Thailand is doing a U-turn. There will be no ban on alcohol in the afternoons. 

Since 1972, alcohol sales between 2 PM and 5 PM have been prohibited in most of Thailand shops. 

But on the 8th of November The ban was extended.

From then on, it would encompass the lion's share of all the country's restaurants and bars, albeit with exceptions for hotels and airports. Those who broke the law could expect fines of up to 10,000 baht, equivalent to almost 3,000 Swedish kronor.

But those craving a cold beer after their afternoon nap can relax. The ban is being lifted just days after new restrictions came into effect, reports Bloomberg. 

Suspended for six months

Dock only for six months.

– That should give the authorities enough time to monitor and evaluate the effects of the extended sales hours from health, social, and economic perspectives, Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said on Friday, according to Bangkok News. 

The reversal comes after protests from both the tourism and restaurant industries. The number of tourists travelling to Thailand has slowed during 2025 – and the hope now is that afternoon drinks will help to revive the economy. 

Source: Expressen.se