In a move to liberalize the alcohol industry and boost tourism and local entrepreneurship, the Thai government recently enacted two key regulatory changes affecting alcohol production and sales.
On 13 May 2025, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Ministerial Regulation on Alcohol Beverage Production (2022), proposed by the Excise Department. The changes aim to reduce entry barriers for small- and medium-sized producers (SMEs) and promote the use of domestic agricultural products.
Key Amendments:
- Allowing nationwide keg distribution by craft beer producers and brew pubs.
- Introducing the new category of “fresh beer breweries.”
- Simplifying licensing for medium-sized producers.
- Removing the THB 10 million minimum investment requirement.
- Permitting distilleries near public water sources, subject to environmental safeguards.
- Allowing direct entry into medium-scale production without prior small-scale operation.
The proposed amendments were welcomed by industry stakeholders as a step forward in enhancing consumer choice and supporting local businesses. However, challenges such as high excise taxes, advertising restrictions, and limited market access remain. Critics have called for further reforms, including permitting bottling and introducing unified licenses for all alcohol types.
Separately, a new law on alcohol sales venues took effect following its publication in the Royal Gazette, expanding the number of locations where alcohol can be sold. While the general ban on alcohol sales during Buddhist holidays remains, exceptions now apply to:
- International airports (outbound terminals)
- Licensed restaurants, pubs, and entertainment venues
- Tourist attractions in designated zones
- Legally registered hotels
- Venues hosting major national or international events
The Tourism and Sports Minister signaled plans to include grocery stores in tourist zones as permitted venues in the future. He also emphasized the importance of regulated sales over outright bans, noting that clear oversight is more practical and enforceable.
Together, these developments mark significant progress in modernizing Thailand’s alcohol laws, with the dual aims of stimulating economic activity and supporting a more competitive, diverse market.