The government warns businesses against unjustified price hikes with penalties up to 7 years in prison, fines of 140,000 baht, or both. It urges the public not to panic as supplies remain sufficient.
On 4 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Airin Panrit, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the government is closely monitoring unrest in the Middle East region. It has instructed all agencies to prepare relevant response measures, especially to ensure sufficient consumer goods and essential daily items. Retailers and businesses must not exploit the situation to raise prices and must clearly display accurate and complete price tags in compliance with the law.
“The government reiterates that businesses must strictly comply with the Price of Goods and Services Act 1999. They are prohibited from exploiting situations to raise prices or hoarding goods, or engaging in any actions causing unfairness to consumers. If violations are detected, legal action will be taken immediately. Offenders face up to 7 years imprisonment or fines up to 140,000 baht, or both,” she said.
The Deputy Government Spokesperson added that the public should remain calm. The Department of Internal Trade at the Ministry of Commerce has verified that consumer goods supplies are still sufficient and there is no reason to raise prices at this time. The government will continue to closely monitor the situation and has ordered related agencies to enforce laws strictly against those exploiting the public, to protect living costs and maintain price fairness consistently.
Meanwhile, if the public notices unjustified price increases, failure to display price tags, or hoarding behavior, they can report it to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569 or contact provincial commerce offices nationwide. Officials will promptly investigate and take legal action.