Thailand's Alcohol Ban: Origins, Relaxation, & New Confusion

• Thailand has a decades-old ban on alcohol sales between 2 PM and 5 PM.
• The 1972 military-era rule aimed to boost work productivity and maintain social order.
• In November 2025, the government partially relaxed the ban for licensed hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues due to tourism pressure.
• Despite the relaxation, individuals caught drinking alcohol between 2 PM and 5 PM can still face fines, leading to confusion.

Why It Matters: Thailand's alcohol rules show how governments balance public order with tourism economy.