National —
On November 19th, 2024, Thailand’s Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsuthin, dismissed proposals for 24-hour alcohol sales in hotels and postponed decisions on serving alcohol on trains, citing safety and legal concerns.
During a meeting of the Alcohol Control Committee on November 18th, two major proposals were discussed. The first, from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), sought permission to sell alcohol in first-class sleeper cars, dining cars, and private carriages.
While the committee acknowledged the potential benefits for tourism, it deferred approval pending detailed safety measures and data. Somsak noted the need for clear regulations to ensure passenger safety, especially in private carriages.
The second proposal, from the Thai Hotels Association, aimed to allow round-the-clock alcohol sales in hotels. The committee rejected this, referencing the 2004 Hotel Act, which already governs alcohol policies.
However, it approved a measure to formalize rules permitting alcohol consumption in hotel rooms, specifying that guests may access alcohol from in-room fridges.
Somsak also outlined broader alcohol control initiatives, including empowering provincial committees to implement stricter measures under the 2008 Alcohol Control Act. This includes enforcing restrictions on sale locations, times, buyer age limits, and advertising, alongside public campaigns promoting abstinence during key periods like Buddhist Lent and New Year.
When Thai national media asked about concerns over proposed amendments to the Alcohol Control Act, which increase representation from the alcohol industry, Somsak stressed the need for inclusive deliberations.
He also dismissed allegations that the changes normalize alcohol consumption, stating that all public feedback will be considered. Discussions will continue after parliament reconvenes in mid-December, according to Thai national media.
