Bangkok: The Department of Internal Trade is stepping up its inspection efforts of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and packaged goods across the nation to shield consumers from potential exploitation as costs rise. The department is also collaborating with 10 brands to roll out the "Full LPG Tank" project.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Yanee Srimanee, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, emphasized the importance of monitoring fair trade practices closely to prevent any unfair treatment of consumers. The department is accelerating inspections to ensure that consumers receive the exact quantity of products as stated and are treated fairly in their transactions.
Ms. Yanee disclosed that during April-May 2026, officials conducted inspections at bottling plants, LPG retailers, and packaging product businesses nationwide. These inspections revealed a mix of compliant businesses and those in violation, leading to product seizures, fines, and strict legal actions against offenders.
Inspections of LPG revealed underfilled cylinders in several areas. In Kanchanaburi province, an LPG filling plant was found in violation with 43 underfilled cylinders. In Ratchaburi province, two LPG retailers violated regulations, with 66 underfilled cylinders discovered. Further inspections in Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces found four violations out of 15 LPG filling plants and retailers checked. Authorities have seized the goods and initiated legal proceedings in all cases.
Regarding packaged goods, inspections in Pathum Thani and Nonthaburi provinces identified violations. A random sample of 10 items in Pathum Thani showed one violation, while another was found in Nonthaburi, resulting in fines for the offenders.
Ms. Yanee affirmed that the Department of Internal Trade will continue its rigorous inspections, particularly focusing on essential consumer products. Immediate legal action will be taken against any product discrepancies or consumer exploitation to uphold fair trade practices and protect consumer rights.
Violations of the Weights and Measures Act B.E. 2542 (1999) can result in imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both, for those bottling LPG and packaged goods with incorrect quantities. Selling goods that do not match the displayed quantity can lead to imprisonment for up to six months or a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both.
Ms. Yanee advised consumers to inspect packaging conditions, labels, and net weight before purchasing LPG or packaged goods, and to be wary of unusually low-priced products.
The public is encouraged to report any cases of potential consumer exploitation related to packaged goods or LPG sales to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569 or the local Weights and Measures branch office for prompt investigation and legal action.
In addition to enforcing laws and conducting inspections, the Department of Internal Trade is preparing to launch the "Full LPG Tank" project in partnership with 10 major LPG filling companies nationwide. This initiative aims to assure the public that the LPG sold meets the full volume as indicated by the Weights and Measures Act, while fostering a collaborative network with these companies to ensure consistent accuracy in LPG filling standards.