The Ministry of Commerce confirms ongoing price supervision of 59 items to prevent traders from exploiting price increases. It has also introduced measures to reduce living costs through the “Blue Flag-Green Flag” projects, with a management team scheduled to inspect markets from 23 to 25 March.
At 11:05 on 23 March 2026, at the Center for Management and Monitoring of the Middle East Conflict Situation (CMMS) at Government House, Ms. Kanitta Kangsawanich, Inspector General and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce, announced about controlling prices of consumer goods and measures to assist citizens’ living costs. She stated that under the Price of Goods and Services Act B.E. 2542 (1999), the ministry closely supervises prices of 59 items. Among these, a group of essential goods for daily living is strictly regulated, including ready-to-eat foods, instant noodles, canned foods, plain milk and infant formula—nutritional products for young children—as well as chemical fertilizers and animal feed, which are vital to agricultural livelihoods.
Therefore, producers and sellers wishing to raise prices on these items must obtain permission from the Ministry of Commerce first. The ministry will carefully review cost structures and expenses before granting approval.
Another group of closely monitored products includes daily necessities such as detergent powder, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, toilet paper, medicines, and medical supplies. Price increases on these items do not require permission but must be reported to the Ministry of Commerce in advance.
Regarding the recent rise in fuel prices, the Minister of Commerce has expressed concern about the impact on the public’s living costs. Consequently, the Department of Internal Trade has been instructed to review the list of items to suit the current situation, consult relevant agencies, and submit recommendations to the Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services, chaired by the Minister of Commerce, for approval.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Commerce coordinates with provincial governors, provincial commerce officials, and provincial price committees to closely monitor conditions. They inspect sales to ensure prices are correctly displayed and reflect actual costs, prevent refusal of sales, and track stock levels to guarantee sufficient supplies for public demand.
To assist citizens’ living costs, especially vulnerable groups, the Ministry of Commerce has prepared support measures. These include expanding nationwide outlets offering essential goods at special prices through the “Affordable Blue Flag” project, covering provincial, district, and community levels, alongside reducing farmers’ costs via the “Green Flag Fertilizer” project at affordable prices for the production season. Additionally, the ministry will collaborate with major producers to provide essential goods, such as detergent powder and soap, at special prices through retail and community stores to ensure public access to affordable necessities. The ministry will also use government and civil society networks to monitor appropriate pricing, using the 1569 hotline to receive complaints and prevent unfair price hikes.
The Ministry of Commerce reaffirms its commitment to continuous supervision of goods and services. From 23 to 25 March, a management team will conduct market inspections and monitor key trade areas in Bangkok and its metropolitan region to closely oversee sales and prevent opportunistic price increases during a period when public concern is high.