The bill also softens rules on advertising to allow the promotion of alcoholic drinks. The law currently bans the display of names or trademarks of alcoholic drinks, or the use of pictures of such products for promotional purposes, making it difficult for small businesses to gain greater visibility.
Thailand is set to ease restrictions on alcohol sales and advertising, stepping up a push to liberalize a drinks market seen as likely to spur tourism and support smaller breweries.
Lawmakers in the 500-member House of Representatives voted on Wednesday to pass an amended alcohol control bill, although the legislation still needs Senate approval. The changes are set to revoke an infamous 1972 military government order that bans sales of alcohol anytime before 11 am and again between 2 to 5 pm.
