New Thai Law Allows 24/7 Alcohol Sales in Thailand at Certain Venues

The Thai government has made amendments to the Alcohol Beverage Control Act regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages in the country. These regulations will affect the sale of alcohol at specific vendors throughout Thailand, though broader restrictions on sales are still in effect for now. 

The new alcohol control law is expected to lead to better tourism and support for the service industry in Thailand. This loosening of restrictions stands in contrast to recent amendments to substance control laws made by the Thai government that placed restrictions on the recreational use of cannabis. 

Changes to Alcohol Restrictions in Thailand in 2025

In 2025, the Thai government has been making certain changes to the sale of alcohol in the country. Before the changes, most vendors were only permitted to sell alcohol between 11 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 12 am, and no one could sell on Buddihst holidays.

Earlier this year, the Thai government made exceptions to certain venues, enabling them to sell alcohol during Thai Buddhist holidays. Alcohol can now be sold on these 5 holidays:

• Makha Bucha Day
• Visakha Bucha Day
• Asarnha Bucha Day 
• Buddhist Lent Day 
• End of Buddhist Lent

However, only some venues and vendors have permission to sell on these days:

• Thai international airports
• Nightlife locations
• Hotels
• Chartered trains
• Tourist hotspots
• National or international event sites

The sale of alcohol on these holidays at other kinds of locations remains restricted.

What is the New Alcohol Sales Law in Thailand? 

As announced by the Prime Minister’s Office, the new law will permit certain venues in Thailand to sell alcohol 24/7 to locals and foreigners alike. According to the new policy, the following venues can sell alcoholic beverages regardless of the time of day:

• Hotels legally registered under Thailand’s Hotel Act
• International airports in Thailand offering overseas flights (only in passenger service locations)
• Entertainment venues (such as nightclubs) that are fully licensed under Thailand’s Entertainment Act

This is a significant change from the previous regulations in 2015, back when such privileges were only issued to international airport terminals and licensed entertainment venues. 

While consumption of alcohol remains prohibited on trains and inside railway stations, an exception has been made to Bangkok Railway Station in Hua Lamphong because of its strong safety measures. However, alcohol can only be served inside the main hall in an authorized space and only during government-approved events. 

When Will the New Alcohol Regulations in Thailand Take Place?

The new alcohol regulations were made into law when they were published in Thailand’s Royal Gazette on June 27th, 2025. This means that the new law is now in effect, and because no significant infrastructure or regulation changes were made, visitors can begin purchasing alcohol at the approved venues immediately.

Purchasing Alcohol as a Tourist in Thailand

Foreigners visiting Thailand are permitted to consume and purchase alcohol legally in the newly exempted locations, regardless of the time of day. However, locations not affected by the new law are still restricted from selling alcohol from 12 am to 11 am and 2 am to 5 am. These locations include:

• Grocery and convenience stores
• Restaurants and bars (that are outside the exempted venues)
• Department stores 
• Supermarkets

During restricted hours, these establishments will not sell alcohol of any kind to any customers, Thai or foreign, as they could face fines or other harsh penalties. 

However, there is no law prohibiting the consumption of alcohol during restricted times, only purchases. Therefore, visitors can simply buy alcohol during approved times and “stock up” so that it is available during the off-hours.

What to Do if You’re Impacted by the New Law

If you want to know more about the recent alcohol consumption policy updates and how this may impact you, reach out to Siam Legal for professional assistance. As a full-service law firm with over 20 years of experience, our lawyers have the skills and experience to help you understand the new regulations and what you need to do to avoid trouble with Thai law.

We have a team of corporate lawyers to assist you in swiftly establishing a company that has every possible incentive and advantage, and is fully compliant with Thai alcohol laws. 

If you’ve been charged with consuming or selling alcohol illegally, our criminal defense lawyers will assist you in dealing with the authorities or defend you in court if necessary.

Contact Siam Legal to help you navigate the new alcohol regulations in Thailand and enjoy your stay without worry.

Category: Civil and Commercial Law, Criminal Law