Alcohol Control Network warns most pubs, bars still banned from selling alcohol on Buddhist days
Alcohol Control Network warns that most pubs and bars are still prohibited from selling alcohol on Buddhist days, with penalties for violations.
The Alcohol Control Network issued a warning on Wednesday that the latest directive from the Prime Minister’s Office still prohibits most pubs, bars, and entertainment venues nationwide from selling alcoholic drinks on national Buddhist religious days.
Misunderstanding of the Directive Could Lead to Legal Consequences
Teerapat Khahawong, a leader of the Alcohol Control Network, cautioned that any misunderstanding of the directive could lead to significant penalties for pub and bar operators. He emphasized that violating the ban on selling alcohol on Buddhist days could result in hefty fines or jail time for those in breach.
Teerapat’s comments followed the publication of the directive in the Royal Gazette on Wednesday, which clarified the restrictions.
Alcohol Sale Prohibited on Major Buddhist Holidays
The directive explicitly prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages on Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, Buddhist Lent Day, and End of Buddhist Lent Day. However, there are specific exceptions listed for certain cases:
- Alcohol may be sold in passenger buildings at international airports.
- Alcohol may be sold in entertainment venues registered under entertainment place laws.
- Alcohol may be sold in entertainment venues in tourist destinations, provided announcements from the Public Health Ministry are issued under the advice of the interior minister.
- Alcohol may be sold in hotels registered under the Hotel Law.
- Alcohol may be sold at venues hosting national or international events, as listed by the Public Health Ministry, with advice from the Tourism and Sports Minister.
Penalties for Violating Alcohol Sales Ban
Teerapat emphasized that the directive clearly states that, except for the outlined exceptions, selling alcoholic beverages on Buddhist days remains prohibited. He pointed out that businesses failing to comply could face severe penalties, including a fine of up to 10,000 baht, a prison sentence of up to six months, or both.
Only a Small Percentage of Businesses Can Legally Sell Alcohol on Buddhist Days
Teerapat highlighted that only 3% of the 580,000 registered alcohol-selling venues in Thailand are allowed to sell alcohol on Buddhist days. These exceptions include locations at international airports and about 15,000 registered hotels.
He also noted that the third and fifth categories of exceptions (for entertainment venues and national events) require specific announcements from the Public Health Ministry before alcohol sales can be permitted.
