PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health, together with the Health Systems Research Institute, has released early findings from its monitoring of the trial lifting of the alcohol sales ban between 2:00–5:00 pm. After more than 60 days, the data suggest that while some restaurant operators have seen higher sales, the broader economic impact remains largely unchanged. Researchers also warn that youth are emerging as a new marketing target, prompting closer scrutiny before a final policy decision at the end of the 180-day trial.
Today (20 February), the Ministry of Public Health and the Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) reported progress on the evaluation of the policy, which has been in effect since 3 December 2025. The measure was introduced as a six-month experiment to stimulate the economy and tourism, but it has sparked debate over potential health and road-safety risks.
According to surveys by alcohol-policy researchers, more than 82.8% of the public remain concerned about traffic accidents linked to drinking.
On February 16, the Ministry convened its first 2026 meeting of the monitoring and evaluation task force, chaired by the Permanent Secretary for Public Health, to review interim research led by the Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program (HITAP) with support from HSRI.
HSRI’s Deputy Director presented preliminary analysis from the first 75 days, highlighting three key points:
Economic impact: Overall tourism revenue in some areas shows no clear change, though sales among certain restaurant groups have improved.
Social and health effects: While drink-driving rates have not risen markedly compared with the baseline year, the recent New Year period saw mortality risk spike to four to five times normal levels.
Risk groups: Evidence suggests young people are increasingly being targeted by alcohol marketing during the relaxed sales hours.
To ensure a well-rounded decision after the full 180 days, the task force will integrate data from multiple agencies, including emergency and accident records, treatment costs from the National Health Security Office, drink-driving and crime statistics from the Royal Thai Police, complaints logged by the Department of Provincial Administration, and tourism and tax data from the Excise and Revenue Departments. Media monitoring and stakeholder analysis will also be conducted alongside quantitative studies.
HSRI emphasized that the research is neither for nor against the policy outright, but aims to identify balanced policy options. Should the relaxed sales hours become permanent, additional regulatory measures would be required to mitigate social and health risks. Monthly evaluations will continue to inform a final decision that weighs economic benefits against public safety.
