The Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, has ordered metrology officers to conduct comprehensive inspections of gold retailers nationwide, overseeing the accuracy of weighing scales and price displays. This follows severe fluctuations in gold prices and continuous buying and selling by the public. Authorities emphasized that any violations will be strictly prosecuted under the law, with penalties up to 7 years imprisonment and fines of 280,000 baht.
Ms. Yanee Srimanee, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, revealed that due to high volatility and a continuous decline in global gold prices, many people have turned to buying gold for saving and speculation. Mr. Witthayakorn Maneenetr, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, therefore instructed the Metrology Division to coordinate with provincial commerce offices nationwide.
They have been sent to inspect gold businesses—both bullion and jewelry—to verify the accuracy of digital scales and to enforce clear display of price tags, ensuring fairness and protection for consumers.
Preliminary inspection results show that, with the combined efforts of officials from 15 metrology centers and branch offices, 105 businesses were examined. Most gold shops complied with the law, displaying product labels and price tags clearly.
However, of the 132 digital scales inspected, one was found to have a measurement deviation exceeding the legal limit in Udon Thani province. Officials have acted according to the law by immediately sealing the device to prohibit its use.
Ms. Yanee added that the department urges operators to regularly check that their scales are in proper condition and certified by the Department of Internal Trade. Use of faulty or tampered scales can lead to a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment, a fine of up to 280,000 baht, or both. Failure to display price tags may result in fines up to 10,000 baht.
The Department of Internal Trade advises consumers to always observe the scale before any transaction; the scale must have a certification sticker from the department. If consumers encounter gold shops that do not display prices or suspect inaccurate scales, they can report suspicions to the department's hotline at 1569 or their local provincial commerce office for prompt investigation and protection of public fairness.
." State Policy " Additional