Thailand is considering extending nightlife hours to 4 am in select areas to boost the economy, balancing economic benefits with public safety and regulation compliance in the hospitality sector.
In an innovative move to enhance the country’s economic landscape, Thailand‘s Interior Minister, Anutin Charvirakul, has expressed openness to expanding the areas where entertainment venues are permitted to operate until 4 am. This consideration, aimed at bolstering the economy, was voiced during Anutin’s visit to Khao San Road’s nightlife establishments.
Anutin emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety despite the extended hours, insisting on adherence to strict measures. These include prohibiting alcohol sales to excessively intoxicated customers and enforcing a ban on narcotics, weapons, underage visits, and drunk driving.
The minister highlighted the potential economic benefits of such an extension. “Extended operating hours mean increased monetary circulation, more jobs, and higher income for taxi drivers,” Anutin stated. However, he underscored that any expansion must align with regulations and require cooperation from all parties involved.
In Phuket, Governor Sophon Suwannarat reported successful regulation adherence, with foreign visitors comprising a significant portion of the nightlife crowd. However, Dr. Polathep Vichitkunakorn from the Centre for Alcohol Studies raised concerns, citing studies linking extended alcohol sale hours to increased incidents of harassment and crime. He urged the government to demonstrate that traffic accidents haven’t spiked since the extension.
Currently, about 140 entertainment venues in Bangkok are open until 4 am, primarily in Ratchadaphisek, Silom, and Royal City Avenue. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt clarified that only authorized venues are allowed these extended hours.
The new policy, which kicked off on December 15, encompasses select areas in Bangkok, Phuket, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and registered hotels nationwide. The government allowed venues to operate until 6 am on New Year’s Eve to further boost tourism.
Operators must strictly adhere to the Entertainment Places Act and the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, including measures like blood alcohol level checks and arranging safe transportation for highly intoxicated customers.
Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai, there’s a call for policy reevaluation. Tanit Choomsang of the Chiang Mai Restaurant and Bistro Association pointed out that the extension benefits only a few registered venues, while many unregistered ones face legal challenges. He argued that Chiang Mai’s tourism focus on natural, cultural, and culinary attractions differs from other areas and that the city’s entertainment sector should be given a chance to operate legally.
The move towards extended operating hours in Thailand’s entertainment sector is a complex balance between stimulating economic growth and ensuring public safety and compliance. This ongoing dialogue between government officials and industry stakeholders is crucial for developing a sustainable and inclusive approach to boosting the country’s vibrant hospitality and nightlife sectors.
