Bangkok, Thailand – The dispute over the trial relaxation of alcohol sales in Thailand is intensifying. Since December 3, 2025, alcohol may be sold between 14:00 and 17:00 for an initial 180 days, until roughly May or June 2026. The regulation is now under heavy pressure, with scientists and experts sounding the alarm over consequences they say are being overlooked.
Experts sound the alarm
Academics including Pon Nopadol (Super Poll), Sorathep Rotpanyanont, Poltep Wichitkunakorn, Kanitha Thaikla and Udomsak Sae-ngow sharply criticize the reports on the trial. They argue the presented data are flawed and incomplete because economic interests and specific tourist areas were prioritized.
From the experts’ perspective, key points such as traffic safety and youth protection are being largely ignored. A policy intended mainly to boost the economy must not come at the cost of human life and public safety. The planned 180-day follow-up study is now meant to reveal the actual consequences of the relaxation.
Clear majority of the population remains opposed
A comprehensive survey in twelve provinces conducted by Super Poll shows clearly: 82.8 percent of respondents want to keep the previous sales restrictions.
Even three months after the first trial phase, sentiment is unchanged. Many people fear more violence, more accidents and health impacts in their communities. The results are being further evaluated as part of the 180-day follow-up study.
Tourists apparently not a factor
Contrary to statements by business representatives, the sales hours play hardly any role for holidaymakers. Nearly 70 percent of Thai and foreign tourists said the extended sales hours had no influence on their trip.
More than 80 percent of visitors would not change their plans for Thailand even without this relaxation. Many see risks rather than benefits, because serious traffic accidents could increase. The province of Chonburi has therefore recommended allowing the rule only in selected tourist areas or during festival periods with strict protective measures.
Little left for small retailers
Hopes for a strong sales boost for small shops have so far not materialized. According to a Super Poll study, 74 percent of retailers could draw no real benefit from the longer sales hours.
Instead of new revenue, the change mainly shifted purchases from evening to afternoon. For the grassroots economy, the new rule thus brings few advantages while social costs continue to rise.
Safety alert: deaths rise sharply
Particularly alarming are the latest safety figures: Alcohol-related deaths at the turn of 2026 increased 4.8-fold compared to 2566.
At the same time, critics say the alcohol industry is increasingly reaching children and adolescents. Targeted outreach to minors rose by 11.6 percentage points after the relaxation, mainly through afternoon advertising on social media. The trend is being monitored further in the 180-day follow-up.
Protection of society comes first
Scientists are calling on the government not to approve a permanent nationwide relaxation. Instead, strict controls and protection of residents from nuisance and violence should be the focus. The proposal from Chonburi to test the relaxation only in certain areas should also be considered.
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Source: Naewna