Bangkok: Inspecting canned fish factories this afternoon, Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi revealed that Prime Minister Anutin is concerned about consumers. The Consumer Protection Board will inspect canned fish factories this afternoon. She urged manufacturers not to exacerbate the suffering of the public, stating, "If you can't help, don't harm others."
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, announced before visiting the canned fish factory in Samut Sakhon province that the Secretary-General of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had reported the inspection results the previous evening. She explained that the FDA has laws to regulate production and ensure product quality meets standards. In light of earlier reports, the factory owner claimed that 60% of the fish was mackerel, but consumers doubted this. The Department of Fisheries is set to further investigate to determine the exact fish species involved.
Ms. Suphamas emphasized that the Prime Minister, upon learning of the situation and expressing concern for the public, directed the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) to act promptly to safeguard consumers. The CPB's role is to assist consumers who have faced damages. Although the factory has negotiated and compensated for damages, other victims from the same product batch have not yet lodged complaints, and it is the CPB's duty to address these concerns.
Today, a government-backed site visit aims to reassure consumers that the government is actively monitoring businesses, ensuring their peace of mind and safety when purchasing goods or services. Ms. Suphamas noted that future inspections are expected to be friendly rather than forceful, unlike those conducted by authorized government officials. She stressed the importance of consumer protection to prevent deception, exploitation, or fraud. This particular case falls under the Consumer Protection Act (Thailand) concerning consumer rights, specifically the right to accurate information and proper labeling. Consumers were misled to believe the product was mackerel, resulting in misleading advertising. Furthermore, consumers have the right to freely choose products. If they were aware the product wasn't mackerel, they might not have purchased it. Consequently, consumers have the right to compensation, and the Consumer Protection Act will handle the legal proceedings. Vigilance and oversight are essential to preve nt such incidents from recurring and affecting other brands, which could cause panic and discouragement. The number of non-compliant products is small compared to those meeting standards.
This afternoon, the Consumer Protection Board (CPB), along with the Provincial Industry Office, the Provincial Public Health Office, the Secretary-General of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and related agencies in Samut Sakhon province, will visit the area to ensure consumers receive fair treatment and maintain confidence in consuming canned fish and other canned foods.
Addressing businesses exploiting the public, Ms. Suphamas highlighted that unrest in the Middle East has impacted Thailand both directly and indirectly. The public is, therefore, more sensitive due to economic hardship. She urged businesses not to further burden their fellow Thais and to demonstrate empathy during these challenging times, stressing that if they cannot help, they should at least not harm others.
On the government's "Thai Chuay Thai Plus" project, which offers affordable goods, Ms. Suphamas assured that there is no need to worry about quality control. She explained that products in the project are sourced from large factories and distributed by leading retailers, ensuring they meet quality standards.
Ms. Suphamas further elaborated that the Thai Help Thai Plus project is an initiative where entrepreneurs, empathizing with fellow Thais, are willing to make sacrifices or undertake CSR projects, akin to selling goods without profit, to help Thais overcome economic difficulties by offering products at fair and affordable prices.