Thailand, Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy, is considering lifting its long-standing daytime alcohol sales ban in a bid to stimulate tourism and boost beverage industry revenue.
Lawmakers have overwhelmingly passed an amended alcohol control bill that would repeal a 1972 military-era order prohibiting alcohol sales before 11 a.m. and between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. The changes aim to remove “unreasonable control” and encourage economic activity, said Chanin Rungtanakiat, deputy head of the House committee overseeing the bill.
Previously Thailand relaxed the sales for hotels in the afternoon and deferred each province to relax the alcohol sales ban.
The bill also proposes loosening restrictions on alcohol advertising, which currently ban the display of brand names, logos or product images for promotional purposes — a rule critics say hampers small businesses seeking greater visibility, according to Bloomberg.
The proposed reform is the latest in a series of moves to liberalize the country’s alcohol market. Last year, the government eliminated a 54% import tariff on wine to boost tourism and domestic wine consumption.
Officials are also reviewing the ban on alcohol sales during Buddhist holidays, which could further ease market restrictions.
Wine consumption in Thailand saw significant growth during the pandemic. According to Thai customs data compiled by Vino Joy News, wine imports jumped from 1.53 billion thai baht (about US$43 million) to 4.07 billion baht (US$114 million) in 2022, driven by relaxed pandemic measures, a rebound in tourism, and shifting consumer preferences from spirits to wine.
Imports dipped slightly in 2023 to 3.92 billion baht (US$110 million), before climbing again to 4.43 billion baht ($124 million), signaling resilience and long-term growth potential in the market.
This year, the government expects to welcome 40 million foreign tourists — a return to pre-pandemic levels.
Discover more from Vino Joy News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
