Bangkok: Santi Piyatat, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, has directed the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) to accelerate assistance for flood-affected citizens in the South, especially focusing on issues related to vehicle damages, including repair costs, service fees, loans, and online ordering assistance.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Piyatat has tasked Mr. Narong Poolpipat, Secretary-General of the CPB, with coordinating with various business operators to implement a series of relief measures. The first measure aims to assist online shoppers through Shopee by exempting delivery fees for purchases to Hat Yai District throughout December 2025, while also considering price reductions for numerous products such as home repair equipment, decorations, clothing, and underwear.
The second measure involves collaboration between the CPB and the President of the Insurance Central Garage Association, Mr. Suphakorn Leephattharakun, to support individuals affected by car damage due to floods. This includes free repair cost assessments, special discounts on spare parts, and strengthened support such as discounts on repair labor costs, extended warranty periods for repair quality, and spare parts guarantees.
The third measure focuses on aiding automobile and motorcycle leasing businesses. It includes a debt repayment suspension of up to six months, providing disaster victims with time to repair homes, revive businesses, and manage urgent expenses. Debt restructuring measures are also planned to reduce installment amounts and extend repayment periods, thus minimizing default risks and supporting economic recovery.
The fourth measure addresses airline passengers. The Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), alongside the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and ten airline companies and OTAs, is assisting consumers using airline services. Measures extend the validity period of airline tickets by 30-90 days, allow route changes in southern provinces, and offer free flight changes. Long-term plans involve the OCPB and CAAT developing price control criteria for online travel agency OTAs, with collaboration from the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (EDTA).
Moreover, the OCPB is urging business operators to comply with announcements from the Committee on Labels and the Committee on Contracts. In partnership with regional and local government agencies and the Damrongtham Center, the OCPB has visited business operators to ensure compliance with regulations. This includes urging used car dealerships to truthfully disclose vehicle histories, especially for flood-damaged vehicles, and requesting auto repair shops to provide detailed receipts to consumers.
After floodwaters recede, residential repairs using cost-effective construction materials, such as color-coated steel sheets, are encouraged. The CPB has been instructed to inspect labels on these materials to ensure accurate consumer information regarding type, quality, and specifications.