Minister Santi initiates six consumer protection measures fearing that the Middle East war's impact will cause product price fluctuations. He orders intensive inspections of gas stations after suspicions of hoarding arise.
On 11 March 2026, Mr. Santi Piyatat, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and overseer of the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP), announced six key measures to protect the public from the effects of energy price volatility and supply chain disruptions. These include expanding the 1166 hotline with 10 additional lines to receive complaints 24 hours a day; strict control of utility fees prohibiting dormitories and rental accommodations from overcharging electricity and water; inspection of gold labels to ensure fair management of gold sales amid price fluctuations; campaigns to raise consumer rights awareness focusing on quality, standards, and prices both offline and online; increasing payment options encouraging merchants to accept multiple payment methods (cash/apps); and promoting safe online shopping by supporting purchases through platforms registered as “direct markets” with the OCP.
Mr. Santi also addressed complaints about some gas stations claiming fuel shortages, reporting issues especially in southern provinces like Phang Nga. He ordered the Department of Internal Trade and the OCP to increase the frequency of field inspections to determine whether shortages are genuine or caused by hoarding for speculation. If violations are found, legal action will be taken immediately.
Mr. Panidol Patchimsawat, Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, updated on assistance to Thai nationals amid the Middle East war. Sixty-eight Thais who evacuated to Van city in Turkey will arrive in Thailand in two groups: the first on the morning of 12 March and the second on 13 March. Fourteen Thais in Iraq are being coordinated through Jordan for transfer to Turkey. Qatar is preparing to receive 24 stranded Thais, arriving in Bangkok on the evening of 11 March via a special flight. Meanwhile, Etihad Airlines in the UAE is operating daily flights to Bangkok and Phuket until 12 March to evacuate passengers.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned about fraudsters impersonating embassy officials in Israel, deceiving people into transferring money for evacuation fees and plane tickets. The ministry confirmed that the embassy does not require payment for evacuation fees and urged contacting only through official channels. It also reported that over 381 Thai nationals have been assisted so far.