Tougher use of alcohol promotion laws coming soon to Phuket

A health official has confirmed details of a report by the Chiang Mai City News that indicates that a much more rigorous application of the Alcohol Control Act of 2008 is on its way soon.

Among the results will be:

• A ban on “beer girls” — pretty girls who promote beers at events or in bars;
• Health warnings on all alcohol products

• A ban on the use of used bottles of alcohol for decoration;
• An end to happy hours;
• A ban on promoting alcohol through word of mouth;
• A ban on alcohol-branded glasses, ashtrays, beer mats and other bar paraphernalia; and A ban on any promotion of alcohol consumption.

Those breaking the law face hefty fines or even prison sentences of up to six months.

Dr Prapa Nakara, Director of Non-communicable Diseases at the Phuket Public Health Office, whose task it is to keep an eye on alcohol-related issues told The Phuket News today (August 27), “We work on alcohol marketing anyway. This is not a special crackdown because this law was passed in 2008.

“When it comes to advertising in publications, on billboards or elsewhere each cases has be considered in terms of what the motivation is.

“If the motivation is to get people to drink alcohol, we will check it out and report the case to the Governor of Phuket. The police are responsible for upholding this law.

“I have come across cases such as public announcements along the lines of “Buy one, get one free.” These are not correct. If they say “We didn’t know about that,” our response is that any alcohol-related business owner must know.

“Of course, I don’t know about every place [on the island] where they promote alcohol openly so if you have the information and photos let us know and we will investigate.

“What happens after that will depend on the police and the courts.”

Those wanting advice on the precise rules about advertising, promotion and marketing of alcohol can get it from the Phuket Public Health Office.

The original Chiang Mai City News report is Here

Phuket News

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