Tourist’s paradise Thailand bans alcohol! Violation will attract fines; Learn about exempted places and new rules

New Delhi: Drastic changes have been made to alcohol laws in Thailand, a popular tourist destination. Under this, those who want to quench their thirst by drinking alcohol during the afternoon will face hefty fines. The law came into effect on Saturday, November 8. Thailand’s new alcohol law increases the power of law enforcement agencies. It further tightens restrictions on the sale, purchase, and advertising of alcohol.

Alcohol ban in Thailand

Thailand has banned the sale of alcohol between 2 PM and 5 PM in most retail stores and supermarkets since 1972. However, changes to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which came into effect on Saturday, mean that anyone found drinking or serving alcohol during restricted times or in restricted areas can now be fined 10,000 baht (US$300) or more.

Exemptions given to these places

Although licensed entertainment venues, hotels, certified establishments in tourist areas, and airports offering international flights are exempt, the responsibility is placed on consumers. Strict laws also ban advertising alcoholic beverages unless their content is completely factual. The use of celebrities, influencers, or public figures to promote alcoholic beverages for commercial purposes is also prohibited.

Negative impact on tourism

Chanan Koetcharoen, president of the Thai Restaurant Association, said the new regulations will adversely affect restaurants because customers are now “restricted” to the set sales hours. For example, if an establishment sells a bottle of beer to a customer at 1:59 p.m., but the customer continues drinking on the premises until 2:05 p.m., it would be considered a violation of the law under Section 32, and the person could be fined.

Opposition demands exemption

Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a lawmaker from the opposition People’s Party, has advocated for alcohol liberalisation. He said alcohol should be sold 24 hours a day. “The amended law is aimed at serving the interests of those who oppose alcohol,” Taopiphop said. He added that this also risks confusing foreign tourists, who may order alcohol before the restricted hours but consume it later.