Thailand Maintains Alcohol Ban on Buddhist Holidays, Adds Exemptions for Tourism
BANGKOK — Thailand has decided to uphold its alcohol sales ban on five major Buddhist holidays, while introducing new exemptions to cater to tourism, Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Chantraruangthong announced today.
Following a meeting of the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee on March 4, Prasert confirmed that alcohol sales will remain prohibited on the following Buddhist holidays: Makha Bucha (February 12), Visakha Bucha (May 11), Asalha Bucha (July 10), the start of Buddhist Lent (July 11), and the end of Buddhist Lent (October 7).
However, in light of the upcoming “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign, the committee approved several exemptions for tourist locations. Alcohol sales will now be allowed at:
- International airport passenger terminals
- Entertainment venues operating under entertainment venue laws
- Businesses similar to entertainment venues in tourist areas
- Hotels operating under hotel laws
- Special national or international event venues, as designated by the Public Health Minister based on recommendations from the Tourism and Sports Minister
The committee also announced the formation of a special panel to assess the potential impact of allowing electronic alcohol sales, including evaluating the feasibility of new regulations.
Regarding the existing daily alcohol sales restriction between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., Prasert explained that this ban would remain in place due to legal complexities. Any change would conflict with current Revolutionary Council announcements regulating alcohol sale timings.
The committee’s recommendations will now undergo a 15-day public consultation period via a government website. Afterward, they will be submitted to the Public Health Minister and then to the Prime Minister for final approval. Officials expect the new measures to be implemented before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11.
