Thailand’s Alcohol Control Committee has opened a public consultation on a draft regulation setting days when alcohol sales would be prohibited, with feedback accepted until 30 May 2026. The move signals a potential update to existing restrictions, while confirming that recent changes to daytime alcohol sales have not increased accident rates.
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The announcement follows the committee’s 2/2026 meeting on 5 May, chaired by Public Health Minister Patthana Prompat. Data reviewed covered the first 90 days after the lifting of alcohol sale restrictions between 14:00 and 17:00, comparing December 2025 to March 2026 with the same period the previous year. Officials reported no rise in overall accidents, including during the 14:00 to 20:00 window where impacts had been anticipated.
The draft regulation proposes banning alcohol sales on five major Buddhist holidays: Magha Puja Day, Visakha Puja Day, Asalha Puja Day, Buddhist Lent Day, and the end of Buddhist Lent Day. However, exemptions would apply to specific locations, including international airport terminals, licensed entertainment venues, certain tourist-area businesses, licensed hotels, and venues hosting major national or international events.
Authorities emphasised that alcohol is not considered an ordinary product and requires controls to limit harm related to health, accidents and crime. Restricting availability on key days is aligned with recommendations from the World Health Organization as an effective measure to reduce alcohol-related risks. Businesses granted exemptions would still need to implement screening measures to maintain order, ensure safety and prevent underage access.
The update is also driven by legal changes under the Alcohol Beverage Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568 (2025), which came into force on 8 November 2025. The amendment shifted authority for issuing such regulations from the Prime Minister to the Alcohol Control Committee, requiring existing rules to be revised accordingly.
ThaiRath reported that public input gathered through the central legal system website will inform the final version of the regulation. The Department of Disease Control has also been tasked with continuing to monitor health impacts, suggesting further adjustments could follow based on evidence.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 6 May 2026
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