Thailand Relaxes Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban in Six-Month Trial

Thailand has eased its decades-old restrictions on afternoon alcohol sales, allowing the purchase of alcoholic drinks between 11:00 a.m. and midnight during a six-month trial period.

The old rule, which prohibited alcohol sales from mid-afternoon to early evening, was originally introduced to deter government workers from leaving duty stations to drink. Officials say the regulation no longer aligns with modern realities, prompting the temporary relaxation while authorities study its impact on public behaviour and safety.

Despite being known globally for its nightlife and tourism culture, Thailand continues to uphold strict religiously influenced alcohol regulations. Government officials say the revised hours are a practical adjustment, although alcohol use remains a sensitive issue in the predominantly Buddhist nation.

Health authorities have repeatedly highlighted Thailand’s high rates of alcohol-related road accidents. Data from recent years shows tens of thousands of deaths linked to drunk driving, underscoring ongoing concerns even as the country updates its sales policy.