Thailand has scrapped a long-standing ban on the sale of alcohol during major Buddhist holidays, following a government announcement made on Friday (9 May).
The decision was confirmed in an official statement published in the Royal Gazette on 9 May 2025, with the new rules taking effect immediately. The announcement revokes a previous order issued by the Office of the Prime Minister in December 2024, which had upheld the prohibition of alcohol sales on religious days such as Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asalha Bucha, the beginning of Buddhist Lent, and the end of Buddhist Lent.
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Under the updated regulations, sales of alcohol will now be permitted on these days in certain locations, including international airport terminals, legally licensed entertainment venues, and businesses classified as entertainment-type establishments located in designated tourism zones. Hotels operating under the Hotel Act are also permitted to sell alcohol, as are venues hosting national or international events that attract large public gatherings, provided they are approved by the Ministry of Public Health with input from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
The new measures were issued under the authority of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act B.E. 2551 (2008) and based on recommendations from the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee.
Vendors authorised to sell alcohol under the revised guidelines must implement screening protocols to maintain public order, prevent underage drinking, and ensure public safety.
The announcement was signed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and officially dated 7 May 2025.
The move marks a significant shift in alcohol control policy in Thailand, where bans on alcohol sales during religious holidays have been in place for many years.
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