Nakhon ratchasima: Petty Officer 1st Class Yotsing Liamlert, Deputy Minister of Industry, spearheaded a major operation in Korat to eliminate over 2 million baht worth of non-TIS certified goods, marking a significant step in the battle against substandard products. This initiative is a part of a broader strategy to eradicate economic crimes associated with illegal goods, spanning from Bangkok to online platforms and provincial cities.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation, themed “Quick Closing – Quick Opening – Dependable Industry,” emphasizes not only the seizure of illegal goods but also their destruction to disrupt the cycle of economic crimes. The Ministry of Industry has taken a firm stance, declaring that entities involved in the trade of substandard products, including illegal manufacturers, smugglers, and retailers, will face full legal repercussions. Strict controls will be implemented across storefronts, back offices, and online platforms to ensure compliance.
Mr. Ekniti Romyanon, Secretary-General of the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), disclosed that over 150 items of “controlled goods” were legally destroyed following their seizure from various distribution points. Among the confiscated items were extension cords, sockets, irons, toasters, and LED light bulbs. Proper disposal methods were employed to prevent these items from re-entering the market, thereby reducing environmental impact. The initiative will extend to inspections at HomePro Nakhon Ratchasima, reinforcing the nationwide effort to curtail the spread of substandard products. Consumers are advised to verify the TIS mark and scan the QR code on products before purchase to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The Ministry’s crackdown commenced in the capital, enforcing strict storefront controls in Bangkok, where stores began the systematic destruction of confiscated items. The operation’s second phase targeted online platforms, with “Operation 11.11” successfully shutting down 7,293 illegal URL links on major platforms such as TikTok, Shopee, and Lazada.
The third phase of the operation focused on provincial cities, particularly Korat, where department stores, warehouses, and retail stores were scrutinized, leading to the destruction of 7,258 items worth 2,073,515 baht. The campaign will soon expand to additional provinces, maintaining the momentum of “prevent, suppress, and destroy” against counterfeit standard products.
The Ministry of Industry has delivered a clear message to businesses and consumers: Retailers must ensure the integrity of their product offerings, as selling substandard products constitutes public harm and will be met with legal action. Consumers are urged to prioritize safety by checking for the “TIS” mark and scanning the QR code when purchasing electrical appliances.
The Korat operation is not merely an isolated incident but a pivotal component of a comprehensive strategy to eradicate substandard products from the market, aiming to elevate consumer safety to a national priority.