Bangkok: Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, has ordered a thorough investigation into a beauty clinic following consumer complaints about excessive charges for liposuction services. The minister has tasked the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) to conduct detailed inspections of beauty clinics to ensure transparency in their pricing practices.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supamas, in her supervisory role over the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), highlighted a specific case where a consumer was charged more than double the advertised price for an abdominal liposuction procedure. The consumer initially saw a promotion for 33,999 baht on social media but faced additional costs totaling 70,000 baht. The outcome of the procedure also reportedly did not align with the advertised expectations, sparking public criticism of the clinic's practices. The investigation is being closely monitored by Mr. Pradermchai Boonchuaylue and Dr. Patcharin Samsiripong, who are regularly updating the minister on its progress. Mr. Ronnarong Poolpipat, the Secretary-General of the OCPB, has been directed to expedite the inquiry and take appropriate legal action.
Ms. Supamas emphasized the continuation of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's policy to ensure fair treatment for citizens in the marketplace, particularly within the burgeoning beauty service sector. She has instructed the CPB to coordinate with the Department of Health Service Support (DHSS) and the Medical Council to provide comprehensive support to affected consumers. The minister voiced her concerns about additional charges that surpass the advertised prices, which put consumers at a disadvantage. She also pointed out issues with contracts that contain clauses potentially preventing customers from seeking compensation. The CPB is committed to investigating such practices thoroughly to determine their legality and fairness.
The minister noted that the victims have already lodged complaints with the CPB, which is working to gather facts from all parties involved and will proceed with legal measures as necessary. The CPB has also enhanced its oversight of beauty service contracts, requiring businesses to clearly communicate all relevant details, including costs, payment terms, and the names and credentials of the doctors involved, to consumers before services are rendered. This move aims to ensure transparency and prevent the use of misleading contract terms.
Ms. Supamas stressed the importance of consumer protection alongside the elevation of business standards in the beauty industry. The CPB will continue to scrutinize pricing, services, and contract conditions to prevent exploitation and unfair practices. Businesses will be encouraged to provide accurate and transparent information to bolster public trust and improve industry standards. She urged consumers to seek written confirmation of total costs before committing to any beauty services, thoroughly review all contracts, and retain documentation of transactions. The minister reiterated that beauty should not entail hidden risks and that advertised prices should be honored. Complaints regarding deceptive advertising or unfair charges can be directed to the CPB hotline at 1166.