Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has announced plans to conduct public hearings on seven controlled items within the next 7-15 days before proposing their addition to the list of controlled goods to the Cabinet.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Commerce aims to expedite the submission of this proposal to the Cabinet to take timely action on the matter.
Ms. Kanittha Kangsuwanich, Inspector General and Deputy Spokesperson of the Ministry of Commerce, outlined current measures to manage the cost of living and commodity prices, overseen by the Center for Monitoring and Surveillance of the Conflict in the Middle East. She emphasized ongoing collaboration between the Ministry, provincial governors, and provincial commerce officials to monitor prices daily, aiming to prevent price gouging and hoarding.
The Ministry's investigation, conducted from March 1st to March 26th, received 410 complaints. Of these, 187 have been investigated, while over 200 are pending. Notably, 44 complaints involve overcharging. Officials have requested cost breakdowns, warning of potential legal action if excessive pricing is confirmed.
Ms. Kanittha highlighted the impact of rising global oil prices on the cost of goods, prompting the Minister of Commerce to announce measures to alleviate the cost of living for both the public and businesses. These measures target various groups, including farmers, producers, and consumers, to help them navigate the current economic challenges.
The "Thai Helps Thai" project, set to launch on April 1, 2026, will offer discounts on essential daily necessities. Consumer goods such as soap, shampoo, detergent, and toilet paper will see price reductions of up to 50%, while food products like rice, fish sauce, canned food, condiments, and instant noodles will be discounted by up to 25%, providing more affordable options.
Additionally, the project aims to support businesses, including convenience stores, in selling affordable products. The "Blue Flag Low-Price Program," a continuous initiative by the Ministry, will expand its distribution network nationwide, reaching more provinces and districts and increasing program frequency.
For farmers, the Green Flag Plus Fertilizer project will assist with fertilizer costs. Ms. Kanittha stated that the list of controlled goods and services will be expanded from 59 to 66 items. Newly proposed controlled goods for Cabinet consideration include plastic pellets, bottled water, and soy sauces. The proposals will undergo public consultation before being presented to the Cabinet.
Items requiring permission for price increases, such as toilet paper, shampoo, sanitary pads, soap, and bottled fish sauce, will also be addressed. The Ministry encourages reporting of unauthorized sales to its 24-hour hotline.