The Department of Internal Trade has ordered price controls across the country to respond to global developments, stressing a strict ban on opportunistic price increases. It pointed out that the four major oil trading partners have not adjusted prices, with no reason to raise them.
3 Mar 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Witthayakorn Maneenet, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, revealed that after Ms. Supachai Suthamphan, Minister of Commerce, instructed agencies under the Ministry of Commerce to closely monitor the unrest in the Middle East region, while continuing measures to oversee prices and the cost of living for citizens. This aims to prevent fluctuations from external factors that might affect the domestic economy. The Department of Internal Trade has therefore accelerated proactive measures to maintain price stability for goods and services.
The Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade said the department has been coordinating closely with the Ministry of Energy to continuously monitor energy prices. They have also contacted oil suppliers partnered with the department, including PTT, PT, Bangchak, and Susco gas stations, all of whom reported no fuel price increases. Additionally, the Ministry of Energy is currently maintaining fixed oil prices, so there is no energy cost factor that would justify producers or traders raising prices of goods and services. He emphasized a clear ban on opportunistic price hikes.
Mr. Witthayakorn added, “Furthermore, the Department of Internal Trade has promptly coordinated with various consumer goods manufacturers, who have not yet experienced cost impacts. To prevent opportunism, officials at both central and provincial commerce offices nationwide have been ordered to intensify inspections of goods and service sales, especially items linked to energy and transportation costs, to closely monitor price developments and prevent unjustified foreign-related price increases. Businesses are also required to display clear, accurate, and complete price tags in accordance with the law.”
The Department of Internal Trade has emphasized strict compliance with the Price of Goods and Services Act B.E. 2542 (1999), forbidding opportunistic price increases, hoarding, or any actions causing unfairness to consumers. Violations will be prosecuted immediately under the law. Offenders face penalties of up to seven years in prison, fines up to 140,000 baht, or both.
Mr. Witthayakorn further stated that the public should not panic as consumer goods remain sufficient, and no factors necessitate price increases at this time. The department will continue to monitor the situation closely and is ready to use strict legal measures against those exploiting the situation to take advantage of citizens, ensuring ongoing price fairness and cost of living protection.
However, if citizens observe unjustified price hikes, failure to display price tags, or hoarding behavior, they can report these issues via the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569 or through provincial commerce offices nationwide, allowing officials to inspect and enforce legal actions promptly.
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