Bangkok is taking a big step to protect its tourism industry. They’ve suspended the prohibition on selling alcoholic drinks at midday times. This decision, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram, allows liquor sales from 14:00 to 17:00 for the next 180 days. It’s a throwback to 1972, when the U.S. first instituted the ban. Passed in 1887, this law was first meant to prevent federal workers from boozing it up on the clock.
Previously, offenders only received fines of 10,000 baht (around £235/$313) at most. The end of this ban represents an important development and withdrawal from one of the country’s most regressive policies regarding alcohol sales. This plan has been designed to draw more footfall through the busy festive period leading up to Christmas and New Year.
Sophon Saram emphasized the need for this change, stating, “In the past, there were concerns that government employees would sneak out to drink, but it’s a different time now.” This marks an emerging acceptance of shifting social attitudes toward drinking in Thailand. The country is well-known for its intense nightlife and alcohol consumption rates, one of the highest in Asia.
For the next six months, liquor stores, restaurants, and accredited establishments can sell beer, wine, and spirits from 14:00 until midnight. The committee will analyze the impact of removing the ban on tourism and state/local economies. This 6 month trial period provides them with a unique opportunity to collect priceless data. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has expressed his commitment to restoring Thailand’s status as a popular tourist destination after facing challenges due to the pandemic.
Thailand’s decision to at least temporarily lift its ban comes at a critical juncture. This country is known for its famous party lifestyle and world-renowned Thai beers Chang and Singha. The national government is actively promoting tourism. They want to make their community a more friendly place for tourists seeking leisure and recreation opportunities.
Thailand’s majority Buddhist culture has a long history of viewing alcohol consumption with skepticism. Yet this latest policy move represents a delicate balancing act between protecting cultural values and recognizing the need for economic opportunity. And by allowing for afternoon alcohol sales, Thailand is setting itself to reap the benefits of its underlying attractiveness as a vacation hot-spot.