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Thailand tightens alcohol laws: Penalties for day drinkers increase!
Thailand is tightening alcohol laws from November 8, 2025. Higher penalties, new sales hours and advertising restrictions impact tourism.
Thailand tightens alcohol laws: Penalties for day drinkers increase!
In Thailand, alcohol control laws were recently tightened and that caused quite a stir. From November 8, 2025, a stricter drinking ban will apply. The existing restrictions on the sale of alcohol between 2pm and 5pm remain in place and the penalties for doing so are severe. Anyone who drinks during prohibited times or in certain places will face fines of at least 10,000 baht, which is the equivalent of around INR 27,500. These regulations, which have been in force since 1972, affect most retail stores and supermarkets; The only exceptions are licensed entertainment venues, hotels, certified tourist establishments and international airports, as reported by curlytales.com.
The increased measures are part of a broader context addressing the health and social risks of excessive drinking in Thailand. While these strictly regulated laws are intended to protect the population, experts have expressed concerns that such a course could potentially have a negative impact on tourism, particularly in popular cities such as Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. After all, these are known for their lively nightlife and attract many international visitors who want to enjoy not only the beaches but also the evening entertainment.
New sales times are being planned
But lawmakers are under pressure to find a balance. Critics fear that the strict regulations could lead to problems, particularly for restaurants and other catering businesses. An interesting example could be the situation of a customer who buys a beer at 1:59 p.m. and doesn't leave until 2:05 p.m. This means he may be targeted by the new rules.