In Thailand, the sale of alcohol is restricted daily between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. This regulation was introduced in 1972 by the then-military government led by Thanom Kittikachorn to prevent alcohol consumption during working hours among government officials. Despite significant societal changes since then, this rule remains in place today.

For many, especially those living in rural areas, these restrictions create practical challenges. Having to travel long distances, sometimes up to 60 kilometers, to shop while being unable to buy a case of beer due to time limitations can be frustrating. This issue affects not only locals but also tourists who may be unaware of these rules and struggle to plan their purchases accordingly.

Many question the effectiveness of these time restrictions in reducing alcohol consumption. Despite the ban between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, alcohol remains easily accessible for the rest of the day, making it doubtful whether these three hours have any significant impact on public health. Moreover, such restrictions can lead to unintended consequences, such as people buying and consuming more alcohol before or after the restricted hours.

A more effective strategy could focus on education and awareness regarding alcohol’s effects. By informing the public about the risks of excessive alcohol consumption and promoting responsible drinking, better results could be achieved than through time-based sales bans. This approach would not only respect individual freedoms but also address the core issue in a more direct and meaningful way.

Recently, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra acknowledged these concerns and ordered a review of the 53-year-old restriction. She has instructed relevant authorities to study how both the afternoon sales ban and the alcohol ban on Buddhist holidays impact tourism and the economy.

In conclusion, it appears that the current restrictions do not effectively address the problems they were intended to solve. Reevaluating these regulations, alongside increased efforts in education and public awareness, may be the best path forward to tackling alcohol-related issues in Thailand more effectively and fairly.