Thailand Relaxes Regulations to Boost Local Alcohol Industry
BANGKOK — On May 13, 2025, the Thai Cabinet approved a draft regulation that will ease restrictions on alcohol production, aiming to support small-scale brewers and local distilleries. The move, proposed by the Excise Department under the Ministry of Finance, is intended to reduce entry barriers and encourage growth in Thailand’s community-based alcohol sector.
The draft ministerial regulation will, for the first time, allow brewpubs, draft beer producers, and craft beer manufacturers to distribute their products for sale outside their production facilities. This policy shift is seen as a boost for small and independent brewers looking to expand beyond local markets and build sustainable businesses.
In addition, the ordinance addresses longstanding logistical challenges for rural distillers, particularly those located far from established water sources. Under the revised guidelines, small and medium-sized distilleries can now operate within 100 meters of public water sources, provided they use effective wastewater treatment systems to minimize environmental impact.
The updated framework also includes a key amendment for entrepreneurs. Qualified producers may now establish medium-sized distilleries without the previously required one-year period operating as a small business. This provision is expected to enhance competitiveness and accelerate the scaling of local alcohol ventures.
The broader changes reflect a more flexible approach to alcohol policy by the Thai government, which has recently relaxed other restrictions in a bid to stimulate economic and tourism development. Among these is a new exemption allowing the sale of alcohol at five types of venues—international airports, entertainment venues, tourism-related establishments, hotels, and event venues—during major Buddhist religious holidays.
While it is too early to assess the full impact of the revised holiday sales policy, officials argue that formalizing and regulating sales is a more effective approach than prohibition, which often drives transactions underground. The Minister of Tourism and Sports has emphasized the need for clear zoning, age restrictions, and awareness among foreign visitors, who may not be familiar with religious observance dates.
The regulatory update comes as part of a broader government strategy to boost local incomes, support traditional industries, and promote Thai soft power through craft production.
