A new law taking effect on Nov. 8 prohibits drinking at licensed premises and commercial venues between midnight and 11 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Foreign tourists flooded social media with criticism of the rule, calling it “unreasonable and restrictive” and some said they would avoid Thailand in favor of other nearby destinations with more relaxed alcohol rules, Bangkok Post reported.
A netizen said: “Thailand says it needs more tourists, but this new policy will have the opposite effect — it gives tourists plenty of reason to choose other Southeast Asian countries first.”
Another said: “Once tourists learn they can’t have a cold beer on the beach at the hottest time of the day, they won’t even consider Thailand.”
A third wrote: “Tourists are already flocking to Vietnam.”
The new law comes at a time when Thailand, whose economy relies heavily on tourism, has received only 26.2 million tourists this year, a 7.25% year-on-year decline, Reuters reported.
Industry insiders warned the policy could deepen the downturn, even push the tourism sector to the brink of a crisis.
Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, chairman of the Thai Restaurant Business Association, criticized the new move, according to Nation Thailand newspaper.
“It’s unclear what purpose this law serves. Those who signed it may not realize how much damage it will cause to the tourism and service economy.”
Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khaosan Business Association, warned that the law’s unclear provisions could deter visitors during the peak tourism season, Nation Thailand newspaper reported.
Insiders said the new policy risks undermining Thailand’s tourism competitiveness, especially in nightlife districts and among European tourists who usually drink until late night.
Several countries have already issued travel advisories warning their citizens about the 10,000-baht fine for drinking after midnight.
Nightlife and restaurant associations said they are preparing a joint petition to send to Prime Minister Anutin Charnviraku seeking revision of the law.
Business leaders said clearer rules and targeted amendments are needed to protect licensed venues and preserve Thailand’s competitiveness in tourism and nightlife.