PHUKET, THAILAND – A tourism video created by TAT Phuket and the Phuket City Administration has been deemed compliant with Thailand’s strict alcohol advertising ban.
A tourism video featuring men drinking wine and in a bar will not violate Thailand’s stringent alcohol advertising ban. A health official clarified that the intention is key, and in this case, it is clearly tourism promotion, not the advertisement of drinks.
Men’s Night Out with Wine Bottle in Clip
The video depicts two men enjoying an evening in Phuket Old Town. One scene is set in a rooftop bar overlooking the city, while another shows them at dinner with wine glasses and a bottle of Vietti on the table.
This clip is part of a larger campaign promoting Phuket’s gastronomy, nightlife, and culinary experiences. This overarching purpose became the focal point of the review.
Public Health Official Gives Green Light
Thayakorn Kanthivivorn of the Phuket Provincial Public Health Office explained that authorities assessed the video’s overall purpose. He stated, “Based on the video clip, it is evident that the video’s intention is to promote tourism, not to advertise businesses, services, or alcoholic beverages.”
The enforcement of the amended Alcohol Control Act examines whether content specifically aims to boost the sale or consumption of alcohol. This was not the case here, according to the specialist from the Alcohol and Tobacco Control Division.
Strict Laws, Clear Intent
Section 32/3 of the Alcohol Control Act, effective September 9, 2025, prohibits the use of alcohol brand names, trademarks, or symbols in a manner that could be construed as advertising. Violations can lead to up to one year in prison or a fine of 500,000 Baht.
However, Chapter 4/1 of the act expressly requires consideration of the publisher’s intent. Mr. Thayakorn emphasized, “In this case, the video is merely a part of a tourism promotion campaign. Therefore, it is considered acceptable and not a violation.”
Different from the Heineken Case
This assessment differs from previous guidelines concerning Heineken 0.0. In that instance, a well-known alcohol brand was featured prominently, even though the product was alcohol-free, which was classified as problematic.
The TAT video, conversely, focuses on Phuket as a travel destination. No beverage manufacturer, bar, or restaurant is prominently highlighted.
Helmet Comparison Makes it Clear
Mr. Thayakorn drew a notable comparison: tourism videos that incidentally show motorcyclists without helmets in the background do not automatically promote unsafe riding. The primary focus of the content is decisive.
Background elements that are not central to the production do not render the video a violation of regulations. The official sees this as a consistent approach in evaluating promotional material.
Video Remains Online
The TAT video is deemed acceptable and does not constitute a violation of the alcohol advertising law. It will remain part of the ongoing tourism campaign for Phuket.
What do you think about this? Write us your opinion in the comments.
Source: Phuket News