Alcohol Board Reports: 2-Month Alcohol Sales Time Relaxation Shows No Significant Impact, Monitoring Continues for 4 More Months

On February 3, 2026, Pattana Prom-Phat, Minister of Public Health, disclosed during the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee meeting that initial studies on road accidents and driver intoxication since December 3, 2025, show no significant negative impacts from allowing alcohol sales between 2:00-5:00 PM. The data collection is part of a 180-day trial period, with initial findings suggesting a slight reduction in incidents. Community alcohol checks during the New Year period found significant alcohol consumption, primarily involving motorcycle transportation, though no accidents were reported due to community screening measures. The committee also discussed potential 24-hour alcohol sales in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) special development zone, requesting more detailed analysis from the Department of Disease Control before making a final decision. A draft regulation for assessing initial intoxication is currently being developed under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act.