Thailand: Thailand to ease restrictions on alcohol sales and advertising

Thailand is set to ease restrictions on alcohol sales and advertising, stepping up a push to liberalise a drinks market seen as likely to spur tourism and support smaller breweries, The Straits Times reported on March 20.

Lawmakers in the 500-member House of Representatives voted on March 19 to pass an amended alcohol control Bill, although the legislation still needs Senate approval.

The changes are set to revoke an infamous 1972 military government order that bans the sale of alcohol at any time before 11am and again between 2pm and 5pm.

The Bill also softens rules on advertising to allow the promotion of alcoholic drinks. The law currently bans the display of names or trademarks of alcoholic drinks, or the use of pictures of such products for promotional purposes, making it difficult for small businesses to gain greater visibility.

The amendments are aimed at relaxing “unreasonable control” to stimulate economic activity, said lawmaker Chanin Rungtanakiat, a deputy head of the House committee in charge of steering the Bill.

The laxer rules come amid a loosening of control over Thailand’s alcohol market, which has long been locked in a duopoly held by Singapore-listed Thai Beverage and Boon Rawd Brewery. Earlier in 2025, lawmakers also passed a Bill to promote liquor production by microbreweries and small distilleries.

Thailand is taking a number of steps to boost its attractiveness to tourists. It is the only country in Asia with legal cannabis and is also planning to legalise casinos.

21 March, 2025