Pattaya Night-Business Entrepreneurs Association has petitioned the Senate to review the new Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, citing the law’s harmful impact on tourism and local livelihoods.
The petition was submitted by the association’s chairwoman, Lisa Hamilton, to parliament on Monday. It was received by the spokesman of the Senate Affairs Committee, Pisit Apiwattanapong, and Senator Prathum Wongsawat.
The petition focuses on Section 32 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which prohibits the sale of alcohol by unlicensed vendors. Under the new rule, tourists who drink alcohol on the beach risk being fined or arrested. Ms Lisa said the rule risks damaging Thailand’s image as a tourist destination, especially ahead of the high season.
According to Ms Lisa, the act opens opportunities for corrupt officials to demand bribes from businesses or tourists caught drinking in prohibited areas.
“We urge the government to reconsider before [the rule] ruins the country’s reputation,” she said.