thailand lift afternoon

Thailand to Lift Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban Ahead of New Year, Minister Confirms

BANGKOK – Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Zarum announced on Tuesday that the long-standing ban on alcohol sales between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. will be officially lifted in time for the New Year celebrations. The move follows the conclusion of a 15-day public hearing process, allowing the new regulation to be enacted ahead of the year-end festivities.

Committee Approves 2–5 p.m. Alcohol Sales Ahead of New Year

However, the minister clarified that the relaxation will not apply universally. Only registered establishments, including authorized grocery stores, will be permitted to sell alcoholic beverages during the previously restricted afternoon hours. He acknowledged that there had been widespread public misunderstanding regarding the scope of the change.

In addition to the adjusted sales window, regulations regarding on-premise consumption will also see refinement. Drinking at licensed venues will be allowed until 1 a.m., though all alcohol sales must cease by midnight.

Thailand Imposes Stiff Fines on Drinkers in Tightened Alcohol Laws

The decision to revoke the afternoon sales ban, which has been in effect since 1972, was initially approved by the National Alcohol Policy Committee on November 13. The move comes in response to significant public criticism of a newly introduced rule that imposed a 10,000-baht fine on individuals for drinking outside of permitted hours. Authorities have stated that the policy shift aims to stimulate tourism and boost economic activity during key holiday periods, including the upcoming New Year and the Songkran festival in April.

-Thailand News (TN)

Similar Posts

  • Drunk Driver in a BMW Kills 3 After Crashing into a Tuk-Tuk

    BANGKOK – A devastating early-morning crash inside a peaceful residential community in Nonthaburi left three women dead after a drunk driver collided with a local tuk-tuk. Police have pressed multiple criminal charges against the 31-year-old luxury car driver following the fatal incident. The tragedy occurred during the early morning hours in a quiet housing estate […]

  • | |

    Babar Azam explains Pakistan’s defeat against We…

    Pakistan captain Babar Azam admitted his side’s batting collapse was the decisive factor in their 90‑run defeat to West Indies in the opening Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. Chasing 211, Pakistan were bowled out for just 120, handing the hosts a 1‑0 lead in the two‑match series. Speaking after the match, Azam said Pakistan had shown fight over the first three days but failed to deliver with the bat when it mattered. “As a batting unit, we weren’t up to the mark. We kept losing wickets in quick succession, and our batting let us down,” he reflected. He dismissed suggestions that the pitch was to blame, noting that while the surface offered movement with the new ball, it remained playable. “West Indies bowled very well and used the conditions brilliantly. By the fourth day, the ball was keeping low and bouncing unevenly. We weren’t able to build partnerships, and that’s why we lost,” he explained. Azam highlighted the absence of opener Shan Masood, who is sidelined with a fractured finger, as a setback but stressed that other batters must take responsibility. “Yes, Shan’s injury affected us, but when you’re facing the new ball you have to survive the first 20 overs and build partnerships. We couldn’t do that,” he said. Despite the loss, Azam remained optimistic about Pakistan’s chances in the second Test. “We’ll sit together and discuss these things. While the result didn’t go our way, we can certainly address our mistakes. We’ll do our best to correct them and ensure we improve going forward,” he added.

  • | |

    Jennifer Lopez says life ‘keeps getting better?…

    Jennifer Lopez is embracing another year of life with gratitude, confidence, and an uplifting message for her fans. As the global superstar celebrated her 57th birthday on July 24, the singer and actress reflected on her journey, reminding followers that life continues to improve with age as long as people keep believing in themselves and moving forward. (people.com⁠) Lopez marked the special occasion with a heartfelt post on social media, sharing glamorous birthday photos and a message centered on resilience and personal growth. “Life keeps getting better,” she wrote, encouraging fans to embrace every chapter with optimism rather than fear. The On the Floor hitmaker thanked her supporters for their unwavering love over the years, saying their encouragement continues to inspire her both personally and professionally. (people.com⁠) The birthday celebration comes during an eventful year for Lopez, who has remained focused on her career despite recent personal changes. The actress and singer has spent the past several months working on new creative projects while continuing to connect with audiences through music, film, and live performances. Rather than dwelling on challenges, Lopez has repeatedly emphasized the importance of self-love, perseverance, and finding strength through life’s transitions. (people.com⁠) Known for her relentless work ethic, Lopez has built one of the most successful entertainment careers in the world. From her breakthrough role in Selena to chart-topping albums and blockbuster films, she has consistently reinvented herself while remaining one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. Her influence extends beyond entertainment, with successful ventures in fashion, beauty, and business, making her a role model for aspiring artists worldwide. (britannica.com⁠) Fans and fellow celebrities flooded social media with birthday wishes, celebrating not only Lopez’s accomplishments but also her enduring positivity. Many praised her message about aging with confidence, saying it served as an inspiring reminder that personal growth does not stop with time but often becomes even more meaningful. As she begins her 58th year, Jennifer Lopez shows no signs of slowing down. With new projects on the horizon and an optimistic outlook on life, she continues to prove that success is about far more than fame—it’s about resilience, passion, and the willingness to keep evolving. For Lopez, every birthday is more than a milestone. It is an opportunity to reflect, celebrate progress, and inspire others to believe that the best chapters of life may still be ahead. Her latest message resonates with millions who see her not only as a performer but also as someone who continues to embrace change with confidence and hope.

  • | |

    Sohail Afridi denied meeting Imran at Adiala Jail

    RAWALPINDI: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was stopped from meeting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan at Adiala Jail on Thursday. Afridi reached the Medicine Factory checkpoint on Adiala Road with several PTI leaders and lawmakers. Police stopped the delegation from moving towards the prison. The chief minister was accompanied by Mena Khan, Shafi Jan, Ahad Shah, Abdul Salam Afridi and Shahid Khattak. Police had earlier blocked Adiala Road from Gorakhpur towards the jail. Traffic was diverted to alternative routes. Afridi questioned the SHO Saddar Beroni about the restrictions. He also asked what instructions had been issued to the authorities. The chief minister remained at the checkpoint until the scheduled meeting time ended. He and the accompanying PTI leaders were not allowed to meet Imran. After the delegation left, police removed the barriers. Traffic on Adiala Road was restored. Speaking to the media, Afridi announced a protest call if he was not allowed to meet the PTI founder. He said PTI workers would come out across the country at 10pm. He urged them to gather at major intersections while carrying the national and party flags. Afridi also asked workers to stay focused on the party’s planned march towards Islamabad on September 27. He claimed that the PTI planned to bring two million people to Islamabad. He said the number could be even higher. The chief minister said the authorities should allow a meeting with Imran before September 28 if they wanted to reduce political tensions. Afridi also criticised the treatment of Imran and PTI since 2022. He accused the authorities of pushing the country towards instability because of political differences and stubbornness. He further criticised other political parties and questioned their role in the country’s political situation. The latest incident comes amid growing concern within PTI over Imran’s health and access to him. The party has repeatedly demanded that its founder be allowed to meet family members, lawyers and party leaders. Imran has remained incarcerated at Adiala Jail since 2023. His wife, Bushra Bibi, is also imprisoned. The PTI founder has faced several legal cases during his imprisonment. He and Bushra Bibi were sentenced to 17 years in prison in the Toshakhana-II case in December 2025. PTI has also raised concerns over Imran’s eyesight and medical treatment. Earlier this year, doctors from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences examined him at the jail. PIMS later confirmed that he had received an anti-VEGF injection for a condition affecting his right eye. A later medical examination indicated improvement in his eyesight following treatment. Imran’s sisters and PTI supporters have also held regular gatherings outside Adiala Jail on designated meeting days. However, access to the former prime minister has remained restricted in recent months. Afridi’s unsuccessful visit on Thursday is likely to further intensify the political confrontation between PTI and the authorities.

  • | |

    Katie Holmes makes rare comment about boyfriend Ja…

    Katie Holmes has offered a rare glimpse into her personal life by publicly acknowledging her relationship with New York-based artist Jason Bard Yarmosky. Known for keeping her private life away from the spotlight, the actress surprised fans by making one of her first public comments about her boyfriend after the couple recently stepped out together in New York City. (people.com⁠) The Dawson’s Creek alum, who has long maintained a low-profile approach to romance, spoke warmly about Yarmosky while attending a recent event. Although Holmes kept her remarks brief, she described the artist as someone she deeply admires and appreciates. Her comments quickly caught attention because the actress rarely discusses her relationships publicly. (people.com⁠) Holmes and Yarmosky were first linked earlier this year after they were photographed together on several occasions around New York City. The pair later made public appearances at art-related events, fueling speculation that their connection had grown stronger. Despite increased public interest, Holmes has largely remained silent about the relationship, choosing instead to focus on her career and family life. (usmagazine.com⁠) Jason Bard Yarmosky is a contemporary artist known for his emotional and thought-provoking paintings and mixed-media works. Based in New York, he has exhibited his art in galleries across the United States and has earned recognition for exploring themes of identity, family, and human connection. His artistic background appears to align with Holmes’ own passion for creativity and storytelling. (jasonbardyarmosky.com⁠) Holmes has always preferred to keep her personal relationships private, especially after years of intense media attention. Since her highly publicized marriage and divorce from Tom Cruise, the actress has carefully balanced her public career with her private life. In past interviews, she has emphasized the importance of protecting her personal space and maintaining a sense of normalcy for her daughter, Suri Cruise. (people.com⁠) Fans have praised Holmes for finding happiness while staying true to her values. Her recent remarks about Yarmosky, though brief, offered a rare and genuine insight into a relationship that appears to be built on mutual respect and shared interests. As Holmes continues to work on new acting and directing projects, her subtle acknowledgment of Yarmosky suggests that she is comfortable letting the public see a small part of her personal happiness. For admirers of the actress, it was a refreshing moment that highlighted a softer, more personal side of one of Hollywood’s most private stars.

  • | |

    Farooq Sattar calls for more provinces in Pakistan

    Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) senior leader Dr Farooq Sattar has called for the creation of more provinces, saying Pakistan cannot be effectively governed through the existing four provinces or by the influence of a few political families. Speaking after arriving at the party’s Bahadurabad headquarters in Karachi, Sattar said the country needs a more inclusive and participatory federal structure with additional provinces to ensure balanced governance and fair representation. He said the movement for administrative reforms would continue until the establishment of more provinces across the country. According to Sattar, creating new provinces is essential for improving governance, strengthening the federation and addressing regional disparities. The MQM-P leader also praised the country’s leadership for demonstrating resilience during challenging times. He commended Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the nation for showing determination and courage. Sattar reiterated that constitutional and administrative reforms are necessary to build a stronger and more representative Pakistan, adding that decentralisation would help improve public service delivery and promote national unity.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *