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Thailand Temporarily Lifts Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban in 180-Day Trial

The six-month trial will be judged by traffic crashes, hospital admissions, consumption levels.

Overview

  • Retail alcohol sales are now permitted from 11 a.m. to midnight for 180 days, reversing the long-standing 2 p.m.–5 p.m. blackout.
  • The change took effect via an amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act published in the Royal Gazette.
  • On-site drinking may continue until 1 a.m., though sales must stop at midnight under the new rules.
  • Sales during the newly opened hours are limited to authorised and registered outlets, including shops and restaurants.
  • Officials describe the relaxation as an economic and tourism boost for the holiday season, with safety impacts to be evaluated before any permanent decision.