The bill, which includes 44 sections, passed its second and third readings on Monday (Aug 4) with 104 votes in favour out of 119.
It was approved overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives in March, reports the Bangkok Post.
Although approved without changes from the drafting committee, 10 sections ‒ including Sections 10, 21, 22 and 32 ‒ were flagged for potential amendments and further comment in a report by the committee.
Senator Pornchai Witayalerdpan opposed a provision allowing alcohol business operators or stakeholders to join the Alcohol Control Board. He argued that their inclusion would pose a conflict of interest, potentially enabling the industry to influence regulations that should remain impartial under the principles of good governance and public law.
Senator Noraset Pratchayakorn stressed that amendments should strike a balance between economic opportunity and safeguarding public health, particularly for young people.
He raised concerns over Section 22, which would allow alcohol sales through vending machines.
Chanin Rungtanakiat, a Pheu Thai list-MP and campaigner for reform of the alcohol laws, welcomed the Senate’s approval via a Facebook post, highlighting the bill as the result of years of effort and collaboration.
He said the new law could open opportunities for community-based alcohol producers.
The Craft Beer Trade Association (Thailand) also praised the bill on its Facebook page and provided the public with simplified explanations of key changes to Article 32, specifically regarding advertising.
Under the current Article 32, advertising alcoholic beverages is prohibited if it exaggerates benefits or encourages consumption. Images of products or packaging are also restricted.
The amended bill introduces several new sub-articles:
- Article 32/1 allows informative or educational content about alcoholic beverages;
- 32/2 prohibits celebrity promotion of alcohol consumption unless it is for academic purposes in a limited setting;
- 32/3 makes indirect promotion illegal;
- 32/4 forbids sponsorship of public or social events that indirectly promote alcohol, and
- 32/5 prohibits the publication of promotional content.
RECENT CHANGES
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) last month issued a public announcement clarifying “Alcohol Sales and Consumption Rules Updated in Thailand – What Tourists Need to Know”.
The announcement clarified new regulations affecting alcohol sales in hotels, airports and railway premises that came into effect on June 27, 2025.
In its ‘Key Updates for Travellers’, the TAT explained that Thailand continues to regulate alcohol sales hours nationwide. In general, alcohol may only be sold between 11am-2pm and 5pm to midnight.
However, under a new regulation issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, certain venues are now exempt from these time restrictions.
- Alcohol may be sold outside these hours in the following locations:
- Hotels, as defined under Thailand’s Hotel Act
- International airport terminals serving outbound international flights
- Licensed entertainment venues, in accordance with service establishment laws
“This marks a change from the 2015 regulation, which allowed exceptions only for airport terminals and entertainment venues,” the TAT noted.
A second announcement clarified alcohol policies within Thailand’s railway system. Alcohol remains strictly prohibited on trains and in railway stations, including purchase, possession and consumption. Violations may lead to fines or other legal consequences under transport and alcohol control laws, the TAT warned.
The only exception applied to Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lamphong), specifically within a designated event area inside the station’s air-conditioned main hall. Alcohol may be served there only during government-approved events. These events must receive prior authorisation from the Ministry of Public Health and include strict screening, safety and age-restriction measures.
Outside these designated events and spaces, alcohol is not permitted on railway property, the TAT repeated.
“Both announcements, effective from 27 June 2025, were issued under the authority of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act B.E. 2551 (2008) and reflect Thailand’s efforts to adapt its laws to real-world settings while upholding safety and social responsibility,” the TAT said.
Tourists are reminded that outside of the listed exceptions, drinking or purchasing alcohol during restricted hours or in prohibited areas remains illegal. Businesses in violation may be fined or shut down, and individuals could face legal consequences.
Travellers were also strongly advised not to drive under the influence of alcohol. DUI laws in Thailand are strictly enforced, with penalties that may include arrest, fines or even deportation in serious cases, the TAT explained.
Public transport, rideshares and taxis are widely available and recommended when consuming alcohol.
“For a safe and enjoyable visit, please follow local laws and check with your accommodation or event organisers if you’re unsure where and when alcohol may be consumed,” the TAT advised.