Bangkok: The Commerce Ministry has initiated discussions with four other ministries to address the rising cost of living across the nation. The Department of Internal Trade has issued a warning that 15 specific products require official approval before any price changes can be implemented.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Internal Trade's directive aims to ensure fair trade practices and protect consumers from unjustified price increases. The list of products includes fertilizers, pesticides, animal feed, face masks, tin-plated steel sheets, canned fish, instant noodles, various types of milk, hygiene products, and bottled palm oil. Businesses are urged to report any excessive pricing or hoarding to the department's hotline at 1569.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Supajee Suthamphan, recently held talks with Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa and experts in environmentally friendly packaging. They explored methods to encourage the production of containers from natural plant fibers and agricultural waste, such as sugarcane bagasse and rice straw, as alternatives to plastics. This initiative responds to the rising cost of plastic pellets, attributed to the impact of the Iran-Iran conflict. The Ministry of Commerce has declared plastic pellets a controlled commodity to mitigate effects on businesses and living costs.
The government continues to implement short-term measures for regulating essential raw materials while promoting long-term sustainable alternatives. This approach not only aligns with global sustainability trends but also adds value to Thai agricultural products.
Additionally, Ms. Supajee chaired a meeting with several high-level officials, including Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, to discuss strategies for alleviating living costs. Despite the collaborative efforts, the specifics of the implementation plan remain undisclosed.