The Ministry of Commerce launched inspections of over 2,000 businesses, finding that most did not display product prices and sold items at prices inconsistent with those shown. Legal action including fines has been taken, with the Department of Internal Trade affirming strict enforcement of legal measures.
At 11:05 a.m. on 22 Mar at the Center for Management and Monitoring of the Middle East Conflict Situation (CM3), Ms. Yanee Srimanee, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, stated that due to ongoing volatility in energy and production costs, the Ministry closely monitors product prices, production costs, and product volumes. Teams have been deployed on the ground to ensure fairness for all parties: farmers, businesses, and most importantly, consumers.
Ms. Yanee reported that from 1 to 20 March, the Ministry actively supervised 2,321 cases nationwide. Integrating with related local agencies, inspections were conducted jointly with provincial governors, provincial energy officers, and provincial committees on prices of goods and services (PCPGS). A total of 2,021 business establishments were inspected, including 1,262 gas stations, 433 chemical fertilizer shops, and 326 wholesale and retail markets. The aim was to ensure prices reflect real costs, prevent refusal of sales, and maintain sufficient product supply for the public. Provincial inspections found 10 cases of failure to display price tags, for which legal action was taken.
Ms. Yanee said that regarding on-site inspections prompted by public complaints via the Department of Internal Trade hotline 1569, 300 complaints about prices and product quantities were investigated—53 in Bangkok and 247 in other provinces. Of these, 99 cases were completed: 42 in Bangkok and 57 elsewhere. Violations were found in 12 cases of failure to display prices; fines were imposed according to law in areas including Bang Sue, Lat Phrao, Watthana, Phaya Thai, Bangkok Noi, Khlong Toei, Suan Luang, Prawet, and Bang Bon districts. Additionally, three cases involved selling products at prices different from those displayed in Khlong Toei, Yannawa, and Bang Khun Thian districts, with fines also imposed.
Ms. Yanee noted there were 25 complaints about excessive pricing. Upon receiving these, officials request documents to analyze costs; if prices are found unreasonably high, legal prosecution will follow. So far, 79 cases showed no violations, and 201 cases are still under investigation—11 in Bangkok and 190 elsewhere. The Department of Internal Trade will conduct proactive, strict enforcement and report inspection results daily at 3:30 p.m.
However, the Ministry of Commerce is also taking proactive measures by collaborating with the private sector and related public groups to alleviate living costs. They encourage the public to report affordable stores and outlets to build a nationwide price information network, alongside monitoring price increases. The Department of Internal Trade partners with fresh markets and associations nationwide to promote normal pricing and supports government-endorsed affordable stores and restaurants. This cooperation among government, businesses, and the public aims to keep product prices reasonable.
Ms. Yanee said the Ministry, led by the Commerce Minister, has prepared special measures to assist groups dependent on fuel—farmers, transporters, and low-income people—to reduce living costs through the Flagship Project for affordable prices. Existing programs will expand to cover more locations nationwide, including provinces, districts, and communities. Additionally, the Green Flagship Project will help reduce farmers' costs by supporting essential fertilizers for the upcoming production season, as part of the Ministry's readiness to act.
Ms. Yanee affirmed that the Ministry of Commerce will continuously and closely monitor product prices and quantities, applying legal measures seriously to protect the public's living standards and maintain the country's goods and services system.