As economic problems continue, the prime minister is considering lifting Thailand’s unique alcohol ban, and in future it may be possible to buy alcohol between 2pm and 5pm.
Thailand has a ban on selling alcohol between 2pm and 5pm that has remained in place since it was introduced under the coup led by Thanom Kittikachorn in 1972. It was introduced to discourage Thais from drinking alcohol during the day.
Because the law has been in place for over 50 years, many have questioned whether it still applies in modern society, including Sorathep Rojipocanarchi, president of the Restaurant Business Club, who wrote an open letter to Prime Minister Suretta Tavisin on the issue.
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Thailand considers lifting 2pm-5pm alcohol ban to boost tourism
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The letter said the regulation is outdated and foreigners visiting restaurants often wonder why they cannot order alcoholic drinks. Lifting the ban would help support these restaurants in terms of revenue, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Sorathep also pointed out that restaurants are losing customers due to a sharp increase in food and operating costs, and proposed lowering taxes on buildings and land.
“We need to look at the bigger picture on this issue,” Sletta said in a statement. “Costs are rising, but the government is also promoting tourism, which will translate into increased revenue for restaurateurs.”
After all, Thailand’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, and the food and beverage industry accounts for more than 7 percent of the country’s GDP. Economic problems and competition have left small businesses struggling to survive.
If the ban is lifted, not only will supermarkets and convenience stores be able to sell alcohol by the bottle, but restaurants will be able to sell more alcohol and pubs and bars will be able to open and serve customers before 5pm.
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.
