Thailand Alcohol Rules 2025: Afternoon Ban Lifted in December

In late 2025, Thailand’s alcohol laws went through a dramatic rollercoaster that left tourists, bar owners, and even locals dizzy. What started as tougher rules and bigger fines in November ended with a major U-turn just weeks later. If you’re heading to Phuket, Bangkok, Pattaya, or anywhere else in the Land of Smiles soon, here’s everything you need to know about the current alcohol rules as of December 2025.

November 2025: The Strict New Law Takes Effect

On November 8, 2025, the updated Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568 officially kicked in. The biggest change? For the first time, drinkers—not just sellers—could be fined up to 10,000 baht for consuming alcohol during banned hours or in unlicensed places. Key restrictions introduced in November:

  • No alcohol sales or consumption from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. and after midnight (some areas until 1 a.m.)
  • Complete bans on Buddhist holy days, election days, and public transport
  • Crackdown on alcohol advertising and promotions

The goal was to reduce road accidents and alcohol-related harm, but the sudden enforcement caused chaos and a sharp drop in bar and restaurant revenue, especially in tourist hotspots.

December 2025: Afternoon Ban Scrapped (180-Day Trial)

After massive pushback from the tourism industry and visitors, the Thai government made a swift reversal. On December 2, 2025, the Alcohol Control Committee announced that the controversial 2 p.m.–5 p.m. sales ban is suspended nationwide for a 180-day trial period starting December 3, 2025.

Current Legal Drinking Hours (as of December 2025):

  • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. → Allowed

  • 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. → Allowed (trial period)

  • 5:00 p.m. – midnight → Allowed

  • After midnight → Still banned in most places

24-hour sales remain permitted in:

  • International airports

  • Licensed hotels and their restaurants/bars

  • Officially designated entertainment zones

  • Approved events and tourist areas

What This Means for Tourists Right Now

Good news: You can once again enjoy a cold Singha or Chang with lunch or during the afternoon without worrying about a fine. The nightlife cutoff at midnight still applies outside hotels and entertainment zones, so plan accordingly or head to a licensed venue that’s exempt.

Top Tips to Drink Legally & Safely in Thailand 2025

  1. Always check if the bar/restaurant displays a valid alcohol license.

  2. On Buddhist holidays (Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asanha Bucha, etc.), alcohol sales are completely banned nationwide—no exceptions except airports.

  3. Never drink and drive—DUI penalties are severe.

  4. Use Grab or taxis after midnight if you’re outside an exempt venue.

  5. Stay updated: rules could change again when the 180-day trial ends in June 2026.

Final Thoughts

Thailand has listened to the tourism industry and visitors by lifting the unpopular afternoon ban just in time for the high season. While some restrictions remain, enjoying a beer on the beach or a cocktail at lunch is once again hassle-free in most places.

Cheers to smoother travels—and always drink responsibly!

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