Could LISA face legal trouble over beer on US TV?

Thai pop sensation Lisa, real name Lalisa Manobal, has ignited a digital discussion amidst Thailand’s stringent alcohol regulations following her appearance on the American talk show, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. During the episode, Lisa showcased traditional Thai cuisine and beverages, including som tam and beer, while demonstrating how to craft an alcoholic concoction.

The segment prominently featured the name and logo of a local beer brand, leading to concerns among netizens regarding potential legal ramifications in Thailand should the content be disseminated online.

Thailand’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Act 2008, Section 32/2, expressly forbids individuals from leveraging their fame or celebrity status to promote or display the names or trademarks of alcoholic beverages for the sole purpose of enticing others to drink. A query was submitted to Public Health Minister Phatthana Promphat on September 18 at the Department of Disease Control.

Minister Phatthana affirmed that the law's framework remains unchanged despite Lisa's appearance occurring on a foreign platform, stating that the show did not air within Thailand. Nonetheless, he cautioned that the program’s online circulation could expose it to Thai viewers. Minister Phatthana opined that the incident should not pose any legal issues due to the show’s international nature.

Nevertheless, he emphasized that certain media outlets had obscured the product name and logo when sharing clips within Thailand, thus adhering to local law. Additionally, he appealed to those sharing or forwarding the content to exercise discretion and, when feasible, refrain from showing alcohol brand names and logos to comply with Thai law.