Report Thailand Eases Alcohol Restrictions on Buddhist Holidays with Exceptions

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Mashable SEA

 

In a shift that reflects changing attitudes in Thailand's regulatory policies, the government has announced the easing of its alcohol ban on five traditionally sacred Buddhist holidays. As per the announcement made today in the Royal Gazette, these adjustments come into effect immediately, allowing more flexibility for specific venues to serve alcohol. This change ensued after recommendations from the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee, working under the guidance of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act 2008.

 

Previously, a blanket ban on alcohol sales was enforced on Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, Khao Phansa, and Ok Phansa. However, recognising the necessity to cater to the country's socio-economic demands, the Prime Minister's Office issued a revised order specifying where exceptions will apply.

 

Under the new regulations, several types of venues may sell alcoholic drinks:

 

1. Airports: International terminals can serve alcohol to passengers with outbound flights. This change aims to enhance the hospitality offered to international travellers, aligning with global airport standards.
2. Service Establishments: Venues classified under the Service Establishment Act, including certain bars and clubs, can continue operating during these holidays. These establishments provide monitored environments where alcohol can be consumed responsibly.
3. Tourist Zones: Certain recognised tourist areas have been granted permission to sell alcohol. Establishments in these zones must be approved by the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Interior to ensure they uphold safety and health standards.
4. Hotels: Licenced hotels now have the green light to serve alcohol, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without disruption to usual services.
5. Special Events Venues: Locations hosting large-scale national or international events may receive temporary exemptions. These locations need prior listing by the Ministry of Public Health and approval from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to cater to both local and international visitors effectively.

 

Despite these leniencies, the government stresses the need for stringent control measures. Sellers are tasked with maintaining order, verifying customer ages, and implementing robust screening to avoid serving minors.

 

The recent repeal of December 2024's previous alcohol ban declaration ensures the updated rules apply to all future observances of these five holidays. This policy alteration has sparked active public discourse. Proponents appreciate the economic benefits and the move towards modernity, asserting that it could enhance tourism and business for service sectors. Detractors, however, argue it could detract from the spiritual reverence these days demand, diluting cultural traditions.

 

As Thailand balances religious reverence and economic vitality, the conversation surrounding these changes is expected to continue, reflecting the country's dynamic cultural and economic landscape.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

 

 

[treetops]

The article mentions that a list is going to be published of approved locations but no sign of it yet, and the first of the affected days is only just over a day away.

[redwood1]

Hey what about the pointless and  stupid afternoon sales ban?....100% of people what this done away with....

[dinsdale]

So basically nothing. The "exceptions" is basically all of Thailand. What about voting days? This is complete BS spin.

[dinsdale]

28 minutes ago, redwood1 said:

Hey what about the pointless and  stupid afternoon sales ban?....100% of people what this done away with....

You have forgotten the stupid morning sales bans. It's not only 2-5 pm which is all that gets mentioned. Officially there are only 10 hours of alcohol sales in Thailand. Sure it's not the big picture but it is at supermarkets and 711s etc.

[connda]

Still can't have a beer on the beach between 2pm to 5pm.  Freaking stupid rules.  And as people get fed up and figure there are other places to go, it will be...

GOOD MORNING VIETNAM!!!

 

And then the weeping..."We don't understand.  Why does Vietnam get so many tourist who used to come to Thailand." 😢

I'll take a shot at that - They can have a beer on the beach between 2pm and 5pm and the entire Thai cultural isn't "SHOCKED, SHOCKED I SAY BY BAD TOURISTS" whom they now want to be kicked out of their country. 

Headline News: "Foreigner Sits On Sacred Wall."
Confused Tourist: "It's just a bunch of bricks."
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!!  KICK ALL FOREIGNER OUT!!!"

Headline News: "Foreigner Leans Against Sacred Tree."
Confused Tourist: "The tree out in the middle of nowhere has a ribbon around it.  I leaned against to get out of the heat."
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!! BAD BAD FARANGS.  KICK THEM OUT!"

Headline News: "Foreigner Drinks Beer On Beach At 3PM.  Arrested By Police!"
Confused Tourist: "I was drinking beer in Vietnam on the beach at 3PM last week.  What's this stupid Thai law? I didn't even know there was a law!"
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!! BAD DRUNK FARANGS DISRESPECT THAI SACRED BEACH WITH AFTERNOON BEER.  GET RID OF THEM!"