Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has announced an ambitious campaign, "Thai Helps Thai," aiming to reduce the cost of living by cutting the prices of goods by up to 50%. This initiative comes as part of a broader effort to support the Thai economy and relieve financial pressure on consumers.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prakal Kodamrong, the Commercial Attach© at the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the World Trade Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization, outlined several measures that the Ministry is implementing in collaboration with businesses and manufacturers. The campaign includes over 1,000 items being offered at discounted rates starting April 1st.

In addition to the main campaign, the Ministry is expanding the "Blue Flag Low-Price Project" to over 500 locations and deploying mobile service vehicles to reach remote areas such as Prachinburi province. These efforts aim to make essential goods more accessible to populations outside major urban centers.

Another significant measure involves providing subsidized raw materials at special prices to restaurants to curb the rise in prepared food prices. This initiative is designed to stabilize food costs for both businesses and consumers.

The "Green Flag Fertilizer Plus" program is another key component, focusing on assisting farmers by offering discounts on fertilizer. Eligible farmers can receive up to 1,400 baht in total assistance. This program began in Kamphaeng Phet province and will extend to 50 provinces, targeting a 1 million baht discount in total.

The Ministry is also addressing logistical challenges, particularly with Thai cargo ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Efforts are underway to find alternative sources of fertilizer imports and explore new export markets. Discussions with international partners, including South Africa and Latin American countries, are part of this strategic approach.

A nationwide inspection of 3,477 retail outlets conducted in March found 25 violations, primarily related to the absence of price tags. The Ministry's hotline received 429 complaints during the same period, with investigations leading to penalties for 29 offenders. Additional complaints regarding excessive pricing are currently under review.