The government may soon end the afternoon ban on alcohol sales to boost tourism.

Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew will ask the government to get rid of the rule prohibiting the sale of alcohol between 2pm and 5pm.

A decision is expected to be reached at the next meeting on Feb 15.

And even though the proposal appears consistent with the government's tourism promotion policy, stricter measures to protect the public, especially minors, from the possible dangers of cancelling the ban will need to be implemented, a source said.

The cancellation may be rushed so the new rule can start by early April, in time for the annual Songkran festival, said the source.

Last Thursday, the Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association (Tabba) said a new regulation by the Ministry of Interior to allow entertainment businesses in Bangkok, Phuket and Chon Buri to extend opening hours until 4am, which took effect on Dec 15, had yet to fully benefit these businesses due to the afternoon ban.

Along with the cancellation of the 2pm–5pm alcohol sale ban, Tabba is also urging the government to step up enforcement of legal measures aimed at preventing alcohol-fuelled road accidents and illegal alcohol sales to people under 20 years old.