Alcohol plans baffle industry

The revised alcohol control law, while keeping strict restrictions on alcohol sales intact, is creating confusion among citizens and business operators — particularly those in the advertising sector.

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Previously, officials had given the impression that the alcohol ban in the revised Alcohol Control Act would be relaxed.

For years, members of the food and beverage sector have urged the government to ease the country’s stringent alcohol consumption rules.

Yet, despite Thailand promoting itself as a prime tourist destination, its alcohol consumption laws have moved in the opposite direction.

Sales and consumption hours remain restricted, including during Buddhist public holidays, raising questions among non-Buddhist visitors.

The previous Pheu Thai government had pledged to revise the law, prompting officials to propose changes to boost tourism.

However, in practice, there have been no significant changes to current alcohol sale hours — 11am-2pm and 5pm-midnight — for ordinary shops.

The sale of alcohol also remains prohibited on major Buddhist holidays, including Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, and the beginning and end of Buddhist Lent.

In short, the controlling approach to alcohol consumption continues to dominate Thai law.