BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s pub and bar industry has staged a strong post-pandemic recovery, with revenue more than doubling over the past two years, even as the sector faces renewed scrutiny following the deadly Bangkok entertainment venue fire. According to research by Krungsri Research, Thailand had 388,219 registered food and beverage businesses in 2024, up 0.84% from the previous year. Of these, only 4,133 were registered primarily as alcohol-serving establishments, accounting for just 1.1% of the total. Despite representing a small share of businesses, the sector has become an increasingly important contributor to the economy.
Registered pubs, bars and other alcohol-serving venues generated 5.4 billion baht in revenue in 2024, a 46.4% increase from the previous year and more than double the 2.3 billion baht recorded in 2022 as Thailand reopened to international tourism. The industry’s share of revenue within the broader food and beverage sector also increased from 12.9% in 2022 to 18.9% in 2024, highlighting the rapid recovery of nightlife businesses. Krungsri Research said future growth may slow despite the government’s decision to permanently relax afternoon alcohol sales after an initial trial period.
The report noted that many pubs, bars and restaurants remain heavily dependent on foreign tourists, particularly long-haul visitors from Europe and the Middle East, whose recovery has been affected by geopolitical tensions, higher travel costs, limited flight capacity and safety concerns.
The report suggests that while domestic policy changes may provide some support, sustained growth will depend largely on a stronger recovery in international tourism.
