The Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association (TABBA) wants the government to consider scrapping the draft law banning online sales of alcholic beverages, arguing that it would be unfair to the beverage-makers and also restricted the basic right of consumers, said association president Thanakorn Kuptajit.
His reaction follows the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee’s endorsement on July 2 of the draft proposed by the PM’s Office, which bans the sale of alcoholic beverages via electronic channel to prevent youth from easily accessing such products, and to reduce the impact on society of alcoholic drinks.
He said that the law would affect alcoholic drinks-makers who do business honestly and in line with the current law. If they cannot do business, they might have to shut down business, he warned.
Reacting to concerns that online sales will make it easier for youth to access the beverages, he said TABBA could get the beverage-makers to check the age of the buyers, record their information, the time of the transaction and product delivery.
He added that the draft was not in line with the current policy of promoting social distancing and discouraging non-essential travel.
He said the private businesses were willing to follow the law but wanted the law to ensure fair treatment to all.
