Thailand relaxes alcohol restrictions on Buddhist holidays to attract tourists
In a move to increase its appeal to international visitors, Thailand plans to permit limited alcohol sales on Buddhist holidays, challenging traditional norms in its predominantly Buddhist society. The post Thailand relaxes alcohol restrictions on Buddhist holidays to attract tourists appeared first on The Drinks Business.
In a move to increase its appeal to international visitors, Thailand plans to permit limited alcohol sales on Buddhist holidays, challenging traditional norms in its predominantly Buddhist society.
Thailand, renowned for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, is set to relax its stringent alcohol regulations by allowing limited sales on Buddhist holidays. The initiative aims to enhance the country's allure to foreign tourists, even as it navigates the sensitivities of its Buddhist heritage.
Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced that the government intends to permit alcohol sales within legally designated zones, potentially as early as 11 May. The proposal is currently undergoing a 15-day public consultation period, after which it will require approval from both the health minister and the prime minister.
The policy shift is part of a broader strategy to invigorate Thailand's tourism sector, which has faced economic challenges in recent years. Notably, the government reduced prohibitive alcohol taxes, effective from 1 March 2024, to make the market more accessible and competitive. The tax overhaul included eliminating a 54% import duty and reducing excise taxes, aiming to promote tourism and address under-declaration issues among importers.
Thailand, renowned for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, is set to relax its stringent alcohol regulations by allowing limited sales on Buddhist holidays. The initiative aims to enhance the country's allure to foreign tourists, even as it navigates the sensitivities of its Buddhist heritage.
Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced that the government intends to permit alcohol sales within legally designated zones, potentially as early as 11 May. The proposal is currently undergoing a 15-day public consultation period, after which it will require approval from both the health minister and the prime minister.
The policy shift is part of a broader strategy to invigorate Thailand's tourism sector, which has faced economic challenges in recent years. Notably, the government reduced prohibitive alcohol taxes, effective from 1 March 2024, to make the market more accessible and competitive. The tax overhaul included eliminating a 54% import duty and reducing excise taxes, aiming to promote tourism and address under-declaration issues among importers.
