New Thai alcohol rules put drinkers on the hook for fines

Alcohol sales in Thailand have been banned at most retail outlets and supermarkets between the hours of 2pm and 5pm since 1972, but changes to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act that take effect on Saturday now mean individuals can be fined 10,000 baht (US$300) or more for drinking or being served alcoholic beverages during prohibited times or in prohibited places. Although there are exemptions for licensed entertainment venues, hotels, certified establishments in tourist areas and airports offering international flights, the onus has been shifted to consumers, and the tightened laws also prohibit advertising of alcoholic beverages unless the content is purely factual. The use of celebrities, influencers or public figures to promote alcoholic beverages for commercial purposes is also banned. The new regulations will have an adverse effect on restaurants because it is the customer that is now “restricted” by the stipulated sale hours, Chanon Koetcharoen, president of the Thai ...