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Friday, November 14, 2025
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Thailand Set to Lift Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban

This Week

Thailand is preparing to lift its afternoon alcohol sales ban to boost tourism and economic activity.

Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum announced the change on 13 November after chairing a meeting of the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee. The government will remove the 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM sales restriction, allowing continuous alcohol sales from 11:00 AM to midnight.

Currently, alcohol sales are permitted only during two windows: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to midnight. The afternoon ban was originally introduced to discourage civil servants from drinking during work hours, a rationale Sophon called outdated and misaligned with modern social behavior.

The policy shift is intended to stimulate spending during major festivals, including the upcoming New Year period and Songkran 2026, according to Sophon.

Late-Night Extension Debated

Health Minister Pattana Promphat, who attended the meeting, confirmed the new rules will undergo a six-month trial period. 

“Economic benefits, health concerns, and other considerations will be assessed,” he said, adding that the board will reconvene to evaluate results before deciding whether to continue the measure.

The updated policies are expected to be finalized after public consultations, with an official announcement planned for early December 2025

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