Bangkok: The Senate’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee is gearing up to present a comprehensive report during the upcoming Senate meeting scheduled for August 4-5. The report will address key aspects of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, with a focus on necessary revisions and the inclusion of critical definitions.
According to Thai News Agency, spokesperson Mr. Palawat Tansiri, representing the Senate’s special committee tasked with reviewing the draft of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, highlighted the draft bill’s significant areas requiring amendments. These include definitions related to alcoholic beverages, marketing communications, and individuals facing alcohol consumption issues. Additionally, the draft proposes changes to the duties and powers of the National Alcoholic Beverage Policy Committee, both in Bangkok and the provinces. A notable inclusion is the section on advertising, which restricts alcoholic beverage advertisements to informational, educational, or public awareness purposes. The proposed amendments also address treatment and rehabilitation provisions for those addicted to alcohol and empower officials to act against violations, including inspecting premises and revoking licenses if necessary.
Mr. Palawat emphasized that the committee is meticulously reviewing each article proposed for amendment, thoroughly considering input from various stakeholders to ensure the enacted law aligns with its intended purpose. The committee is set to reconvene on May 6, aiming to finalize its deliberations by July and present its findings to the Senate meeting in early August.
In the interim, Mr. Palawat cautioned business operators engaged in advertising alcoholic beverages to adhere to existing regulations, as the current law remains in effect while the new draft is under consideration.