Thailand imposes alcohol bans during election periods to combat corruption and “vote buying” practices, significantly impacting the tourism industry.
Alcohol Ban During Elections
According to Thai election law, the sale, purchase, and distribution of alcohol is prohibited during two 24-hour election periods. The restrictions already applied on January 31 during early voting. The next will begin on Saturday, February 7 at 6 PM local time and continue until Sunday evening.
Authorities explain that the prohibition is intended to prevent electoral corruption and the practice of “votes for drinks.” They argue that the prohibition promotes election transparency. The regulations have been in effect in Thailand for years.
Tourism Industry: Turnover Halves
Bar and restaurant owners emphasize that during election weekends, the number of customers drops by as much as 50%. The problem particularly affects cities like Bangkok, Phuket, as well as other popular resorts where tourists are unaware of local restrictions.
Thailand is still trying to rebuild tourism after the pandemic. Last year, the number of foreign visitors fell by over 7%, partly due to border tensions with Cambodia.
High Stakes Voting
Approximately 53 million citizens are eligible to vote. They will elect 500 members of the House of Representatives and participate in a referendum on the possibility of changing the constitution imposed by the military after the 2014 coup.
Thailand has been struggling with political instability for years – in three years, the country had three prime ministers. The progressive Move Forward Party is the favorite in polls, though analysts remind that in the past, election victories have been blocked by the Senate and the Constitutional Court.
