Bangkok: The government warned businesses against taking advantage of the situation by unjustifiedly raising prices, stating that such actions are punishable by imprisonment for up to 7 years, a fine of up to 140,000 baht, or both. The public is urged not to panic, as there is still sufficient supply of goods.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is closely monitoring the unrest in the Middle East and has instructed all agencies to prepare measures to address the situation in their respective areas. In particular, essential consumer goods and daily necessities must be readily available. Businesses and retailers must not take advantage of the situation by raising prices and must clearly and accurately display prices for goods and services in accordance with the law.

The government reiterates its reminder that businesses must strictly comply with the Price Control Act of 1999. It is prohibited to take advantage of the situation by raising prices, hoarding goods, or engaging in any actions that unfairly disadvantage consumers. Any violations will be prosecuted immediately. The offense of unjustified price gouging is punishable by imprisonment for up to 7 years, a fine of up to 140,000 baht, or both.

Ms. Airin stated that the public should not panic. Investigations by the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, have found sufficient supplies of consumer goods and no necessary factors for price increases have been identified. The government will closely monitor the situation and instruct relevant agencies to take decisive legal action against those who take advantage of the public, in order to control the cost of living and maintain fair pricing. If the public witnesses any unjustified price increases, failure to display price tags, or hoarding of goods, they can file a complaint via the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569 or through the provincial commerce offices nationwide. Officials will then investigate and take immediate legal action.