Cheers for the absurd rules

The amended alcohol control legislation that imposes fines on individuals who continue drinking alcoholic beverages during restricted hours — particularly between 2pm and 5pm — has left the government in hot water.

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Under Section 32 of the amended law, which took effect this week, those who make their last order at 1.55pm are required to empty their glasses within five minutes or less. If not, they face a maximum fine of 10,000 baht. It is the first time the law has begun targeting individuals, including tourists — previously, it punished only shop or restaurant owners who sold alcohol during prohibited hours — and the details of the law go into such minuscule detail that it borders on the nonsensical.

Opposing the law is the Thai Restaurant Association, which is concerned about the adverse impact on businesses already experiencing hardship due to the economic slowdown.

Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, an MP from the opposition People's Party — which advocates easing alcohol control — has warned that the amended rule is likely to confuse foreign tourists, particularly if they order drinks before the restricted hours but do not finish by the 2pm lunchtime deadline.