Sorrathap Rojpojchanaratch (Steve), President of the Restaurant Business Association, sent an open letter to the Prime Minister regarding the government’s policy to stimulate the economy and promote tourism. The association argues that the alcohol sales ban from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., imposed by the military government in 1972, is outdated and significantly hinders the restaurant industry.
It is already struggling due to the current economic downturn, characterized by weakened purchasing power among Thais, a 50% increase in fresh produce and ingredient costs, high electricity costs and a significant decline in tourism.
In addition to lifting the alcohol sales ban, the association is also calling on the government to help street food vendors and SME restaurants.
Other measures requested for consideration include reducing property taxes for restaurant businesses, as they already face numerous taxes and the progressive property tax rates have become a significant burden.
They call for the government to implement measures to stimulate customer spending by allowing individuals to keep tax invoices for tax deductions up to 20,000 baht, and companies to deduct expenses up to 100,000 baht and providing a 2,000-baht cash subsidy per person for three months through the Pao Tang app, specifically for food purchases from street vendors to SMEs.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is willing to consider restaurant business proposal to amend law prohibiting alcohol sales from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., acknowledging the challenges faced by the restaurant industry, recognizing the need to consider the broader economic picture.
While expenses are rising, the government is pushing tourism to boost income for restaurant operators. Regarding afternoon alcohol sales, he would take the matter into consideration. (TNA)
