Debate on Establishing New Regulations for E-commerce Alcohol Sales

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) is delving into the sale of alcoholic beverages through online platforms, aiming to ensure compliance and prevent potential social, health, and legal impacts.

A working group, established by the Ministry of Health, recently convened for a meeting to discuss the regulation of online alcohol sales. The meeting was chaired by Suksit Srichomkwan, the prime minister's deputy secretary-general for political affairs. Representatives from state agencies including the Excise Department attended the gathering.

The DDC identified four key areas for study: legal, health and social, economic, and measures adopted in other countries. These areas encompass a wide range of aspects, including the influence of marketing and advertising, the effects on drinking habits, the role of delivery systems, and the potential impacts on accidents.

One of the main focuses is verifying buyers' ages for online alcohol sales. The DDC is examining ID verification methods used in foreign countries, as well as delivery restrictions and transaction monitoring methods. Monitoring compliance with existing regulations is another crucial focus.

The role of e-commerce platforms in online alcohol sales is also under analysis. The DDC is considering how to issue e-licences for online alcohol sales and scrutinizing the influence of marketing and advertising on these platforms.

The study also aims to understand the role of online alcohol sales in crime. The potential impacts of online sales on accidents are under consideration, with the goal of developing regulations that will ensure safety for all involved.

While no deadline has been set for the completion of the DDC's study on online alcohol sales, Mr Suksit stressed the importance of cooperation to produce a set of rules for online alcohol sales that will benefit both the public and the industry. The DDC is developing regulations for the sector due to limitations on selling alcoholic beverages directly to consumers online.

The chairperson of the first meeting of the working group has not been identified in the available search results. However, the DDC's commitment to thorough research and regulation is clear, as they strive to navigate the complexities of online alcohol sales responsibly.