Thailand enforces stricter alcohol laws with fines of over Rs 27,500 to control daytime drinking

Thailand has introduced stricter alcohol regulations effective November 8, imposing heavier penalties on individuals drinking or being served alcohol during restricted hours or in prohibited places. According to a Bloomberg report, the updated Alcoholic Beverage Control Act has expanded enforcement beyond sellers to include consumers, with fines starting at 10,000 baht (about Rs 27,500).

The law builds on a long-standing ban from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at most retail outlets and supermarkets, a rule in place since 1972. Under the amended act, even those consuming alcohol past the restricted window can face fines. Exceptions remain for licensed entertainment venues, hotels, certified tourist establishments, and international airports. The new rules also tighten advertising standards—only factual content is allowed, and the use of celebrities, influencers, or public figures for alcohol promotion is banned.

Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Thai Restaurant Association, told Bloomberg that the law could hurt restaurants as it restricts customers rather than sales directly. “This will impede the growth of the restaurant industry,” Chanon said, who also operates a Bangkok restaurant.

Business owners on Bangkok’s Khao San Road, a popular tourist area, said alcohol sales have long been loosely enforced. One manager noted that the new law could significantly cut sales, saying, “With the possibility of drinkers themselves being fined, sales of alcohol may halve during those times.”

Critics fear the law could open the door for selective enforcement. Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a member of parliament from the opposition People’s Party, argued that the law favors anti-alcohol groups. “The amended law aims to serve the purpose of those opposing alcohol,” he said. He also warned it could confuse foreign tourists who might unknowingly break the law by drinking after purchasing alcohol before the restricted period.