The Department of Internal Trade held discussions with department stores and fresh markets to prepare for floods, assuring that consumer goods are sufficiently stocked without shortages, and enforcing strict price controls ahead of the Vegetarian Festival. The public is urged to report any price gouging via hotline 1569.
Due to flooding in several areas disrupting daily life and increasing demand for consumer goods to stockpile for emergencies, the Ministry of Commerce has expedited coordination with the private sector to prevent shortages and control prices against consumer exploitation.
Mr. Witthayakorn Maneenet, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, stated that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supachai Sutthammanoon has ordered the Department of Internal Trade to closely monitor the situation. On 27 September 2026, representatives from all sales channels—including modern trade groups, convenience stores, fresh markets, wholesale markets, and local malls—were invited to a meeting to assess transportation and distribution conditions and discuss ways to assist the public.
Following discussions with operators, the overall retail and wholesale trade systems continue to function normally. Modern trade malls are able to continuously restock, though some convenience store branches in affected areas such as Bang Kapi, Min Buri, and Rangsit may experience travel disruptions, leading to some irregular service.
Most fresh and wholesale markets remain open and stocked, though some impact is seen from fewer buyers and vendors due to travel restrictions. The Department of Internal Trade will closely track transportation and market openings and closures by area to support timely problem-solving.
Particular attention is on leafy vegetables such as coriander, celery, and Chinese celery, which have seen price increases due to weather and transport issues, while prices for cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers have declined.
Regarding the upcoming Vegetarian Festival from 10–18 October 2026, the Department of Internal Trade estimates that unless heavy rains disrupt growing areas and transport routes, vegetable supply can be managed to meet demand without shortages.
To alleviate public hardship, the Department of Internal Trade has established two key assistance measures:
1. Linking essential goods to markets. Coordinate with producers to continuously supply pork, chicken, eggs, and essential vegetables to fresh and wholesale markets, while dispatching officials to monitor prices and prevent opportunistic practices.
2. Updating information on sales points. Collaborate with modern trade malls, convenience stores, and markets to communicate branch openings and closures by area to the public, helping consumers plan travel and shopping more conveniently.
Mr. Witthayakorn added his thanks to operators for their dedicated efforts to restock and distribute goods. He urged the public to report any locations with insufficient goods or unfair pricing to the Department of Internal Trade hotline 1569, so officials can promptly coordinate and resolve issues.
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