Bangkok:The Ministry of Commerce is taking urgent steps to replenish supplies in regions affected by flooding, with a particular focus on preventing shortages of leafy vegetables and eggs due to damaged production sources. Strict sales controls are being enforced to prevent price gouging.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supajee Suthamphan has mandated immediate action to address these commodity shortages. She has instructed that produce from unaffected areas be directed to central markets like Sri Muang Market and Talat Thai for broader distribution.

To assist areas with limited accessibility, the Ministry of Commerce is coordinating with the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Transport to deliver goods using large vehicles. The Department of Internal Trade has set up a coordination center to liaise with manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and distribution centers to monitor stock levels and accelerate the replenishment process in shortage-hit regions.

The Ministry is also appealing to egg businesses to delay exports by 30-50% to boost domestic supply. Mr. Jirawut Suwannach, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, noted that vegetable-growing areas in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Nakhon Pathom, and Chachoengsao have been damaged, lowering market supply. Efforts are underway to bring vegetables from unaffected areas like Phetchabun and parts of Nakhon Ratchasima to central markets and retail outlets.

Regarding eggs, around 3 million chickens in Chachoengsao province have been impacted, diminishing egg supplies. The Department of Internal Trade is arranging imports from other regions, implementing strategies to extend hen laying periods, and seeking exporter cooperation to defer exports until December.

Additionally, the Ministry is working with the Egg Producers Association and large farms to maintain the farm-gate price of eggs at 4 baht per egg, urging retailers to distribute supplies to areas experiencing shortages. The public is encouraged to report any instances of price tag omissions, inflated pricing, or exploitative practices during the flood crisis to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569.