The government emphasizes that consumer goods are sufficient and urges the public not to panic. It warns against hoarding or exploiting the situation by raising prices, with penalties including imprisonment up to 7 years, fines up to 140,000 baht, or both.
On 27 September 2026, Ms. Ploythele Laksamisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that amid flooding in many areas including Bangkok, the government is closely monitoring the situation. It has instructed all agencies to cooperate closely to provide assistance to the public in all aspects, especially ensuring sufficient consumer goods and essential items for daily living. Retailers and businesses must not exploit the situation by raising prices and must clearly display prices of goods and services accurately and completely as required by law.
“The government reminds businesses to strictly comply with the Price of Goods and Services Act, B.E. 2542 (1999), prohibiting exploitation through unjustified price increases, hoarding, or any actions causing unfairness to consumers. Offenders will be prosecuted immediately under the law. Violations for unjustified price hikes carry a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment, a fine up to 140,000 baht, or both.”
The public is urged not to panic. According to inspections by the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, consumer goods remain sufficient, and there is no reason to raise prices. The Department is coordinating with manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and convenience stores to survey stock levels at each outlet, increase restocking rounds, and expedite distribution to areas with high demand. Flood-affected zones have caused delays in transportation and access to stores. If shortages, unfair prices, hoarding, or exploitation are found, the public can report via the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569.