Thailand lifts long-standing afternoon alcohol ban in bid to support tourism
Thailand has suspended its 2pm-5pm alcohol sales restriction for the first time in more than 50 years, launching a six-month trial aimed at assessing economic and public health impacts.
Thailand has temporarily lifted its five-decade ban on afternoon alcohol sales, allowing licensed retailers and hospitality venues to sell alcohol continuously from 11am to midnight. The move, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram and public health minister Pattana Promphat, is part of a 180-day trial designed to evaluate how extended sales hours affect tourism, consumption patterns and public safety.
A significant policy shift
The restriction, introduced in 1972 to discourage government employees from drinking during working hours, prohibited alcohol purchases between 2pm and 5pm. Offenders faced fines of up to 10,000 baht (around €270). Officials now say the policy is no longer suited to contemporary working habits or the country’s economic priorities.
“In the past, there were concerns that government employees would sneak out to drink, but it’s a different time now,” Sophon told reporters in November. The public health ministry added that the measure was no longer “appropriate” in its current form.
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Following a two-week public consultation, authorities confirmed that registered outlets — including grocery stores, off-licences and restaurants — may now sell alcohol throughout the day during the trial period.
Trial aligned with peak tourism season
The temporary suspension runs until May 2026 and coincides with Thailand’s busiest tourism months. Officials will review data on alcohol consumption, road accidents and hospital admissions before deciding whether to pursue permanent legislative change.
Tourism and hospitality representatives have consistently argued that the afternoon ban placed Thailand at a competitive disadvantage, claiming visitors were opting for destinations such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam, where sales hours are less restrictive.
The government has emphasised that any long-term amendment to alcohol laws will depend on the results of the current trial.
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