Thailand will soon restore a familiar convenience for international travellers. Starting December 2025, the country will relax its long-standing afternoon alcohol ban through a six-month national trial programme. The move aims to improve the visitor experience, support the hospitality sector, and strengthen Thailand’s global appeal as a leading tourism destination.
Why the Change Matters
The previous rules under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act barred alcohol sales between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.. The regulation confused many travellers and added pressure on restaurants, bars, and hotels. Violators risked hefty fines, and the restrictions also affected daytime tourism activities such as beach lounging, poolside dining, and city tours.
Businesses across major tourist areas reported drops in revenue and disruptions to the flow of daily operations. Afternoon service, which forms a major part of tourist spending, saw reduced demand due to the restricted alcohol window.
A Trial Designed to Restore Normalcy
Under the new policy, alcohol sales will resume during the afternoon hours nationwide. The trial will begin in early December 2025 and run for six months. Authorities will assess the impact on tourism, local businesses, and public safety. If the results are positive, the policy may extend beyond 2026.
The temporary relaxation aims to strike a balance between maintaining responsible drinking regulations and supporting the country’s economic needs. Tourism remains one of Thailand’s largest revenue sources, and restoring flexibility for visitors is seen as an essential step forward.
What Tourists Can Expect
Travellers will soon be able to enjoy a drink in the afternoon without worrying about penalties or confusing time restrictions. Whether relaxing at a beach club, dining in a city café, or enjoying a rooftop cocktail, the familiar holiday experience will return.
Popular tourist destinations such as Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok, and Krabi are expected to benefit the most. These areas rely heavily on daytime foot traffic, and the lifted ban will allow smoother service flow and better guest satisfaction.
Existing Exemptions Will Continue
Some establishments were never affected by the afternoon ban. These included:
- Licensed entertainment venues
- Certified hotels
- Tourist-designated zones
- International airports
These locations already had approval to serve alcohol throughout the day. During the upcoming trial, these exemptions will remain unchanged, ensuring consistent service for travellers passing through major hubs.
Boost for the Tourism and Hospitality Industry
The decision reflects the government’s commitment to revitalising tourism. With millions of visitors expected in 2025 and 2026, easing alcohol restrictions aligns with broader efforts to enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness. The country continues to promote safer drinking practices, upgraded nightlife zones, improved transportation networks, and stricter tourist safety measures.
Local businesses anticipate revenue improvements as midday dining and leisure activities resume their usual patterns. Bars and restaurants will also have greater flexibility in designing packages, events, and promotions that cater to international guests.
Monitoring Public Safety and Community Impact
Authorities plan to observe the social and economic effects of the trial closely. The focus will be on maintaining public safety while supporting tourism growth. Officials will gather feedback from hospitality associations, local communities, law enforcement, and regional tourism boards.
If the trial shows that the relaxed rules do not cause negative impacts, policymakers may revise the law permanently. This would offer long-term clarity for travellers and businesses, reducing confusion and promoting consistent nationwide standards.
What This Means for Future Travellers
Visitors planning trips for late 2025 and 2026 can expect a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday experience. Afternoon drinks—once considered part of the charm of travelling in Thailand—will again become a simple pleasure. The change highlights Thailand’s responsiveness to industry needs and its ongoing commitment to enhancing the visitor experience.
As the country moves toward the trial period, both tourists and businesses look forward to a return of convenience, comfort, and flexibility. With this renewed approach, Thailand reinforces its position as one of the world’s most welcoming and tourist-friendly destinations.
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