Commerce orders supply and price checks in flood-hit areas
Thailand’s provincial commerce offices must monitor essential stocks and prices, coordinate deliveries and report transport problems in flood-hit areas
- The Commerce Minister has ordered agencies to monitor essential supplies and prices in areas affected by floods to prevent shortages and price gouging.
- Provincial commerce offices are responsible for monitoring local stock levels, coordinating with businesses for deliveries, and reporting on community needs.
- A hotline (1569) has been set up for the public to report unfair prices, hoarding, or shortages of goods.
- Officials will investigate complaints received through the hotline and take legal action against violators.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun has ordered commerce agencies to monitor essential supplies and prices in flood-affected areas, aiming to prevent shortages and keep goods affordable.
Suphajee said the Ministry of Commerce was closely monitoring heavy rain and flooding, directing relevant agencies and coordinating with businesses to deliver goods and essential supplies to affected communities.
Provincial offices to monitor stocks and coordinate deliveries
Provincial commerce offices nationwide have been instructed to closely monitor local conditions, including the availability and prices of essential consumer goods.
Provincial offices must also report which areas have been affected and what residents need, enabling the Ministry of Commerce to coordinate assistance and arrange deliveries quickly.
The Ministry of Commerce has used a similar approach during previous floods, with provincial offices coordinating with wholesalers, retailers and local businesses to replenish stocks. Under that approach, provincial offices report transport problems to the ministry when additional support is needed.
Report unfair prices, shortages and hoarding to 1569
Consumers who encounter unfair prices, shortages, hoarding or a failure to display prices can complain to the Department of Internal Trade hotline on 1569 or contact provincial commerce offices nationwide.
Officials will investigate complaints and take action under the law.
