BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Santi Piyatat, in his capacity as Chairman of the Consumer Protection Board, convened an emergency video conference with provincial governors to establish a coordinated framework to protect consumers from unfair trade practices, hoarding, and price gouging during the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The Minister stressed that the government will not allow global crises to be used for domestic exploitation and directed governors to prioritize monitoring fuel and essential goods.
To strengthen consumer rights, the government has introduced six urgent measures, starting with expanded emergency complaint channels. The Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) has added 10 hotline lines to ensure rapid response to public concerns. Authorities are also increasing business inspections nationwide, focusing on essentials such as bagged rice and cooking gas, and monitoring advertisements to prevent panic-buying. Additionally, the government is requiring businesses to offer multiple payment options, including cash, credit cards, and mobile transfers, to reduce risk in the event that digital or energy systems are disrupted.
The directive also addresses modern trade risks by promoting e-commerce security and increasing oversight of high-value markets. Consumers are advised to purchase items such as jewelry and investment services only through OCPB-registered direct marketing platforms to ensure fair dispute resolution. Oversight of the gold market will be strengthened, with stricter labeling requirements for gold ornaments to prevent exploitation during market volatility. The government is also launching public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about their rights regarding prices, quality, and standards, supporting informed, safe decision-making nationwide.
The Minister noted that fuel shortages are a primary concern, especially for the transport sector. He directed Provincial Governors, the Department of Internal Trade, and the OCPB to conduct thorough checks to prevent illegal stockpiling. By positioning governors as the frontline of consumer protection, the government aims to close regulatory gaps and ensure fair treatment for all Thai citizens during this period of uncertainty. (NNT)
