Picture courtesy of The Nation
Public criticism has intensified following the government alcohol control committee's decision to extend alcohol sales and drinking hours, with campaigners warning that the move lacks legitimacy and poses public health risks. Concerns have been raised that the decision was made without a full quorum and may undermine efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm. Critics argue that despite being legal under the new Alcohol Control Act, the decision could have severe consequences for communities.
The issue follows recent government efforts to relax alcohol regulations, including extending bar closing times and widening sales windows for beer and spirits. Supporters of the policy have cited economic benefits, including claims of 600 billion baht in spending, but opponents argue the figures do not align with current accident data. A reported 10% rise in drunk-driving incidents has further fuelled doubts over the policy's justification.
Chuwit Chantaros, coordinator of the Campaign for Protection from the Dangers of Alcohol Drinking, said the public network would continue to monitor the matter closely, calling it a life-and-death issue. He warned that while some drinkers might welcome the change, non-drinkers could form a larger bloc of opposition in upcoming elections. Chuwit also questioned whether the committee's decision could be challenged in court due to concerns over quorum and procedural legitimacy.
He stated that although the Alcohol Control Act permits officials to make such decisions, lawmakers must listen to all parties and follow due process rather than rushing measures through. Chuwit added that any extension of drinking hours past midnight should be confined to designated entertainment zones with proper oversight. He maintained that the government could ultimately be held accountable for any rise in alcohol-related accidents.
Teera Watcharapranee, Director of the Stop Drink Network Thailand (SDN), criticised the proposed extension of late-night alcohol hours to 4am, arguing that the decision prioritises economic interests over health. He said any review during the government's six-month trial must rely on scientific data and research rather than economic projections. SDN plans to organise public forums across communities to assess local sentiment and increase awareness of the policy's implications.
Teera said he opposed lifting alcohol-sale restrictions nationwide, insisting that any relaxation should be limited to designated zones or 'sandbox' areas. He also urged authorities to clarify enforcement procedures and confirm whether sufficient officers would be deployed for inspections. Questions remain over whether the extended hours apply to venues such as grocery shops, highlighting the need for clear criteria and venue classifications.
Teera noted that alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen and said the move contradicts Thailand's ambition to become a wellness hub, reported The Nation. Citing World Health Organisation findings from recent years, he reiterated that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption and dismissed the belief that light drinking can be beneficial.
Chuwit Chantaros, coordinator of the Campaign for Protection from the Dangers of Alcohol Drinking
Key Takeaways
• Campaigners argue the decision to extend alcohol sales and drinking hours lacks legitimacy and increases public health risks.
• Experts warn that rising drunk-driving incidents and unclear enforcement could worsen community safety.
• A six-month government review is planned, with calls for scientific assessment and stricter zoning.
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