"Ice" accompanied by "Cho" toured Nonthaburi Riverside Market to meet the public and survey the trading atmosphere. They found sparse crowds and subdued activity. Vendors are bearing higher costs but remain reluctant to raise prices, calling on the government to reconsider assistance measures.
On 12 Apr 2026 GMT+7, at Nonthaburi Riverside Market, Rakchanok Srinok, a party-list MP from the People’s Party, together with Pannika Wanich, Executive Committee member of the Progressive Foundation, toured the market to meet citizens and discuss the spending situation during the Songkran festival amid the current oil price crisis.
During the visit, Rakchanok and Pannika spoke with vendors and shoppers about the impact of oil prices on product prices and trade. They found that prices of many raw materials had risen, notably plastic materials and cooking oil. Several fruits and vegetables increased in price due to higher transportation costs, while some items like coconuts and out-of-season vegetables saw price declines. Seafood prices rose, but overall, nearly all vendors kept prices stable, fearing that raising them would deter buyers.
After surveying and speaking with market visitors, Pannika stated that the market was less lively than expected. Normally, Sunday mornings during Songkran see increased shopping activity, but this was not the case now.
Another observation was that most vendors were reluctant to raise prices because the current economic situation has already reduced customers. Even though many raw materials have become more expensive, vendors continue selling at the same prices. For example, curry rice shops face increased ingredient costs but absorb these without raising prices. Some vegetables have seasonal price increases, but others have risen clearly due to higher oil prices. In summary, all raw materials have become costlier, yet vendors hold prices steady.
Pannika added that this situation further contracts the economy as people hesitate to spend and prefer to save. Many people reflected that the 100-baht welfare card per month is insufficient. She acknowledged the government's need to consider fiscal conditions but questioned how well the government understands the financial hardships faced by its citizens while expecting them to understand national finances.
Short-term welfare aid should focus on identifying those truly in need, such as farmers, fishermen, and vulnerable groups. Instead of urging citizens to be frugal, the government should practice budget restraint. Citizens have already cut back as much as possible. Non-essential projects should be postponed, and funds redirected to short-term assistance programs. The government must recognize that every delay causes more hardship for the people.
Pannika further highlighted the issue of plastics, which are not currently in shortage but have seen abnormal price increases from factories. This is a major concern for small vendors and grassroots sellers, beyond just oil and energy issues.
Rakchanok noted that from the survey, fruit costs had not been significantly affected, with some seasonal price adjustments. However, nearly all vendors rely heavily on plastic bags and cooking oil. It was evident that fewer people were visiting the market due to stagnant incomes and rising expenses, leading to reduced purchases limited to essentials. Luxuries are being cut back accordingly. Despite the Songkran festival, fewer people are traveling long distances home, and some families have canceled planned trips.
She urged the government to carefully consider these issues, especially as it prepares the 2027 fiscal budget. The government should reduce budgets for projects that can be delayed, such as road and building construction, as the urgent priority now is the well-being of the people.
