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Thailand keeps Buddhist Holiday Alcohol Ban, adds Tourism Exemptions

Updated: Mar 7

In a decision balancing religious traditions with tourism needs, Thailand will continue to prohibit alcohol sales on five major Buddhist holidays while introducing exemptions for key tourist locations, Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Chantraruangthong announced today.


alcohol ban

Following a meeting of the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee on March 4, Prasert confirmed that alcohol sales will remain banned on Makha Bucha (February 12), Visakha Bucha (May 11), Asalha Bucha (July 10), the start of Buddhist Lent (July 11), and the end of Buddhist Lent (October 7).


However, the committee approved exemptions for several venues to accommodate international visitors during Thailand’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign. Alcohol sales will be permitted at:


  • International airport passenger terminals

  • Entertainment venues operating under entertainment venue laws

  • Businesses similar to entertainment venues located in tourist areas

  • Hotels operating under hotel laws

  • Special national or international event venues with large gatherings, as designated by the Public Health Minister based on recommendations from the Tourism and Sports Minister.


The committee is also establishing a special panel to study the potential impacts of allowing electronic alcohol sales, which will examine the appropriateness and effectiveness of possible regulations.


Regarding the current daily alcohol sales prohibition between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., Prasert explained that this restriction remains unchanged due to legal complications. Any changes would conflict with existing Revolutionary Council announcements governing alcohol sales timing.


The committee’s recommendations will now undergo a 15-day public consultation period via a government website before being submitted to the Public Health Minister and then to the Prime Minister for final approval and publication in the Royal Gazette. Officials expect the new measures to be implemented before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11.




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