Cheers for Small Investors: Senate Passes Community Liquor Bill

[webfact]

Reference picture courtesy of Unsplash

 

Small entrepreneurs across Thailand have a reason to celebrate as the Senate has passed the long-awaited draft Excise Tax Act, commonly known as the Community Liquor Bill.

 

This momentous decision marks the end of a long-standing monopoly, allowing small-scale producers to obtain licenses to manufacture and sell a variety of alcoholic beverages.

 

On the historic night of March 10, 177 senators were present for the vote. During the second reading, 156 voted in favour, with 11 against and 10 abstentions. This was swiftly followed by the third reading, where 166 supported the bill, three opposed it, and eight abstained.

 

Pol. Lt. Gen. Boonchan Nuansa, chairman of the Senate Committee on Law and Justice, expressed a critical concern post-vote. During a recent visit to Nan province, he noted that while local producers were eager for the bill's implementation, they were worried about the potential spike in production costs due to imported bottles.

 

He highlighted the tight control major corporations hold over resources, forcing small businesses to consider costly imports. Boonchan urged relevant agencies to consider domestic bottle production, which could also bolster local economies.

 

The Craft Beer Association expressed elation on their Facebook page, heralding a new era for small entrepreneurs and farmer groups.

Previously, stringent restrictions prevented them from producing specific liquors like gin, rum, brandy, and whiskey, or bottle beer without meeting hefty minimum production requirements of 30,000 litres per day. Now, these barriers have been lifted, levelling the playing field for all.

 

The bill now awaits submission by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for royal endorsement. Once approved by His Majesty the King and published in the Royal Gazette, it will become law.

 

For years, the alcohol production landscape in Thailand has been dominated by giants Thai Beverage Pcl and Boon Rawd Brewery Co. Small entrepreneurs have faced formidable barriers, including hefty performance requirements and awkward licensing procedures.

 

This new legislation promises to usher in a more equitable environment, offering opportunities for smaller players to thrive and contribute to the vibrant libation industry.

 

As Thailand stands on the brink of this regulatory transformation, small producers across the country are raising their glasses, ready to craft their own destinies in a market once inaccessible to them.

 

The passing of this bill not only marks a triumph for small businesses but also a step forward for economic diversification and community empowerment, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2025-03-11

 

 

[JoePai]

At last, so maybe now we can get good beer at sensible prices 

[topt]

3 hours ago, JoePai said:

At last,

Great if it goes through however this leaves me wondering if the major players can potentially try and hold it up -

 

4 hours ago, webfact said:

The bill now awaits submission by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for royal endorsement. Once approved by His Majesty the King and published in the Royal Gazette, it will become law.

 

[hotchilli]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

He highlighted the tight control major corporations hold over resources, forcing small businesses to consider costly imports. Boonchan urged relevant agencies to consider domestic bottle production, which could also bolster local economies.

Always a hitch.... 

[hotchilli]

4 hours ago, JoePai said:

At last, so maybe now we can get good beer at sensible prices 

Was given a bottle of Leo the other night, poured it into a glass, 30 seconds later it was as flat as a pancake... the head was completely gone, disgusting beer.

Please for the love of god some small craft beer producer gives us something drinkable and affordable..

possible even a bitter or dark beer.

[MarkBR]

This has potential to savage the large brewers if someone produces some aroi craft beer

[greeneking]

1 hour ago, MarkBR said:

This has potential to savage the large brewers if someone produces some aroi craft beer

If the large brewers were sensible this  would be the incentive to brew quality beers themselves. They are equipped to do it and their distribution  networks are all in place.

Or, they could copy the big western  brewers and just buy up the best of their rivals.

 

[JFHuaHin]

So what are the legal requirements for a micro pub ( only onsite) if this bill becomes law.

 

Previously you needed a factory license or similar.

 

Has this changed