Thailand considers lifting 2-5pm alcohol sales ban to boost tourism

Due to the current economic difficulties, the Prime Minister is considering ending the ban on alcohol sales in Thailand. In the future, we may be able to buy alcohol from 2pm to 5pm.

The sale of alcohol has been banned in Thailand from 2pm to 5pm since the measure was introduced in 1972 under the Thanom Kittikachorn regime. The measure was introduced to prevent Thais from drinking during the day.

This law has been in force for over five decades and many people wonder whether it is still applicable in contemporary society. Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, president of the Restaurant Business Club, is one such observer. He has written an open letter to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on the issue.

Thailand considers lifting 2-5pm alcohol sales ban to boost tourism

According to the letter, this restriction is outdated, as foreigners who visit catering establishments often wonder why alcoholic beverages cannot be ordered. Lifting this ban will help support these establishments in terms of income, especially for regions that receive a lot of tourism.

Sorathep also mentioned the decline in customers’ ability to source food, combined with the significant increase in ingredients and operating costs for restaurants. He also suggested reducing the tax on buildings and land.

“We have to look at the bigger picture,” Srettha said in a statement. “Costs are increasing, but the government is also encouraging tourism, which will help increase restaurant owners’ income.”

After all, Thailand’s economy is largely dependent on tourism, and the restaurant industry contributes over 7% of the country’s GDP. With economic hardship and competition, small vendors are struggling to stay afloat.

If the ban were lifted, not only would supermarkets and convenience stores be able to sell alcohol by the bottle, but we would see restaurants selling more alcohol, and pubs and bars being able to open and serve customers before 5pm.

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This story first appeared here.

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Related: Top Tips for Traveling in Thailand on a Budget

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