The Craft Beer Business Association has submitted a formal petition to the ruling Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party, calling for urgent legislative reforms to remove barriers affecting small-scale brewers in the country.
The delegation, led by association president Natthachai Eungsriwong and secretary-general Praphavee Hemathas, met with BJT deputy leader Siripong Angkasakulkiat to present three proposals bent on unlocking the sector’s economic potential.
Mr Natthachai said the craft beer industry could significantly contribute to Thailand’s grassroots economy, supporting agriculture, tourism and related supply chains.
“We appreciate BJT’s commitment to economic development and support for small entrepreneurs. We believe craft beer has the capacity to drive local growth and generate national revenue,” he said.
The proposals focus on small brewery licensing reform, sales time restrictions and an online alcohol sales ban.
With the licensing reform, the association wants relevant regulations amended to allow small breweries to bottle and distribute off-site, similar to other fermented alcohol products, without burdensome conditions that hinder small producers.
As for sales time restrictions, the association wants the repeal of the nationwide ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm, which it argues negatively impacts tourism and small business operations.
The association also wants the ban on online alcohol sales lifted.