Bangkok: The Commerce Ministry is implementing strict measures to control product prices during the Songkran festival in 2026. The Department of Internal Trade is conducting rigorous inspections to prevent businesses from unjustifiably increasing prices during this period and is committed to ensuring fairness for consumers. The public is encouraged to report any irregularities to hotline 1569.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirawut Suwannach, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, disclosed that inspections have been carried out at key locations, including major transportation hubs such as Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, Ekkamai Bus Terminal, Mo Chit Bus Terminal, Bangkok Central Station, Don Mueang Airport, and the Motorway rest area at kilometer 49 (Bang Pakong). These efforts, conducted in partnership with the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) and other relevant agencies, aim to ensure business compliance with the law.
The inspections have shown that most businesses are adhering to regulations by displaying prices clearly and selling goods and services at those prices. The department has reinforced the prohibition of unjustified price increases and emphasized the necessity of fair service fees for consumers.
Prices at public transportation hubs have remained stable, similar to those observed during the New Year's period of 2026. Examples include rice with curry priced between 40-60 baht per dish, Hainanese chicken rice at 50-70 baht per dish, and pork noodles at 40-65 baht per bowl. Luggage storage services are priced at 30-90 baht per piece, and automated luggage lockers cost 40-80 baht per hour. These prices indicate no abnormal increases, although variations can occur based on location and costs. The Department of Internal Trade remains vigilant in monitoring the commodity situation, particularly for products potentially affected by the Middle East conflict, and continues to track opportunistic price gouging and other violations.
From March 1st to April 8th, 2026, there have been 567 complaints, with 151 from Bangkok and 416 from other provinces. Investigations have been completed for 376 cases, revealing 33 instances of failure to display prices and 6 instances of selling goods at inconsistent prices. Fines have been levied in accordance with the law, while 107 complaints related to overpriced goods are still under investigation.
Mr. Jirawut emphasized that businesses must comply with the Price Control Act of 1999 by clearly displaying prices, selling at correct prices, and avoiding hoarding goods. Non-compliance can result in fines up to 10,000 baht for failure to display prices and imprisonment up to 7 years or fines up to 140,000 baht for excessive pricing. The Department of Internal Trade will maintain close monitoring throughout the Songkran festival to ensure adequate supply and fair pricing. The public is urged to report any price gouging incidents to hotline 1569 or provincial commerce offices nationwide.