Thailand – May 11, 2025 – The Stop Drink Network (SDN), a prominent Thai temperance group, has issued a stern warning to pubs, bars, and restaurants in tourist-heavy areas, urging them to refrain from selling alcoholic beverages during five major Buddhist holidays, including today’s Visakha Bucha Day. The group claims that the Thai government has not yet enacted a firm organic law with specific details to permit such sales, despite the Royal Gazette order changing the regulations just before the past weekend.
The warning comes amid confusion sparked by a government proposal earlier this year to allow limited alcohol sales on Buddhist holidays—Makha Bucha (February 12), Visakha Bucha (May 11), Asalha Bucha (July 10), the start of Buddhist Lent (July 11), and the end of Buddhist Lent (October 7)—in designated tourist zones, such as hotels, entertainment venues, and international airports.
The proposal, approved by the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee in March, was intended to cater to international visitors during Thailand’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign.
However, SDN clarified that, according to them, that the measure remains in legal limbo technically despite the recent Royal Gazette Order and stated that a proper, detailed law was needed and not just change to regulations.
TPN Media notes this is the statement of this particular group, which is against alcohol in general, and not a law enforcement agency or the central government and regardless of their statements local officials in tourist zones did tell many entertainment businesses that they could operate as normal.
“Businesses in tourist areas must exercise caution,” said Theera Watcharapranee, SDN Manager. “The law prohibiting alcohol sales on these holidays is still technically in effect. Selling alcohol now could lead to fines or legal consequences.” The SDN’s statement follows a public opinion survey conducted by then, which claimed that 61% of Thais oppose lifting the alcohol ban on Buddhist holidays, which we reported here. SDN has consistently been against relaxing measures and laws on alcohol, even in tourism related areas.
The confusion has left many business owners in tourist hotspots like Pattaya, Phuket, and Bangkok’s Nana Plaza uncertain about their operations but many opened regardless after conferring with local officials.
People’s Party MP Thaophipop Limjittrakarn recently called for a complete repeal of Thailand’s alcohol control laws on religious holidays, as we covered here, arguing that the partial liberalization creates ambiguity exactly like the current situation and confusion, particularly for smaller businesses like local restaurants and convenience stores, which remain barred from selling alcohol on these days. “The exemptions only apply to specific venues like licensed entertainment establishments and tourist zones. Most shops are still restricted,” he said.
Indeed, many reports of confusion from tourists in Pattaya surfaced today as bars were able to sell, but convenience stores denied sales and some restaurants sold while others did not. Tourist comments on social media, especially from those who don’t often follow the news, expressed widespread confusion over what the rules were. Additionally, some parts of Banglamung, due to elections, couldn’t sell alcohol but central Pattaya could, adding to the confusion.
The ongoing debate reflects a broader tension between preserving Thailand’s Buddhist traditions and supporting its tourism-driven economy. Critics of the ban, including the Thai Restaurant Association, argue that restrictions, including the daily 2–5 PM alcohol sales prohibition, diminish the experience for tourists unaware of these rules.Conversely, SDN and other advocates stress that the ban aligns with Buddhist principles, particularly the Fifth Precept discouraging intoxicants, and helps curb impulsive alcohol consumption.
Business owners and tourists alike are urged to stay informed as the government navigates this complex issue. With the next religious holidays coming in early July, everyone, regardless of where they stand on the issue, is hoping for more clarity.
Photos: Bali Hai Pier and Pattaya sign area, Adam Judd for TPN Media.
