BANGKOK – Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum announced on Tuesday that the long-standing ban on alcohol sales between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. will be officially lifted in time for the New Year celebrations. The move follows the conclusion of a 15-day public hearing process, allowing the new regulation to be enacted ahead of the year-end festivities.

Committee Approves 2–5 p.m. Alcohol Sales Ahead of New Year

However, the minister clarified that the relaxation will not apply universally. Only registered establishments, including authorized grocery stores, will be permitted to sell alcoholic beverages during the previously restricted afternoon hours. He acknowledged that there had been widespread public misunderstanding regarding the scope of the change.

Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum has reassured Thai business operators that the ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm will be lifted in time for the New Year holiday.

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In addition to the adjusted sales window, regulations regarding on-premise consumption will also see refinement. Drinking at licensed venues will be allowed until 1 a.m., though all alcohol sales must cease by midnight.

Thailand Imposes Stiff Fines on Drinkers in Tightened Alcohol Laws

The decision to revoke the afternoon sales ban, which has been in effect since 1972, was initially approved by the National Alcohol Policy Committee on November 13. The move comes in response to significant public criticism of a newly introduced rule that imposed a 10,000-baht fine on individuals for drinking outside of permitted hours. Authorities have stated that the policy shift aims to stimulate tourism and boost economic activity during key holiday periods, including the upcoming New Year and the Songkran festival in April.

-Thailand News (TN)