BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand extended nationwide legal alcohol sales hours under a time-limited trial to assess health, safety and economic impacts.
Restrictions between afternoon and evening lifted
According to an announcement by the National Alcohol Beverage and Policy Control Committee in the Royal Gazette, the previous sales ban between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. was removed. Vendors were now allowed to sell alcohol daily from 11 a.m. until midnight.
In designated special zones with already extended hours – including tourist destinations such as Pattaya and Patong – later closing times continued to apply, with sales permitted until 4 a.m.
180-day nationwide trial period
The new timetable was introduced as a trial regulation for 180 days. During this period, authorities planned to systematically evaluate effects on public health, safety and socio-economic factors. A formal review was scheduled after the trial expired.
Another element of the new rules granted guests one additional hour after the legal closing time of each establishment to finish their drinks before any penalties could be imposed.
Supporters and critics watching closely
The move was closely monitored by supporters of a more liberal alcohol policy as well as by opposition groups warning of negative consequences. Both sides were watching the trial with regard to potential impacts on health risks, accident and crime figures, and economic effects in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
The announcement in Royal Gazette Vol. 142, Part 83 A, dated December 2025, stated that the adjustment served to evaluate the benefits and risks of extended sales hours.
Rules took effect immediately
The new provisions came into force immediately upon publication, requiring restaurants and retailers to adjust their operations. Authorities aimed to compile data from the following months before deciding whether to adopt the measures permanently or revert to the previous rules.
A representative of the responsible committee was described in the publication as aiming to create conditions under which the effects on the population and the economy could be measured.
“The adjustment formed part of a structured review process.”
said a committee representative, as summarized in the announcement.