Afternoon drinks return — Ban ends after more than 50 years
In a significant shift for Thailand’s nightlife and tourism sectors, the government has lifted the decades-old ban on alcohol sales during afternoon hours. As of early December 2025, licensed venues — bars, restaurants, hotels, and liquor stores — are now allowed to sell beer, wine and spirits between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., a window that was previously prohibited under law.
The move is part of a six-month trial programme, during which authorities will monitor the effects on public health, road safety, and social behaviour before deciding whether the change should become permanent.
Why the change — tourism, business and modern realities
The midday alcohol ban dates back to 1972, originally designed to discourage alcohol consumption among public servants during working hours. Over time, many in Thailand’s hospitality and tourism sectors argued the regulation had grown outdated — especially in a country that draws millions of international visitors each year.
With tourism a cornerstone of the economy, authorities say the relaxation aims to reinvigorate bars, restaurants and hotels, making Thailand more attractive to visitors seeking a flexible, holiday-style experience. The ban’s removal is expected to help local businesses recover and boost revenue ahead of the holiday season.
What’s new — how alcohol sales work under the trial
- Licensed sellers may now serve alcohol from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. — the former dry window.
- Outside those hours, the existing rules remain: alcohol sales permitted before 2:00 p.m. and after 5:00 p.m., and drinking in nightlife venues allowed until later.
- The government will monitor indicators such as road-traffic accidents, alcohol-related incidents, and public health data to assess the policy’s impact.
Reactions — relief for tourists and hospitality, caution from health advocates
Tour operators, bar and restaurant owners, and other stakeholders in the tourism industry have welcomed the change. For many, the old ban had caused confusion, especially among foreign visitors accustomed to more liberal alcohol laws.
For returning tourists and holiday-goers, the shift restores a sense of convenience: beach bars in Phuket or rooftop venues in Bangkok can now serve a midday drink without interruptions — a move likely to enhance Thailand’s appeal as a relaxed, fun destination.
At the same time, public health experts and road-safety campaigners have urged caution. Thailand already has high rates of alcohol consumption and road-accident fatalities, some linked to drunk driving. Experts warn that relaxing sales without careful regulation could exacerbate those problems.
What’s next — trial period, evaluation and possible permanence
Over the next six months, Thailand’s authorities will closely monitor data on alcohol-related harms, sales volumes, and social effects. If the trial proceeds smoothly, there is a strong possibility the relaxation will become permanent — solidifying Thailand’s shift toward a more tourism-friendly approach.
For now, tourists planning trips to Thailand can expect fewer restrictions — especially if they fancy a cold beer under a tropical afternoon sun. But for many locals and policymakers, the decision also carries a measure of caution: it may rest on balancing economic benefits with public health and safety.
