Bangkok, May 13, 2025 — Small-scale alcohol producers across Thailand are celebrating a major policy win following the Cabinet’s approval, in principle, of a draft Ministerial Regulation aimed at easing restrictions on alcohol production. The regulation, proposed by the Excise Department under the Ministry of Finance, is designed to support community liquor producers, expand market opportunities for craft beer and brew pubs, and foster local industry development.
The announcement came at a press briefing at noon, when Deputy Minister of Finance Paophum Rojanasakul confirmed the Cabinet’s green light for the regulation. “This move reflects our commitment to promoting community liquor as a sustainable and competitive industry that can uplift local economies and showcase Thailand’s soft power through traditional knowledge,” he stated.
Key Reforms to Alcohol Production Laws
The proposed regulation introduces a number of progressive changes aimed at lowering barriers for new entrants and simplifying operations for existing producers:
- Nationwide Distribution for Craft Beer and Brew Pubs
Brew pubs and craft beer producers will now be allowed to package draft beer in kegs and sell it off-site, across the country. This change is expected to broaden market access and generate more income for small-scale brewers. - Flexibility for Rural Distilleries
Recognising the geographical limitations faced by rural producers, the new rules will allow small and medium-sized distilleries to operate within 100 meters of public water sources, on the condition that they install certified wastewater treatment systems to prevent environmental harm. - Accelerated Entry for Medium-Scale Producers
The regulation eliminates the requirement for medium-scale producers to operate as small-scale producers for at least one year before scaling up. This opens the door for more agile market entry and improved competitiveness.
Structural Changes to Licensing and Facility Definitions
Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanajan elaborated on four core amendments introduced in the draft regulation, which updates the 2022 ministerial guidelines:
- Streamlined Licensing: Applicants for medium-scale alcohol production licenses no longer need a one-year track record in small-scale production.
- Independent Standards for Medium-Scale Facilities: The regulation separates operational conditions for medium-scale producers from those governing small-scale operations.
- Revised Location Criteria: The 100-meter restriction from public water sources will be lifted for white liquor distilleries, provided they meet strict environmental safeguards.
- Updated Facility Definitions: The term “beer-producing facility for on-site sale” will be replaced by “draft beer-producing facility,” permitting off-site distribution of kegged beer in compliance with standards set by the Excise Department.
Focus on Community Empowerment
The government’s reform places strong emphasis on boosting local economies. The Excise Department is reportedly preparing additional measures to further ease restrictions and enhance support for cooperatives, community enterprises, farmer groups, and other grassroots organisations.
By formalising and legalising broader participation in alcohol production, the regulation is seen as a major step toward democratising the industry, one long dominated by large corporations.
“Community liquor is not just an economic asset; it’s part of our cultural identity,” said Paophum. “We are paving the way for local producers to thrive, innovate, and share their craft both domestically and internationally.”
The draft regulation now moves into its final stages of legal vetting and public feedback before formal enactment.
