Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has approved an extension of opening hours for nightlife venues, such as pubs and bars, until 4 am in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, and Phuket starting from December 15.
After a meeting on an integrated tourism plan, Mr. Srettha and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul issued a joint statement, stating that they had discussed this extension with the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the Royal Thai Police, and the governors of the four provinces.
The initiative is initially being tested in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, and Phuket to boost tourism and is expected to take effect on December 15.
The duration of this trial period will be determined by relevant agencies, and further discussions about changing regulations will take place in the future.
Mr. Srettha explained that this move aims to stimulate the domestic economy and tourism. It will also increase income for businesses in the tourism sector, including restaurants and entertainment venues.
He emphasized that some foreigners have different dining habits than Thais, dining later in the evening around 9 pm to 10 pm. Restricting opening hours to midnight or 2 am might force customers to dine earlier, which could reduce the amount of food they order.
Mr. Srettha also mentioned that the extension of opening hours until 4 am has been assessed as feasible after discussions with security agencies. The Interior Ministry will explore zoning and licensing aspects, and the police will focus on ensuring people’s safety and cracking down on illicit drug activities.
Additionally, the government plans to extend the operating hours of restaurants that operate like entertainment venues from midnight to 2 am. Currently, the law only allows the sale of alcoholic drinks until midnight, with music not permitted after that time.
The Interior Ministry is working with the police to amend ministerial regulations, subject to cabinet approval. Following this, they will propose a law that grants provincial governors the authority to determine the zoning and operating hours of nighttime entertainment venues.
When asked about administrative officials’ authority to inspect such venues after the extended hours, Mr. Anutin stated that he has discussed the matter with the national police chief and the director-general of the Provincial Administration Department, and they plan to establish a special unit to address it in the future.
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SOURCE: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2677849/extended-nightlife-hours-to-start-dec-15
