Bangkok: Inflation in Thailand surged to 2.89% in April, marking the highest level in 38 months, driven by rising costs associated with the Middle East conflict. The conflict has notably impacted the prices of single-dish meals, which have increased by at least 5 baht per dish, with expectations for further price hikes in May.
According to Thai News Agency, the price of single-serving meals has been observed to increase gradually across various areas, including the Ratchada Market Soi 4. Prices for items such as noodles, grilled chicken, fried chicken, and mango salad have all risen. Sellers attribute these increases to the heightened costs of raw materials and packaging following the US-Israeli invasion of Iran on February 28, 2026, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and a subsequent need for price adjustments.
Mr. Nantapong Chiraleartpong, Director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy (OTPS), reported that the consumer price index (CPI) for April 2026 stood at 103.03, reflecting a 2.89% general inflation rate, which is 2.75% higher than March. This inflation surge is primarily due to increased domestic fuel prices arising from the Middle East conflict and the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to higher transportation fares and ready-to-eat meal prices. The price of fresh vegetables has also risen due to extremely hot weather. Among the 464 items assessed for April's inflation, 251 items saw price increases.
The overall inflation rate for the first four months of 2026 averaged 0.32%, while the core consumer price index for April increased by 0.83% compared to the previous year. This resulted in an average core inflation rate of 0.64% for January to April 2026. Mr. Nantapong commented that the Thai economy is experiencing low growth and high inflation due to rising production costs from high oil and energy prices, leading to a supply shock.
Mr. Nantapong further detailed the factors contributing to the current inflation trend, including consistent high global crude oil prices, increased prices for ready-to-eat food, rising meat prices, and higher travel expenses. Meanwhile, government measures such as the "Thai Helps Thai" project and adjustments to electricity tariffs are expected to help reduce the cost of living. In June 2026, electricity tariff structures will be adjusted to further assist consumers.