The Department of Internal Trade inspected monastic supply shops around Si Kak Sao Chingcha, confirming that prices for monk offering sets and Buddhist Lent candles remain stable. They noted that consumers tend to buy smaller, self-assembled sets and reiterated the importance of vendors clearly displaying price tags.
Mr. Jirawut Suwanart, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, stated that with the upcoming Asalha Puja and Buddhist Lent days (29-30 July 2026), which are significant Buddhist holidays, people traditionally purchase monk offering sets, Thai Dharma sets, and Buddhist Lent candles to present to monks. To ensure fair trade and prevent unjustified price hikes, the Department has promoted clear retail price displays to help consumers compare prices before buying. On 24 July 2026, officials inspected monastic supply shops near Si Kak Sao Chingcha intersection in Bangkok. Findings showed that prices for monk offering sets, Thai Dharma sets, and Buddhist Lent candles remain steady compared to the same period last year, despite increased costs for candles and items within the sets. Some shops have adjusted by changing product brands or altering sizes and quantities instead of raising prices.
The current selling prices are summarized as follows:
Vendors reported that sales of monk offering sets, Thai Dharma sets, and Buddhist Lent candles this year tend to decline due to economic conditions. Consequently, Buddhists are shifting their purchasing behavior by choosing smaller sets, assembling their own offerings, buying temple-prepared sets that are cheaper than retail, or opting for electric lights as substitutes for traditional candles.
Mr. Jirawut added that the Department requires vendors to clearly display retail prices, along with product lists, sizes, weights per unit, quantities per set, and prices for each item in the monk offering or Thai Dharma sets, including container fees. Text and numbers must be at least font size 16 to help consumers confidently compare prices and make purchasing decisions.
"So far, shops have cooperated well by clearly posting price tags. This not only complies with the law but also builds consumer confidence in choosing products comfortably. The Department thanks all vendors who contribute to fair trade and will continue monitoring prices at key festivals to ensure the public can make merit at fair prices. If anyone has questions or experiences unfair sales, they can report to the Department’s hotline at 1569," Mr. Jirawut said.
. "Read the news " State Policies " further