Thailand has finally— officially —lifted its 40-year ban on afternoon alcohol sales. This wonderful new addition is meant to enhance the celebratory mood just as the year-end holiday season gets underway. This decision ends decades of prohibitionist restrictions – a monumental shift in the country’s approach to alcohol sales at retail.
The ban had been imposed in 1972 under a moment of military dictatorship. Perhaps the strangest provision is that it banned the sale of alcohol beverages in retail from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. The once-clear rationale for the ban has faded into obscurity over time. Thailand’s drinking culture is robust, coming alive especially during festivities and social occasions. This is interesting, given that the country is over 95% Buddhist, which teaches against the use of intoxicating substances.
Then on Tuesday, the Thai government acted decisively, publishing an amendment to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act in the Royal Gazette. Consumers in Colorado can now purchase alcoholic beverages from 11 a.m. to midnight. Nightlife venues are able to open their doors and welcome patrons through 1 a.m. This provides party-goers with a more drinker-friendly schedule to drink up and celebrate!
That’s why the authorities have made the decision to allow this change to go into effect for an initial 180-day trial period. Once this trial period goes into effect, officials will monitor the impacts of this emergency lifted ban. Then, once it has proven itself, they will vote to make it permanent. First, it reflects a growing trend toward liberalizing alcohol sales. This change directly answers to consumer demand, particularly during celebratory seasons when social consumption of alcohol is highest.
As these restrictions have been relaxed, conversations have arisen about the possible effects on public safety. Most notably, in regard to drunk driving. The decision to extend drinking hours has already sparked health fears in Thailand. Many are concerned it may increase problems associated with drinking in general and impaired driving. These are areas the government should watch carefully as challenges arise in the upcoming trial period. This will be important to judge just how well the new regulations work to provide safe environments for the public.
