Blue Flag fairs in Northeast offer relief to flood victims
The Commerce Ministry is organising Blue Flag fairs in northeastern provinces affected by the Podul and Kajiki storms, enabling low-income people and farmers to buy cheap consumer goods in order to help reduce the cost of living.
The director-general of the Department of Internal Trade (DIT), Wichai Phochanakit, said the impact from these storms in September had caused damage to people’s properties, while those affected by drought also faced a lot of trouble.
“The fair was first held at Muang Maha Sarakham District Office in Maha Sarakham province from December 5 to 8,” he said.
“We will hold the fair in three other provinces -- in Roi Et province from December 11 to 14 at the parking area in Robinson Lifestyle Roi Et, in Ubon Ratchathani province from December 16 to 19 at the parking area in Central Plaza Ubon Ratchathani, and in Buri Ram province from December 21 to 24 at Nong Paep Flea Market in Muang district.”
He further explained that this fair featured at least 250 shopping booths, operated by farmers, small entrepreneurs, community enterprises, and consumer products manufacturers.
“The consumer products will be specially discounted by 20-40 per cent. In addition, products which offer a special price include sugars, palm oils, chicken eggs, white shrimp, giant freshwater prawn, sea bass, pork and chicken,” he said.
He added that the department had also appointed Provincial Commerce Offices to monitor the distribution of goods to meet the people’s demands and sell at a fair price.
“If any entrepreneurs provide unfair prices or services, people can contact DIT Hotline: 1569 or the Provincial Commerce Offices nationwide,” he added.