Report Thailand Eases Alcohol Laws Amid Concerns Over Safety Impact

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

In a significant policy shift, Thailand is set to relax its stringent alcohol laws, aiming to empower small- and medium-sized brewers and stimulate economic activity. The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities. This adjustment is expected to aid small breweries in competing internationally and fostering economic growth, particularly in rural areas through community distilleries.

 

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country. Chuwit Chantaros, the network's secretary, cautioned that increased accessibility to alcohol might lead to higher consumption rates and, consequently, a surge in road accidents and other alcohol-related incidents. With Thailand already reporting a road traffic death rate of 25.4 per 100,000 in 2021, among the highest in Asia, any increase in alcohol consumption could amplify these figures.

 

Mr Chantaros attributed the nation's high alcohol-related death toll to the ethics and responsibility of alcohol distributors, indicating that policy decisions could further impact this sensitive area. He highlighted the significant economic losses, amounting to over 165 billion baht or 1% of Thailand's GDP, arising from traffic accidents linked to alcohol.

 

The government insists that the new laws will level the playing field for smaller producers, allowing them to distribute products more widely, including in kegs—a previously restricted option. This move is expected to encourage the rise of new independent alcohol brands, potentially boosting the local economy.

 

As Thailand navigates this policy change, the Alcohol Watch Network vows to continue advocating for victims of alcohol-related incidents. The critical challenge remains balancing economic progress with public safety, and the government faces pressure to monitor the effects of these relaxed laws closely. Policymakers are urged to consider potential consequences and remain vigilant to mitigate any adverse impacts on public health and safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-20

 

 

[Geoffggi]

Try reducing the high taxation on imported spirits & wine this would help considerably !!!

[smedly]

16 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country

perhaps you can explain your logic in detail because quite frankly it sounds like nonsense 

 

people will drink in Thailand no matter what, it does howerer add flexibility especially in tourist areas

[ChrisY1]

"the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms"......well of course they have.....just a group of tea totteling wowsers.....

Thai drinkers drink any time....rice spirits at less than Thb50/bottle, distributed by Thai brewers,  should be far more worrying than tourists habits!

[JoePai]

They need to stamp out the cheap, clear, Thai rotgut that is available everywhere foir a few Baht  - stick to beer**, you can't go far wrong 

 

**by that I mean real beer, not the rubbish served from the large breweries

[The Alien]

First, you needed to stop this nonsense 2-5pm ban. 

[Nickcage49]

This is the same stupid argument about why they tax wine so much. Kids and poor people don't drink wine. They also don't drink craft beer. They drink the cheapest crap they can get their hands on.

[Ubonian Canadian]

I'd love to get my hands on a nice brown ale. Something akin to a Sleemans Honey Brown.

Cold & crisp.......yummmm

I support craft beer and only hope they don't follow in the footsteps of Leo, Singha & Chang.

[newbee2022]

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities.

Well, how long will it takes that profit grafters will mix some Methanol with Ethanol.?😳

[heybruce]

"In a significant policy shift, Thailand is set to relax its stringent alcohol laws, aiming to empower small- and medium-sized brewers and stimulate economic activity. The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities. "

 

Excellent.  There are many young people in Thailand who appreciate good beer, and some that know how to brew it.  I look forward to a much better Thai beer selection than the stuff currently available.

[StevieAus]

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

In a significant policy shift, Thailand is set to relax its stringent alcohol laws, aiming to empower small- and medium-sized brewers and stimulate economic activity. The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities. This adjustment is expected to aid small breweries in competing internationally and fostering economic growth, particularly in rural areas through community distilleries.

 

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country. Chuwit Chantaros, the network's secretary, cautioned that increased accessibility to alcohol might lead to higher consumption rates and, consequently, a surge in road accidents and other alcohol-related incidents. With Thailand already reporting a road traffic death rate of 25.4 per 100,000 in 2021, among the highest in Asia, any increase in alcohol consumption could amplify these figures.

 

Mr Chantaros attributed the nation's high alcohol-related death toll to the ethics and responsibility of alcohol distributors, indicating that policy decisions could further impact this sensitive area. He highlighted the significant economic losses, amounting to over 165 billion baht or 1% of Thailand's GDP, arising from traffic accidents linked to alcohol.

 

The government insists that the new laws will level the playing field for smaller producers, allowing them to distribute products more widely, including in kegs—a previously restricted option. This move is expected to encourage the rise of new independent alcohol brands, potentially boosting the local economy.

 

As Thailand navigates this policy change, the Alcohol Watch Network vows to continue advocating for victims of alcohol-related incidents. The critical challenge remains balancing economic progress with public safety, and the government faces pressure to monitor the effects of these relaxed laws closely. Policymakers are urged to consider potential consequences and remain vigilant to mitigate any adverse impacts on public health and safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-20

 

 

 

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

In a significant policy shift, Thailand is set to relax its stringent alcohol laws, aiming to empower small- and medium-sized brewers and stimulate economic activity. The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities. This adjustment is expected to aid small breweries in competing internationally and fostering economic growth, particularly in rural areas through community distilleries.

 

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country. Chuwit Chantaros, the network's secretary, cautioned that increased accessibility to alcohol might lead to higher consumption rates and, consequently, a surge in road accidents and other alcohol-related incidents. With Thailand already reporting a road traffic death rate of 25.4 per 100,000 in 2021, among the highest in Asia, any increase in alcohol consumption could amplify these figures.

 

Mr Chantaros attributed the nation's high alcohol-related death toll to the ethics and responsibility of alcohol distributors, indicating that policy decisions could further impact this sensitive area. He highlighted the significant economic losses, amounting to over 165 billion baht or 1% of Thailand's GDP, arising from traffic accidents linked to alcohol.

 

The government insists that the new laws will level the playing field for smaller producers, allowing them to distribute products more widely, including in kegs—a previously restricted option. This move is expected to encourage the rise of new independent alcohol brands, potentially boosting the local economy.

 

As Thailand navigates this policy change, the Alcohol Watch Network vows to continue advocating for victims of alcohol-related incidents. The critical challenge remains balancing economic progress with public safety, and the government faces pressure to monitor the effects of these relaxed laws closely. Policymakers are urged to consider potential consequences and remain vigilant to mitigate any adverse impacts on public health and safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-20

 

 

 

16 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

In a significant policy shift, Thailand is set to relax its stringent alcohol laws, aiming to empower small- and medium-sized brewers and stimulate economic activity. The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities. This adjustment is expected to aid small breweries in competing internationally and fostering economic growth, particularly in rural areas through community distilleries.

 

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country. Chuwit Chantaros, the network's secretary, cautioned that increased accessibility to alcohol might lead to higher consumption rates and, consequently, a surge in road accidents and other alcohol-related incidents. With Thailand already reporting a road traffic death rate of 25.4 per 100,000 in 2021, among the highest in Asia, any increase in alcohol consumption could amplify these figures.

 

Mr Chantaros attributed the nation's high alcohol-related death toll to the ethics and responsibility of alcohol distributors, indicating that policy decisions could further impact this sensitive area. He highlighted the significant economic losses, amounting to over 165 billion baht or 1% of Thailand's GDP, arising from traffic accidents linked to alcohol.

 

The government insists that the new laws will level the playing field for smaller producers, allowing them to distribute products more widely, including in kegs—a previously restricted option. This move is expected to encourage the rise of new independent alcohol brands, potentially boosting the local economy.

 

As Thailand navigates this policy change, the Alcohol Watch Network vows to continue advocating for victims of alcohol-related incidents. The critical challenge remains balancing economic progress with public safety, and the government faces pressure to monitor the effects of these relaxed laws closely. Policymakers are urged to consider potential consequences and remain vigilant to mitigate any adverse impacts on public health and safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-20

 

 

I wonder who is behind the Thai Alcohol Network in their opposition to relaxing alcohol laws to assist craft brewers?

Alcohol including home brewed alcohol is freely available everywhere at a very cheap price.

 

[Bert got kinky]

 

However, the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms, warning that these relaxed laws could exacerbate alcohol-related deaths in the country.

At last a voice of reason.

This dangerous drug ruins lives and should be banned.

I'm sure that my comment will have the morons pushing the 'thumbs down' emoji, so press away.

 

 

[Colki]

So having greater choice of brands will increase consumption. Cannot see the logic to that statement. If worried from road toll injuries, deaths why not enforce current laws to help prevent this happening.

[khunjeff]

1 hour ago, newbee2022 said:

Well, how long will it takes that profit grafters will mix some Methanol with Ethanol.?😳

 

In craft beer, which is time consuming and expensive to produce, and for which consumers are willing to pay a high price? Never.

[newbee2022]

2 minutes ago, khunjeff said:

 

In craft beer, which is time consuming and expensive to produce, and for which consumers are willing to pay a high price? Never.

If someone would offer cheap craft beer I would be careful. Methanol is cheaper than Ethanol

[riverhigh]

"Chuwit Chantaros, the network's secretary, cautioned that increased accessibility to alcohol might lead to higher consumption rates and, consequently, a surge in road accidents and other alcohol-related incidents."

 

I consider Chuwits's assumption extremely weak  that selling beer at the the lacal brewary or selected stores will increase accessability. The increased accessability will be miniscule compared to the overall accessability dominated by the major brewaries. This is all about giving the consumer choice and promoting a competitive market.

[Garouda]

You have to expect the beer and alcohol lobby to use the weapon of fear to protect its interests.

[Garouda]

And by the way, in rural locations, you can buy beer and alcohol at any time…

[Ralf001]

17 minutes ago, Garouda said:

And by the way, in rural locations, you can buy beer and alcohol at any time…

 

thats pretty much how it is in all cities too... out in suburbia can buy basically 24/7.

[Joseph98765]

3 hours ago, ChrisY1 said:

"the Alcohol Watch Network has raised alarms"......well of course they have.....just a group of tea totteling wowsers.....

Thai drinkers drink any time....rice spirits at less than Thb50/bottle, distributed by Thai brewers,  should be far more worrying than tourists habits!

I was going to say the same.... laws won't stop people to drink! if they want to drink 200 bottles tomorrow they buy it when is allowed and problem solved.

[ronnie50]

2 hours ago, StevieAus said:

I wonder who is behind the Thai Alcohol Network in their opposition to relaxing alcohol laws to assist craft brewers?

Alcohol including home brewed alcohol is freely available everywhere at a very cheap price.

Exactly. Why their outrage? Someone else behind it? The two big players don't want additional local (craft) beer competition - or any foreign competitition either which is taxed to the moon. That's why a pint of Stella (when you can find it) costs 400-500 baht. Instead the bars and restaurants flog Singha and Chang  draft - and God-forbid - "Leo". At least this government is doing one of the things the Move Forward party had called for (allowing small micro brewers make and sell draft craft beer). Of course, by now, the oligharcs have probably bought up all the bigger micro brewers, and thus the announcement.

 

As for the real culprit of alcohol-related problems in Thailand - it's the Lhao Khao (rice whisky) - oh and of course no one upcountry buys the 40% alcohol version from 7-ELEVEN. They make their own 80% version! Where is the Thai Alcohol Networks advocacy to ban that practice??

[hotchilli]

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The new regulations, effective from 13th May, simplify the licensing process for alcohol production and sales, providing microbrewers and craft beer producers with greater commercial opportunities.

Please brew some decent craft beers at reasonable prices.

[cedel]

18 hours ago, Geoffggi said:

Try reducing the high taxation on imported spirits & wine this would help considerably !!!

plus abolish the stupid ban related to the time of purchase (known as 2-5 PM ban).. but also 00-11 AM ban..! 

This is really, but really annoying when you lose 1 or 2 hours in the traffic to go shopping afternoon and you are prohibited to buy a bottle of wine... counter productive! Nobody will lose time and money to come back again after 5pm !! 

[Watawattana]

2 hours ago, Ubonian Canadian said:

I'd love to get my hands on a nice brown ale. Something akin to a Sleemans Honey Brown.

Cold & crisp.......yummmm

I support craft beer and only hope they don't follow in the footsteps of Leo, Singha & Chang.

Get over to Da Nang if you can.  I was there last week and there's a decent craft beer scene, including what you describe.  The picture is one of the places I did my "research" in.  For balance, I did end up at a Russian bar later in that evening, where they claimed that San Miguel was a craft beer.  I thought about telling them that this was a worse distortion of the facts that anything Putin has ever said, but thought better of it.

[quake]

4 hours ago, JoePai said:

They need to stamp out the cheap, clear, Thai rotgut that is available everywhere foir a few Baht  - stick to beer**, you can't go far wrong 

 

**by that I mean real beer, not the rubbish served from the large breweries

 

Yeah, The farmers all have loads of money to by beer everyday.

one big chang cost more than a small bottle of  ( Whiskey White ).

Let the farmers and the like,  keep there cheap Lao Khao. 

 

Western rich beer snobs telling the Thai poor,  what to do. 

 

[JoePai]

48 minutes ago, quake said:

 

Yeah, The farmers all have loads of money to by beer everyday.

one big chang cost more than a small bottle of  ( Whiskey White ).

Let the farmers and the like,  keep there cheap Lao Khao. 

 

Western rich beer snobs telling the Thai poor,  what to do. 

 

Round here all the farmers drink is Lao / Chang - they know no different  🤣

[JFHuaHin]

Craft beer is not expensive to produce,

I brew my own and the cost per pint is cheap.

Mango pale ale, 10-15 baht per pint

Yorkshire bitter 15 baht per pint.

 

The above is using simple malt extract beer kits ordered from UK or NZ

 

So if I can do it, why can't breweries that have more efficient processes do it. The answer is greed.

[GanDoonToonPet]

I've been to Craft in Bangkok a couple of times. Interesting craft beers there and only B500+ a pint. Only ever had 1 or 2 each visit before switching to the B99 Chang. 🤪

[Sydebolle]

As long as a big bottle of beer is sold at less than THB 40/bottle in Laos by Beer Lao - and the latter is the country's biggest tax payer and everybody makes (little) money irrespective of Phongsali, Xam Neua or Attapeu - all in the sticks along Indochinese borders - at the same price as Vientiane ........ go figure.

Alcohol in Thailand is massively taxed and burdened with excise fees - result is, that boo leggers and smugglers are busy like hell. Just waiting for someone to start copying those banderoles over bottle necks or can openers. The loser is the state to the benefit of government officers (turning the other side) and the customer. 

[greeneking]

1 hour ago, hotchilli said:

Please brew some decent craft beers at reasonable prices.

It would be a good start.

And then allow the promotion of these products. Still against the law?

The distribution networks and shelf space currently is dominated by the big boys.

Online sales still against the law?