The Progressive Liquor Bill, which aims to create fairer rules for small and community-based alcohol producers in Thailand, resurfaced in public discussions after being mentioned in a memorandum of understanding signed by eight parties looking to form a coalition government. The bill, proposed by the Move Forward Party (MFP), narrowly lost approval in the House of Representatives last year by two votes.
The legislation seeks to amend Section 153 of the Excise Tax Act of 2017, making it easier for small and local brewers and distillers to register for a licence. The proposed changes would remove requirements that have been criticised for favouring large producers and preventing small and medium-sized enterprises from entering the market.
Piti Bhirombhakdi, board director of Boon Rawd Brewery, one of the two largest players in the Thai alcohol industry, expressed…
