Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, is currently considering the possibility of lifting the long-standing ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages during afternoon hours. This decision is a response to the pleas of the struggling tourism industry, which has been grappling with rising costs and decreased consumer spending.
The existing law in Thailand prohibits the sale of alcohol from 2pm to 5pm, posing a challenge for tourists looking to partake in the country’s offerings, particularly in high temperatures reaching nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition to providing relief to parched travelers, lifting this ban could also provide support to bars, hotels, and dining establishments that have been facing financial hardships.
The momentum for this change was sparked by a letter submitted to Prime Minister Srettha by the Restaurant Business Club, urging for swift action to alleviate the financial strain on the industry. The letter proposed the repeal of the 52-year-old ban on afternoon alcohol sales as a measure to mitigate rising costs and stimulate economic growth.
In response to these appeals, Prime Minister Srettha remarked, “We have to consider the overall situation. While costs are rising, the government is also promoting tourism, which will contribute to boosting restaurant operators’ income.” This demonstrates the government’s recognition of the need to balance economic growth with industry support.
The pressure on Prime Minister Srettha to revitalize the economy has intensified, with a recent opinion survey revealing that over half of the Thai population is dissatisfied with his leadership. With the goal of attracting 36.7 million travelers this year, the nation is aiming for a 3% growth in gross domestic product, and has already welcomed 17.5 million foreign visitors in the first half of the year.
Furthermore, in the wake of the challenging post-pandemic recovery, the Thai Hotels Association has also called for government assistance, suggesting tax deductions or subsidies for renovations to aid the industry in its recovery.
It is important to note that the ban on afternoon alcohol sales has been in effect since 1972, when Thailand emerged as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations. The potential regulatory change underscores the government’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the tourism sector.
In addition, the move to consider ending the afternoon alcohol ban comes as Thailand prepares to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic, tightening regulations on its use, sales, and cross-border transactions, despite its decriminalization two years ago.
As Thailand grapples with the economic consequences of the global pandemic, these proposed measures have the potential to pave the way for a revival of the tourism industry. The government’s willingness to consider this change reflects a proactive approach to addressing the needs of the sector, which has been a crucial driver of the nation’s economy.
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