Spirits high: Thai nightlife gets a boost with potential two-hour extension for venues

Thai nightlife enthusiasts have a reason to raise a glass in celebration as the Ministry of Interior has rung the bell to a two-hour extension for entertainment venues. Previously closing at 2am, these nightspots can now keep their doors open until 4am.

The decision was announced by Traisulee Traisornkul, the Secretary-General of the Ministry, yesterday, October 25. The move is seen as a strategy to energise the domestic economy as the country steps into the high season.

Traisulee elaborated that the two-hour extension for Thai nightlife enthusiasts is aimed at boosting tourism and increasing spending. One of the key points from the announcement is that any region with tourism potential can request an extension. However, they need to meet certain conditions specified by the Ministry of Interior. These conditions are yet to be disclosed.

The ministry has chosen to adopt a non-discriminatory approach by not selecting the areas themselves for the extension, said Traisulee.

“If any area or province is ready and able to comply with the conditions set by the Ministry of Interior, they can submit a request through the ministry. The prime minister will then announce the approved areas based on their readiness.”

However, the specifics of these conditions have not been made public yet.

Cabinet meeting

This decision is due for a final review at the next Cabinet meeting. Once it receives the green light, the Minister of Interior will endorse the initiative. The final stage will see the extension published in the Royal Gazette, said Traisulee.

“The ministry did not want to pick the areas themselves to avoid claims of discrimination.”

This conveys the Ministry’s intent to maintain fairness and impartiality in its decision-making process, ensuring that every region has a fair chance of benefiting from the extended operational hours.

Traisulee’s announcement has sparked anticipation among nightlife venue operators and patrons in areas with high tourism potential. The two-hour extension is expected to bring a considerable boost to the economy, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, reported Bangkok Post.

With the high season around the corner, the extension could significantly contribute to the revival of the tourism industry in Thailand. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader aim of attracting more tourists and reviving its economy after the setbacks caused by the global pandemic.

Although the specific conditions for the extension are yet to be released, the announcement has created a sense of optimism among venue operators, who are hopeful of meeting the requirements set by the Ministry of Interior.

Economy boost

With this move, Thailand joins a list of countries that have extended operating hours for nightlife venues, recognising the significant contribution these establishments make to the economy. The country’s nightlife scene, known for its vibrancy and diversity, is a major draw for tourists from around the world.

While the extension is a step forward, it is important to remember that the final approval is yet to be given. The decision will undergo a final review at the next Cabinet meeting, and if approved, will be endorsed by the Minister of Interior before being published in the Royal Gazette.

Until then, nightlife venue operators and enthusiasts can only wait and hope for a positive outcome. The extension, if implemented, will not only create a more vibrant nightlife scene but also contribute significantly to the revival of Thailand’s economy.

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