Thailand’s tourist districts may extend nightlife hours to boost economy

The Interior Ministry announced yesterday that before entertainment venues in key tourist districts can prolong their extended nightlight hours until 4am, public hearings and amendments to some regulations will be necessary. This plan forms part of the government’s attempts to stimulate the economy in the upcoming high tourist season, a measure championed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the ministry is currently searching for the quickest and most practical means of executing the nightlife hours policy by December 15. The extended opening hours will apply to tourist districts including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Chon Buri.

However, Charnvirakul noted that the regulations concerning alcohol sales times may need to be revised to coincide with the extended nightlife hours in tourist districts. Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of conducting a public hearing in target areas to gather the views of all interested parties before the government can finalise the extension of nightlife hours in tourist districts.

At present, the alcohol control law permits Type 1 night entertainment businesses to continue selling alcohol until midnight. Restaurants without live music are also allowed to serve alcohol as long as they are open.

Charnvirakul acknowledged the potential challenges of this new policy.

“The ministry was studying whether it would be possible to bypass the amendment procedures and other relevant regulations, which might take a long time to accomplish, meaning the December 15 deadline would likely be missed.”

He also candidly recognised the mixed reception to the nightlife hours policy, noting its potential benefits and drawbacks, along with its varied supporters and opponents.

Meanwhile, Sanga Ruengwattanakul, president of the Khao San Road Businesses Association, expressed concerns over the practicality of extending nightlife hours without also allowing for extended alcohol sales. His argument was based on the observation that foreign tourists at nightclubs tend to order individual drinks successively, unlike Thai patrons who prefer to purchase a bottle of spirits to last until closing time.

In opposition to the proposed policy, Pheu Thai Party list-MP Chalerm Ubumrung contended that foreign tourists visit Thailand for its natural beauty, historic sites, and food, not for nightlife, which they can experience in their own countries, reported Bangkok Post.

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