monitor the impact on sales and visitor satisfaction, with potential implications for further regulatory reforms. The change reflects a broader trend toward adapting laws to meet contemporary economic and social needs while maintaining public welfare.

-Thailand News (TN)