PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s National Alcohol Policy Committee plans to allow alcohol sales and consumption from 2 PM to 5 PM, expanding on previous hours of 11 AM–2 PM and 5–12 AM. The move, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum, aims to stimulate tourism and the economy, particularly during the upcoming New Year celebrations.
Following a 15-day public feedback period, the measure will be officially enacted via a Prime Minister’s Office announcement without requiring Cabinet approval. The proposal to extend late-night drinking beyond midnight remains under discussion, with tourism and business sectors favoring an extension to 4 AM, while health authorities caution that alcohol-related accidents peak between 2–3 AM. A compromise model of 1 AM is being considered based on scientific data to balance safety with economic benefits.
Deputy PM Sophon noted that past restrictions on afternoon drinking are outdated, and modern policy should focus on realistic measures that support celebration while minimizing risks. (TNA)
