Bangkok – Anyone who grabs a beer at the wrong time in the holiday paradise of Thailand now risks a hefty fine: up to 10,000 baht (around 250 euros) for tourists – just because they drank at the wrong time!
Since November 8, 2025, alcohol will only be allowed in the holiday paradise at certain times. For tourists, this means: pay attention to the clock – or forget about it.
According to the new “Alcoholic Beverage Control Law (No. 2) BE 2568 (2025), alcohol consumption is only permitted between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm. and between 5 p.m. and midnight. Anyone drinking outside these times – whether on the beach or on the street – will have to pay. Drinking is also completely prohibited at train stations and trains.
Hotels, international departure halls and licensed bars and clubs are excluded from this new era. Serving can continue there – even in the middle of the night.
Alcohol advertising is also prohibited
In addition to the ban on drinking, Thailand has also tightened advertising rules: even social media posts with visible alcohol logos can be considered illegal advertising. This can have expensive consequences for restaurant owners and establishments: fines of up to 500,000 baht (around 12,500 euros) – plus daily fines of up to 50,000 baht for as long as the violation continues.
The government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisi justified the new law on the grounds of better road safety, better health protection, and the aim of curbing excessive drinking in public places.
The official announcement refers to “contemporary sanctions”. The law was published in the Royal Gazette on 9 September and is now legally binding.
Alcoholic cocktails are still permitted in licensed bars outside of curfew
Gastronomy is sounding the alarm
There has been a lot of criticism from the industry. Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, chairman of the Thai Restaurant Business Association, warned: “This law will have a major impact on the tourism and restaurant industries.” Prapawee Hemathas of the Craft Beer Trade Association also sounded the alarm. “Many small businesses will struggle to survive.” Restaurant owners expect huge losses in sales, especially in tourist areas such as Khaosan Road in Bangkok.
The foreign ministry warned tourists
The United Kingdom, Australia and Canada have now also warned their citizens. Anyone who drinks outside the permitted hours is committing a criminal offense – this also applies to tourists. A sip of beer on the way to the temple? It’s better to just leave it alone. Public places like parks or highways are no longer alcohol-free zones – they are risky zones for your wallet. However, there is still no alcohol warning on the German Foreign Ministry website
The police must increase their inspections
According to the government, local police departments can immediately issue warnings or reports. Anyone who breaks the law multiple times could even face a short prison sentence. Control is expected to increase significantly, especially in major cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Pattaya.
Holiday hotels are exempt from the new law. Drinks by the pool are allowed there
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is trying to calm the public. An exception was made on purpose. “The exceptions for hotels, airports and licensed entertainment venues are intended to ensure that tourism is not unduly impacted,” a spokesperson said. But according to a survey conducted by the restaurant association, more than 70 percent of establishments expect a decline in evening business.
