Thailand Balances Booze Ban with Tourism on Buddhist Holy Days

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Thailand's Alcoholic Beverage Board has decided to maintain the ban on alcohol sales during five major Buddhist holy days, but with some exceptions to support tourism. The new rules are expected to start before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11.

 

Chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantararuangthong, a meeting took place at the Government House on March 4. The ban will stay, but alcohol sales will be allowed in certain locations like international airports, designated tourist areas, hotels, and venues hosting major events.

 

“This plan supports tourism while keeping order,” Prasert explained. He added that the Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of Interior will enforce the rules to prevent underage drinking and ensure public safety.

 

The affected holy days are Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asarnha Bucha Day, Khao Phansa Day, and Ok Phansa Day. Alcohol sales will be permitted under strict conditions in:

 

• International airports for departing passengers.
• Licensed tourist area venues.
• Hotels under the Hotel Act.
• Approved venues hosting major events.

 

 

Moreover, the board is studying the potential legalization of online alcohol sales.

 

Prasert clarified that the prohibition periods can't change yet due to Revolutionary Council Announcement No. 253, which governs alcohol sale and consumption hours. Regulatory amendments are underway.

 

Public input will be sought over a 15-day period on an official website before submitting the final proposal to the Minister of Public Health. If approved, it will go to the prime minister for signing and publication in the Royal Gazette.

 

"We expect these rules to be in place by May 11," Prasert mentioned.

 

This decision illustrates Thailand’s effort to respect religious traditions while catering to international tourists and the hospitality sector, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-03-04

 

 

[JustThisOnePostOnly]

22 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

International airports for departing passengers.

 

As I've commented before, this should be for arriving passengers.

[Felt 35]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said: