In a significant update to Thailand’s alcohol laws, the Royal Gazette has announced revised regulations restricting alcohol sales hours nationwide, effective immediately from today, 27 June 2025. The new policy sets clear timeframes for bars, restaurants, and retailers across the country, which will now be allowed to sell alcoholic beverages only between 11am and 2pm, and again from 5pm to midnight daily.
This move, signed into effect by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is aimed at better regulating alcohol consumption in line with recommendations from the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee. The announcement replaces regulations that had been in place since 2015, modernising the rules to address evolving social and tourism needs.
According to the Royal Gazette, these changes were introduced under the powers granted by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act 2008. The new sales hours are expected to impact countless local businesses, including small eateries, nightlife spots, and convenience stores throughout Thailand.
Key Exceptions for Airports, Hotels, and Service Establishments
Despite the sweeping restrictions, the revised policy includes three notable exceptions that will provide relief to certain sectors critical to Thailand’s tourism and hospitality industry. Firstly, alcohol sales will remain permissible in airport terminals that serve international passengers, ensuring that travellers can still purchase drinks during their transit or before departure.
Secondly, service establishments—such as nightclubs, karaoke lounges, and bars—that operate under legal opening hours may continue serving alcohol in accordance with their licenses. This effectively lifts the previously criticised afternoon sales ban that forced bars and restaurants to stop serving alcohol from 2pm to 5pm, giving nightlife operators greater flexibility.
Finally, hotels registered under Thailand’s Hotel Act will retain the right to sell alcohol to their guests during operating hours, maintaining convenience for both domestic and international tourists who rely on hotel dining and bar services.
Balancing Tourism Needs with Responsible Drinking Goals
The Ministry of Public Health and related agencies emphasised that the updated alcohol sales hours aim to reduce alcohol-related harm while supporting the economic vitality of Thailand’s vibrant tourism sector. Authorities believe the policy strikes a balance between promoting responsible drinking habits and accommodating the practical needs of the hospitality industry, especially as Thailand continues to welcome millions of visitors each year.
The announcement has received a mixed response from business owners. Some bar operators praised the removal of the unpopular mid-afternoon ban, which they said had previously disrupted service during peak tourist periods. Others voiced concern over the need to carefully manage sales times to comply with the new national guidelines.
Travellers to Thailand this year are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with these updated regulations to avoid inconvenience or accidental breaches of the law. The government has also pledged to launch educational campaigns to inform locals, expatriates, and tourists about the new rules.
As Thailand continues to refine its alcohol regulations, these latest changes signal a fresh effort to balance public health priorities with the nation’s economic interests in tourism and nightlife—a crucial industry contributing billions to the country’s GDP.