Thailand’s New Alcohol Rules 2025: What You Need to Know
The Thai government has tightened alcohol regulations with the Alcohol Control Act (No. 2) B.E. 2568, effective November 2025.
Note: Thailand Alcohol Rules 2025: Afternoon Ban Lifted in December
This amendment strengthens existing restrictions on when alcohol can be sold and consumed, introduces fines for drinkers, and aims to reduce alcohol-related harm across the country.
💡 Quick Summary:
- New consumer fines: up to ฿10,000
- Prohibited sale/consumption times: 00:00–11:00 & 14:00–17:00
- Applies to locals and tourists
Existing Alcohol Sale Restrictions in Thailand
Before the 2025 update, Thailand already had specific hours when alcohol could not be sold.
Old restrictions:
- No alcohol sales between 2 pm – 5 pm (14:00–17:00)
- No sales from midnight – 11 am in most stores and restaurants
- Applies to 7-Elevens, supermarkets, convenience stores, small cafés, and restaurants without full liquor licences
- Sales are also prohibited on religious holidays and election days
These laws are enforced nationwide and apply even to foreign visitors.
🕑 Tip: Plan your purchases early. Most stores will refuse to sell alcohol at exactly 14:00 — even if you’ve already queued at the counter.
What’s New in 2025
The 2025 amendment focuses on enforcement and consumer responsibility.
1. Fines for Drinkers
You can now be fined up to ฿10,000 if caught drinking during banned hours, not just if you sell it.
2. Stricter Afternoon Ban (14:00–17:00)
While this time window has existed for years, the new law reinforces enforcement. Even if you buy alcohol before 2 pm, continuing to drink after 14:00 can count as an offence.
3. Focus on Public Health
The government says the purpose is to reduce alcohol consumption and related accidents. However, many hospitality businesses have expressed concern about its impact on tourism and nightlife.
4. Limited Venue Exemptions
Hotels, airport lounges, and some entertainment venues may continue to serve alcohol during restricted hours — but smaller restaurants and bars must comply fully.
Tip: Find the best clubs and bars on Bangla Road in Patong.
What This Means for Tourists and Businesses
The updated Alcohol Control Act affects not only local vendors and hospitality operators, but also everyday consumers — including tourists and expatriates. Understanding how these rules apply in practice is essential to avoid unexpected fines or disruptions. Below is a breakdown of what the 2025 regulations mean for both business owners and consumers across Thailand.
For Businesses
- Check your licensing conditions carefully.
- Train staff to stop service before restricted hours.
- Add clear signage for customers to avoid confusion.
- Update POS systems to automatically disable alcohol sales during banned times.
For Consumers (Locals + Tourists)
- Respect the time-windows: 00:00–11:00 and 14:00–17:00.
- Don’t assume your venue is exempt. Ask first.
- Drinking after a banned time — even with an earlier purchase — can lead to fines.
Conclusion
Thailand’s updated alcohol laws in 2025 mark a new era of accountability. Both vendors and drinkers are now responsible for following time restrictions, with fines in place to ensure compliance.
Whether you’re a tourist, expat, or business owner — understanding and respecting the rules helps keep your trip or operations smooth and penalty-free.
⚠️ Remember: Alcohol sales are banned during 00:00–11:00 and 14:00–17:00 every day.
