Summary
Thailand has lifted its afternoon alcohol sales ban for a six-month trial to encourage more tourists to visit. Liquor can now be sold from 2 PM to 5 PM in certain places as officials study its effects.
Key Facts
- Thailand has removed a decades-old ban on selling alcohol in the afternoons.
- The change allows alcohol sales from 2 PM to 5 PM as part of a six-month trial.
- The original ban began in 1972 to prevent government employees from drinking during work hours.
- Alcohol sales are now permitted from 11 AM to midnight for 180 days.
- Those who broke the previous rules faced fines of up to 10,000 baht (about $313).
- Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul aims to boost tourism and the economy.
- Thailand has high alcohol consumption, with popular local beers like Chang and Singha.
- The trial change coincides with the peak tourist season around Christmas and New Year.
