Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has conducted inspections across various markets to ensure that consumer goods remain sufficiently supplied, despite some price increases attributed to rising energy costs and adverse weather conditions. The latest inspection took place at the Thanommitr Market, where it was confirmed that while most prices are stable, certain items have experienced price hikes. The ministry has mandated intensified inspections nationwide to curb potential price gouging.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Arada Fuangthong, Director-General of the Department of International Trade, visited Thanommitr Market in Bangkok's Bang Khen District to oversee the pricing of consumer goods. This initiative aligns with the directive from Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, Minister of Commerce, who has urged all relevant agencies to conduct urgent nationwide price inspections. The goal is to closely monitor living costs and prevent exploitative pricing practices.
The inspection findings indicate that essential consumer goods are adequately supplied. However, price fluctuations have been observed, with some items like pork seeing a price increase-lean pork loin now costs 160 baht per kilogram compared to last month. Chicken prices, which had previously risen, have stabilized and are not expected to increase further as factory prices have started declining.
There has been a minor price increase in chicken eggs, with size 3 eggs now priced at 3.7 baht each, reflecting a 20 satang rise. Certain fresh vegetables, including spring onions, eggplants, and lemons, have also seen slight price hikes due to weather-induced supply reductions. Conversely, other vegetables like lettuce and cabbage, along with fresh seafood, have not experienced price changes.
In retail outlets, products like plastic bags and cooking oil have witnessed slight price increases, whereas rice prices remain stable. Restaurants offering cooked food, such as rice and curry, noodles, and Hainanese chicken rice, have not yet raised prices. Many businesses continue to absorb the rising costs, especially those related to packaging materials, to maintain their customer base.
Ms. Arada emphasized that the Ministry of Commerce is vigilantly monitoring inventory and cost structures. Officials are conducting thorough price inspections across all goods, ensuring that businesses do not unjustly increase prices using existing inventory. It is prohibited to raise prices based on existing raw materials.
The Department of International Trade identified key cost drivers in the short term, including heightened energy, transportation, and packaging costs, alongside weather impacts on agricultural output. Global tensions, particularly in the Middle East involving Iran, have affected energy and raw material prices, impacting upstream products like fertilizers and chemicals. This situation could influence agricultural and industrial production and exert short-term pressure on Thailand's border and transit trade. Nevertheless, overall product supply remains adequate, and most businesses are keeping prices stable.
The Ministry of Commerce will maintain ongoing surveillance of commodity markets to ensure equitable pricing and mitigate any potential impacts on public living costs. The ministry reiterated its commitment to addressing instances of price gouging, hoarding, or refusal to sell goods in accordance with the law. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities via the hotline 1569.