Bangkok:First paragraph of the news story begins here. The Ministry of Commerce is working to boost vegetable supplies in markets ahead of potential floods and the Vegetarian Festival, leading to a decrease in prices for several items.

According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Internal Trade is connecting vegetables from production sources to markets after heavy rains and flooding impacted agricultural areas, causing reduced supply and higher prices for some vegetables. Recently, prices for several items have begun to decrease as the department increases supply to meet the festival’s demand.

Heavy rainfall and flooding have affected major agricultural regions in the central, western, and northeastern parts of the country, resulting in fewer vegetables entering the market. Continuous rainfall in non-flooded areas has led to quality issues and crop damage, particularly for leafy vegetables. Longer transportation times have further affected product quality and contributed to price increases.

The Department of Internal Trade is coordinating the flow of produce to key central markets such as Si Mum Muang Market, Talat Thai, Talat Sri Muang, and Talat Lan Muang to ensure sufficient supply. Wholesale prices at Si Mum Muang Market show a decline from peak levels last week, with green cabbage, green chili peppers, red chili peppers, Chinese cabbage, and basil all seeing price drops, reflecting increased supply.

While prices for some leafy and stemmed vegetables are decreasing, they remain under scrutiny. Spring onions, basil, Chinese water spinach, Thai water spinach, and Chinese mustard greens have seen price adjustments, while lemon basil prices are rising due to weather-related supply reductions.

For areas affected by flooding, the department will monitor produce distribution and coordinate with agencies to resolve transport issues. This ensures a continuous supply to markets, especially during the Vegetarian Festival when vegetable demand is anticipated to rise.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Supajee Suthamphan, has directed close monitoring of vegetable supply, prices, and distribution. The department is also preparing the "Thai Helps Thai: A Feast of Merit and Savings During the 2026 Vegetarian Festival" event, offering affordable vegetarian meals and promotions to ease the public's financial burden.

Businesses are urged to sell goods at cost-appropriate prices, with penalties for non-compliance. The public is encouraged to report unfair practices to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569.