PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has strengthened enforcement of its alcohol control laws, formally prohibiting shops and venues from selling alcoholic beverages to customers who show clear signs of intoxication.
On December 18, the Craft Beer Association of Thailand shared a simplified explanation of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act currently in force, outlining key legal responsibilities for alcohol retailers nationwide.
Under the regulations, alcohol sales are permitted between 11:00 a.m. and midnight. However, sellers are prohibited from selling alcohol to anyone under the age of 20 and to individuals who are visibly intoxicated. Retailers are authorized to assess a customer’s condition and refuse service when necessary.
The restriction on sales to intoxicated persons is a newly enforced provision under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568 (2025). Section 29 of the law states that if a seller or business violates this prohibition and the intoxicated customer later causes damage, injury, or death, the seller or establishment may be held jointly liable for compensation and subject to legal penalties.
To help prevent violations, the association advised retailers to strengthen internal controls, including staff training on legal requirements, clear communication with customers, and proper documentation to support responsible alcohol sales. The goal, the association noted, is to reduce alcohol-related harm while providing clarity and protection for both businesses and the public.
