Afternoon alcohol ban to end

New sales hours to help boost economy

- POST REPORTERS

The government plans to lift the longstanding 2pm-5pm alcohol sales ban in an effort to stimulate tourism and consumer spending during major festive periods.

At Government House, Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum announced that the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee had agreed in principle to lift the 2pm-5pm alcohol sales ban, extending the current permitted hours of 11am-2pm and 5pm-midnight.

Mr Sophon said the move aligns with the cabinet's policy to modernise alcohol regulations and support tourism and economic recovery.

"During festive seasons like New Year, the Ministry of Sports and Tourism has expressed concern that overly strict enforcement might deter both foreign visitors and domestic travellers from celebrating and spending," he said.

"Therefore, the government will extend sales hours to help drive economic activity."

Following the committee's resolution yesterday, a 15-day public consultation will be held before the new regulation is issued as a Prime Minister's Office announcement, which will not require cabinet approval.